Several politicians have announced their plans to run for the BC Liberal leader position.
Most notable candidates include former Conservative MP and Mayor of Surrey Dianne Watts, former Vancouver Mayor and current MLA for Vancouver-False Creek Sam Sullivan, former Education Minister and current MLA for Peace River South Mike Bernier, and former Advanced Education Minister and current MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena Andrew Wilkinson.
I am running to be leader of the @bcliberals . It is time for a new vision and new voice for BC #BCLib18 #bcpoli https://t.co/wNOq2r3DWw
— Dianne Watts (@DianneLWatts) September 24, 2017
Local MLA Shirley Bond believes this ballot will be an exciting one.
“I know this, I’m looking forward to by supporting the new leader of our party. We certainly now have a job to do as the official opposition, but ultimately our goal is to restore our position of government in British Columbia and having a new leader will be critical to that.”
As a member of the Liberal party executive, Bond says cannot endorse any of the candidates who’ve thrown their hat into the ring.
Regardless of who wins the election, she hopes the new leader will understand the needs of Northern and rural BC.
“Looking at how we can continue to grow the economy and create jobs, all of those things that are core fundamental principles of our party. I certainly encourage people to hear those candidates and look at who might be best to lead our party into the future.”
Prince George is also slated to host a leaders’ debate later this year according to Bond, but no official dates have been released.
Applications will be accepted up until the middle of December, with the voting taking place in February.
Christy Clark stepped down as Leader of the Liberals on August 4th.
Today's BC Liberals are excited to announce the first debate of #BCLIB18 To register visit: https://t.co/u4D1KScRxF pic.twitter.com/fdeeuTKAzM
— Today's BC Liberals (@bcliberals) September 20, 2017