OP/ED: Eby announces snap election for just 7 days after BC civic ballot
By Kyra Hoggan
Premier David Eby has called a snap election for Oct. 24, two years before his term was expected to end in 2028, and only seven days after British Columbians are set to go to the polls on Oct. 17. This comes two days after the resignation of BC Conservative leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay on Sunday. Findlay’s leadership lasted just four months, and the Conservative Party is said to be in disarray.
In answer to critics’ contention that this is a cynical attempt to subvert the democratic process by challenging right wing parties before they’ve had a chance to gear up for an election, Eby argues now is the time to elect a stronger majority with more power to protect residents from US President Donald Trump and his administration.
Other critics question the merit of two overlapping elections, claiming voter fatigue will skew the results.
Eby sent out a blanket email to people on his mailing list that reads as follows (verbatim):
“Donald Trump is coming after us.
“He’s going after our jobs and pushing up the cost of everything we buy. He’s made it clear he wants Canada, and BC, to be an extension of America. That’s a threat to our ability to make our own decisions, in our own country, for our own people.
“This is a defining moment for BC and for Canada. And British Columbians deserve a say in how we chart our future. So today I called an election for October 24.
“When Trump first came after us, British Columbians stood up. You stopped buying American goods. You bought local. Your government stood with you; we pulled US liquor off the shelves, and we’re working with the Prime Minister to hold the line.
“We have a plan to protect your job, keep costs down, and build an economy that doesn’t depend on the US.
“Our plan is making a difference. Housing costs are coming down, and good jobs are getting created. But there’s a lot more to do, and families are still feeling squeezed.
“This election is the chance many of you have been asking for: to put forward a bold plan to protect your health care, your family, and your job through this trade war and beyond.
“The conservative parties would take us the other way. They would cozy up to Trump, cut healthcare, and hike costs on working people.
“With Trump at our door, that’s a risk we can’t afford.
“So that’s the choice. Build BC strong, or turn us into America-junior.
“I know where you stand. Now I’m asking for your support to keep standing up for BC.
“Say hell no to Trump and his politics, and let’s build a stronger BC for all of us.
“Thank you”,
David
David Eby
Leader
BC’s New Democrats
What are your thoughts on BC residents having to go to the polls twice in one week? Please feel free to send a letter to the editor (including your name and contact information) too me – khoggan*telus*net
