Seven candidates still in B.C. Conservative leadership race after two MLAs drop out

VICTORIA — The number of candidates running for the leadership of the British Columbia Conservatives has shrunk to seven.

Bruce Banman and Harman Bhangu, both members of the provincial legislature, have dropped out of the race.

Banman says he is endorsing candidate Yuri Fulmer because the entrepreneur is the only candidate with a “proven track record” in the private sector, who knows how to kick-start the economy.

Bhangu has thrown his support behind Caroline Elliott, saying he agrees with her ideas about “common sense” in schools, prosperity for working families and respect for private property.

Also still running are contractor Warren Hamm, former Save-on-Foods executive Darrell Jones, and current MLA Peter Milobar, who is now the only sitting legislator vying for the leadership of the official Opposition.

Milobar says on social media that he is the only candidate, who “would win a strong, clear” majority government, pointing to recent polling.

The other candidates still in the race are former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister Iain Black and former federal MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay.

The remaining candidates must pay $40,000 by April 1, then another $60,000 on or before April 18, to remain in the race, with the leader to be announced on May 30.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 16, 2026.

Wolfgang Depner, The Canadian Press