B.C. Conservatives leave Penticton retreat united under new leader

The British Columbia Conservatives emerged from a two-day caucus retreat in Penticton projecting an image of unity and renewed purpose under their new leader, Kerry-Lynne Findlay. The gathering, held in a region long considered a conservative stronghold, aimed to solidify the party's strategy and momentum ahead of the fall legislative session.

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I am so proud of this caucus. I am so proud of their dedication, their intelligence. They are a great group.

Findlay expressed pride in her caucus, highlighting their commitment and intelligence. "I am so proud of this caucus. I am so proud of their dedication, their intelligence," Findlay told reporters. "They are a great group." The retreat marked the first official caucus meeting under her leadership, and the party presented a cohesive front, downplaying any internal differences.

"If there are any differences, they are very minor and we don’t need to agree 100 per cent on everything. What we need to agree on is most things," Findlay stated, addressing concerns about past infighting. The party leader stressed a commitment to action over mere promises, declaring, "We intend to deliver. We are people of action. That’s what the Conservative Party of BC will bring, not just promises, but action."

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If there are any differences, they are very minor and we don’t need to agree 100 per cent on everything. What we need to agree on is most things.

The shadow cabinet appointments also reflected a focus on the Okanagan region, with West Kelowna–Peachland MLA Macklin McCall named Official Opposition Whip. Kelowna Centre MLA Kristina Loewen retained her role as critic for prosperity and social development, and Kelowna-Mission MLA Gavin Dew expanded his responsibilities as critic for economic development. "The Okanagan and Kelowna specifically are well represented in our shadow cabinet, and the roles that we play fit together very well around some of the key issues in the region," Dew commented.

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We intend to deliver. We are people of action. That’s what the Conservative Party of BC will bring, not just promises, but action.

Findlay concluded by stating the party's ambition to be seen as the "government in waiting" for British Columbia, signaling their intent to form the next provincial government. The retreat appeared to energize the official opposition as they prepare for the legislature's return.

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The Okanagan and Kelowna specifically are well represented in our shadow cabinet, and the roles that we play fit together very well around some of the key issues in the region.