Six BC Conservative MLAs have left caucus since Kerry-Lynne Findlay became leader

Another BC Conservative MLA has quit the party's caucus to sit as an Independent, marking the sixth departure since Kerry-Lynne Findlay took over as leader.

Bruce Banman, the MLA for Abbotsford South, announced Thursday that he is leaving the BC Conservatives. In his statement, Banman said conversations with constituents following the leadership race influenced his decision. "Sadly, since the leadership race concluded, I am hearing from constituents and seeing with my own eyes the political tent needed to defeat the NDP getting smaller, not larger," he said.

Constituents have expressed concerns about Findlay's ability to lead the party to electoral success. "Person after person has come up to me and said our leader is unelectable," Banman said. With his departure, he joins a growing group of former Conservative MLAs now sitting as Independents in the legislature. "With a heavy heart, I am announcing today I am joining an ever-increasing number of MLAs to sit as an Independent MLA in the BC Legislature," he said, adding that he would encourage fellow MLAs "regardless of political affiliation" to do the same.

Banman's exit further shrinks the BC Conservative caucus and marks the latest upheaval for the party under Findlay's new leadership. According to research, five BC Conservative MLAs had left caucus since Findlay became leader, with two more resigning on Wednesday—meaning at least seven have now departed.