Former MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay elected leader of BC Conservatives

The BC Conservative Party has elected former federal Conservative MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay as its new leader following a closely contested leadership race.

According to results released by the party, Findlay secured 51 per cent of the vote, narrowly defeating Caroline Elliott, who received 49 per cent.

Findlay brings extensive political experience to the role. She served as a cabinet minister in former prime minister Stephen Harper’s government and most recently held the position of Opposition Whip under federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

The leadership change comes as the BC Conservatives seek to build on growing public support amid ongoing political competition with Premier David Eby’s NDP government.

Findlay does not currently hold a seat in the British Columbia legislature. However, her husband, Brent Chapman, is the Conservative MLA for Surrey South. Findlay has indicated she intends to seek a seat in the legislature through a future byelection.