Could CentreBC reshape B.C.'s NDP-versus-opposition divide?

A new party led by former BC Liberal cabinet minister Mike Bernier is seeking to build support among British Columbians dissatisfied with both the governing NDP and the Conservative Party of B.C.

CentreBC, founded a little more than a year ago by former BC United MLA Karin Kirkpatrick, named Bernier its leader last week. Bernier, a former mayor of Dawson Creek, describes the party as socially progressive and fiscally responsible, and says it wants to offer voters a moderate choice without ideological purity tests.

The effort follows significant shifts in provincial opposition politics. The 2024 collapse of BC United helped the Conservatives become the main alternative to Premier David Eby's NDP, and the party came within three seats of government. Post-election infighting later reduced its caucus and preceded John Rustad's removal as leader.

Kerry-Lynne Findlay won the Conservative leadership May 30, defeating Caroline Elliott 51 per cent to 49 per cent after four rounds. Independent MLA Elenore Sturko, who was elected as a Conservative after previously sitting with BC United, says she cannot support the NDP but would not support the Conservatives under Findlay. Findlay did not respond to repeated interview requests.

Former premier Christy Clark said there may be room for a credible, economically focused centre-right alternative before the next election, though she said it was unclear whether CentreBC would fill that role. She criticized both the NDP government and the direction of the Conservatives under Findlay.

CentreBC faces the practical challenge of raising money and building a membership base. Elections BC records show the party received $44,252 in donations in 2025 and posted a surplus of just over $20,400. Conservative Party executive director Angelo Isidorou said building a new party without legislative seats is difficult, citing the Conservatives' own rise after John Rustad and then Bruce Banman joined the party.