Lorne Doerkson Leads BC Conservatives to Landslide Victory
Lorne Doerkson and the BC Conservative Party won a majority government in a snap election, ending nine years of NDP rule and forcing Premier David Eby's resignation.
The Conservative Party of British Columbia won a landslide majority in the October 24, 2026, provincial snap election, securing approximately 63 to 64 of the 93 legislative seats. This victory marks the first time the party has held the premiership since 1928. Lorne Doerkson, who assumed interim leadership on September 20, is now the premier-designate.
Outgoing Premier David Eby conceded the election and resigned as leader of the BC NDP, accepting full responsibility for the defeat. Eby had called the snap election on September 22, citing a stalled legislature and challenges from U.S. President Donald Trump, but later admitted the move frustrated voters. The BC NDP is projected to hold 27 to 29 seats, while the BC Green Party, led by Emily Lowan, retained two seats.
Doerkson has outlined immediate priorities for his first 100 days, including an independent review of the province's $14 billion deficit, an expert commission to address emergency room closures, and raising the basic personal tax exemption to $32,000. His economic platform focuses on doubling liquefied natural gas production by 2032, cutting red tape, and replacing the carbon tax framework. He also pledged to repeal the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, a move described as sacrosanct by First Nations leaders.
Prime Minister Mark Carney congratulated Doerkson and expressed a desire to collaborate on housing and energy goals. Official certification of the results is expected by November 18, after which oath ceremonies for the new members will occur.
