‘Hard to see a way for Rustad to continue’: poli-sci lecturer
A political science lecturer at the University of British Columbia says the turmoil inside the B.C. Conservatives has created an “unprecedented” situation in provincial politics.
“As of right now it’s not clear who is leading the Official Opposition in the legislature,” said Stewart Prest. “We don’t know where the story is going right now from here.”
Prest said leadership struggles in Canadian politics typically end with the leader stepping down “when the signals are this clear.”
“We have seen leaders drag their heels and refuse to see the writing on the wall,” he said. “They don’t have confidence in the party they hope to lead — their time has run out.”
He compared the situation to former prime minister Justin Trudeau’s departure earlier this year, noting Trudeau stepped down once it became clear he no longer had the support to continue.
“In that sense, Rustad’s decision not to resign is highly unusual,” Prest said.
“It’s hard to see a way for Rustad to continue.”
