By Chad Dashly | *The Current*
Right now, there isn’t a clear runaway favourite in the 2026 Conservative Party of British Columbia leadership race. But based on early polling, endorsements, and political positioning, three realistic front-runners are beginning to emerge.
The party officially approved nine candidates to run in the contest: Bruce Banman, Harman Bhangu, Iain Black, Caroline Elliott, Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Yuri Fulmer, Warren Hamm, Darrell Jones, and Peter Milobar. The leadership vote is expected to take place on May 30, 2026, following the spring legislative session.
With such a large field, the race remains fluid. Leadership contests often evolve quickly, especially as candidates begin signing new members and building campaign organizations across the province. But even in these early stages, a few contenders appear to be separating themselves from the pack.
Darrell Jones has emerged as one of the most talked-about candidates in the race. As the former president of Save-On-Foods, Jones brings a strong private-sector background and has framed his campaign around the idea of executive leadership and fiscal discipline. His pitch is simple: British Columbia needs the kind of management and accountability that successful businesses require.
That message may resonate with voters frustrated by government spending and bureaucracy. Early polling suggests Jones has the highest vote consideration among the candidates, hovering around 25 percent. His business credentials could also help him attract donors and support from the province’s business community.
But Jones also faces a challenge common to outsider candidates. He lacks legislative experience and must build a strong grassroots organization quickly if he hopes to translate interest into actual votes.
Peter Milobar represents a very different path to leadership. The Kamloops MLA and former mayor offers experience inside the political system and has built strong relationships within the Conservative caucus. Several MLAs have already endorsed him, giving his campaign credibility within the party establishment.
Milobar’s supporters argue that governing requires not just ideas but an understanding of how government actually works. That experience could appeal to members looking for stability and discipline.
At the same time, his more moderate profile may not generate the same enthusiasm among activist members who are looking for a more confrontational conservative voice.
Then there is Kerry-Lynne Findlay, whose candidacy introduces a national dimension to the race. A former federal cabinet minister, Findlay brings deep connections to Canada’s broader conservative movement and significant experience in national politics.
Her relationships within federal Conservative circles could translate into strong fundraising and campaign infrastructure. However, not currently holding a seat in the provincial legislature may make it harder for her to build momentum within the party’s grassroots base.
Beyond the leading trio, several candidates could still influence the outcome of the race. Caroline Elliott has developed support among ideological conservatives, while Bruce Banman appeals to a more populist wing of the party. Meanwhile, Iain Black and Yuri Fulmer bring business experience that could resonate with members looking for economic credibility.
Leadership contests often produce surprises, particularly when voting systems involve ranked ballots or multiple rounds of counting. In those scenarios, the candidate who is the most broadly acceptable to members can sometimes win even without leading in first-choice support.
If the leadership vote were held today, Peter Milobar might have a slight edge due to his caucus support and organizational strength. But Darrell Jones may have the most upside if his campaign gains momentum and successfully mobilizes members seeking an outsider.
In truth, the race is still wide open. Over the next several weeks, the candidate who signs the most members and builds the strongest grassroots network will likely determine who ultimately leads the Conservative Party of British Columbia into its next political chapter.
