SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — British Columbia Elections

Honourable senators, October has been an extraordinary month in politics for British Columbians. On October 17, voters across the province cast their ballots in cities, towns and villages to elect their mayors and councillors, school board trustees and park board commissioners. Then, just one week later, they returned to polling stations in every electoral district to choose their members of the Legislative Assembly.

The municipal contests brought a wave of notable changes, including the introduction of fresh faces to council as well as setting an unmistakable tone. It made many people wonder whether that momentum of change would carry over into the provincial election the very next week. Beyond my expectations, what a change it was.

British Columbians voted decisively for political renewal, handing the B.C. Conservatives a definitive majority government under the steady, unifying leadership of Premier-elect Lorne Doerkson.

The geographic shift of this election was historic. The Conservative Party of British Columbia achieved sweeping electoral gains by breaking deep into the Lower Mainland and Metro Vancouver, flipping critical urban and suburban ridings. In short, voters embraced a fresh vision.

My sincere congratulations go to Premier-elect Lorne Doerkson and all the newly elected and returning provincial and municipal officials across British Columbia. I wish them every success as they take on the vital responsibility of serving their communities.

I also extend my thanks to Premier David Eby and outgoing officials for their public service. To every candidate who put their name forward, regardless of the outcome, thank you for your willingness to serve.

I want to extend a special note of pride to my former Senate staffer, Matthew Sebastiani, who was elected to his first term on Coquitlam City Council.

In his victory speech, Premier-elect Doerkson captured the heart of this moment when he said, “I want our sons and daughters to grow up in a B.C. that is the envy of the world.”

That is a hope I deeply share. It resonates profoundly for me as a mother, especially when thinking of my daughter, born and raised in Vancouver, who loves her city just as much as I do.

The elections are behind us, but the meaningful work ahead has only just begun. I look forward to working with leaders at every level of government to build a stronger British Columbia today and long into the future.