Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko ousted from B.C. Conservative caucus, denies plotting against leadership, vows to keep serving constituents.
Sturko Shocked by Sudden Removal from B.C. Conservative Caucus
In a stunning turn of events Monday evening, Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko revealed she was “absolutely blindsided” when she was removed from the B.C. Conservative caucus. The decision was confirmed by caucus chair Jody Toor shortly after a leadership review of party leader John Rustad, though no official reason for her ousting was given.
Speaking to reporters outside the B.C. Legislature in Victoria, Sturko remained determined to serve her constituents. “My office will be open to handle their concerns, and I’ll find a path forward, whatever that looks like,” she said.
Leadership Accusations Denied
Sturko, who previously served as the party’s outspoken public safety critic, was accused by Rustad of plotting against his leadership—a claim she firmly denies. While she admitted discussing the leadership review with fellow MLAs, she insisted she was not orchestrating any moves against Rustad.
She also suggested Rustad may have feared she would raise questions about the review. “If he was worried about that coming forward, there are other people in that room who will be asking those questions, I’m sure,” she said.
Calls for Rustad to Step Down
The former public safety critic didn’t hold back in calling for Rustad’s resignation. She argued that her former caucus colleagues should pressure him, claiming he has failed to effectively lead the party. “I think there are people from all parts of the right of centre who would like to see John Rustad resign today,” she said.
Despite the ousting, Rustad earlier defended his position, saying 71% of party members had reaffirmed his leadership in a recent review. Of the 1,268 members who voted, Rustad secured backing in 78 of 93 ridings.
Party Turmoil Continues
Sturko plans to sit as an independent, expressing a “deep sense of hurt” over her removal. She has long worked to bridge the gap between socially liberal and fiscally conservative voters, a balance she says she will continue to champion.
The B.C. Conservative Party has faced ongoing controversies under Rustad. Earlier this year, three caucus members either left or were removed, including Dallas Brodie, who was expelled for mocking residential school survivors’ testimony. Tara Armstrong and Jordan Kealy later defected, with Brodie and Armstrong forming a new party.
Rustad’s leadership came close to propelling the Conservatives to victory in the October provincial election, capturing 44 of 93 seats, but internal strife has cast a shadow over the party’s future.
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