Brennan Day, the MLA representing Courtenay-Comox, has become the most recent member to resign from the B.C. Conservative caucus, making him the fifth to do so since Kerry Lynne-Findlay assumed leadership. Day expressed his lack of confidence in Findlay’s judgment and ethical standards, as well as her choice of individuals for key positions within the party.
Day criticized Findlay’s actions, labeling them as reckless and politically irresponsible, which led him to distance himself from the ongoing turmoil within the party. He announced his decision to sit in the legislature as an “Independent Conservative.”
This departure further complicates Findlay’s leadership, who previously claimed caucus unity while acknowledging the potential for more MLAs to leave. Teresa Wat, MLA for Richmond-Bridgeport, also recently announced her departure from the B.C. Conservative Party, opting to become an Independent due to Findlay’s alleged baseless accusations questioning her loyalty.
Despite Findlay’s disappointment over Wat’s decision, the latter emphasized the importance of her loyalty to Canada and her constituents, especially those from the Chinese diaspora. The ongoing exodus from the B.C. Conservative caucus includes Rosalyn Bird, Ian Paton, and Peter Milobar, who have all left the party to form a new political entity.
Since Findlay’s leadership appointment, the B.C. Conservatives have experienced significant staff turnover, including the departure of key executives. Wat’s political journey includes a transition from the B.C. Liberal and B.C. United parties to the B.C. Conservatives ahead of the 2024 provincial election. She has a longstanding career as an MLA, with notable positions in media and broadcasting before entering politics.