David Eby Instructs NDP to Be Ready for the Election

British Columbia Premier David Eby says he has told NDP legislators to be “election ready” amid the disruption caused by the ongoing trade war with the United States.

Eby said Cheryl Oates, his former acting chief of staff, will manage the NDP’s campaign for the next provincial election whenever it is called. However, he did not announce any date for the vote.

The premier said he has informed both Elections B.C. and the NDP caucus that they need to be prepared for an election. His comments come as the Opposition B.C. Conservatives face internal changes, with nine members having left the party and Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay running in a byelection later this month.

Eby said his government currently holds a one-seat majority following the death of NDP MLA Joan Phillip, while two other NDP legislators are undergoing cancer treatment.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the government’s majority, Eby said his focus remains on the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada. He said British Columbians should have a say amid what he described as “incredible disruption.”