B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad is under fire for his handling of the departure of Penticton-Summerland MLA Amelia Boultbee. Boultbee’s exit marks the fifth MLA to leave or be ousted from the Official Opposition in the past year.
During a press briefing, Rustad raised concerns about Boultbee’s positions on various matters and alluded to her well-being, including mentioning her emotional state. When questioned directly about mental health, Rustad expressed worries based on reports from staff about Boultbee’s confusion and emotional state.
Rustad indicated that discussions were ongoing with staff regarding the possibility of Boultbee taking a leave of absence. In response, Boultbee disclosed that she had previously sought mental health support during her role as the party’s critic for the Ministry of Children and Family Development, characterizing Rustad’s comments as an attempt to discredit her.
Rustad later refuted claims that he specifically referenced Boultbee’s mental health, emphasizing that support was being provided and concerns were being addressed. He defended his remarks, stating that emotional reactions are normal and not exclusive to any gender.
The controversy surrounding Boultbee’s departure has sparked criticism from various quarters, including former party leader Trevor Bolin, who expressed disappointment at Rustad’s handling of the situation. Bolin suggested that Rustad should step down due to waning support within the party.
Conservative MLA Brennan Day also condemned the situation, highlighting the negative impact of politicizing or downplaying health issues. Day declined interview requests following his social media post.
Amidst the internal strife, NDP ministers, including Attorney General Niki Sharma, condemned Rustad’s leadership style and called for an apology. The discord within the party coincides with a recent poll by Abacus Data showing the NDP leading in voter support over the B.C. Conservatives.
Despite the challenges, Rustad remains confident in his party’s standing and dismissed concerns about potential electoral outcomes. The B.C. Conservatives have seen a significant drop in MLAs, with two forming a new party earlier in the year, and others choosing to sit as Independents.
