In a significant twist just as the race to lead the British Columbia Conservative Party heats up, Peter Milobar has announced the departure of his long-time campaign manager Mark Werner. This development comes amid swirling controversy linked to a contentious website and promotional mail-out targeting former Conservative leader John Rustad and MLA Teresa Wat. Milobar’s campaign confirmed Werner’s exit on social media, citing a desire to focus on his family business.
Controversy Surrounds Leadership Race
Milobar’s campaign took a decisive turn when he issued a statement distancing himself from the controversial website, which was purportedly established to undermine Rustad and Wat. Following preliminary discussions, Milobar claimed that Werner had no prior knowledge of the website or the accompanying mail-out. “Let me be clear,” Milobar stated emphatically, “I would never stand for those political tactics, most specifically, the horrendous allegations against Teresa Wat.”
The backdrop to this controversy is further complicated by a recent fine imposed on B.C. United, which was penalised $4,500 by Elections B.C. for “transmitting a false statement to affect election results.” This fine relates to the misleading website, which was initially thought to have been created by disgruntled Conservative members. However, Elections B.C. has since revealed that B.C. United officials orchestrated the operation, employing the services of Alberta-based Sovereign North Strategies Inc. While the name of the campaign manager was not disclosed, it was revealed that Werner held this position at the time.
Milobar’s Response and Next Steps
In his Thursday announcement, Milobar clarified that he understood B.C. United suspended its campaign on August 28, 2024, coinciding with Werner’s termination. As a leading contender to succeed Rustad, the former mayor of Kamloops is now reviewing the events that transpired after that critical date, when Rustad and then-leader Kevin Falcon announced the dissolution of B.C. United amid dismal polling.
Rustad, who once led the Conservatives to a notable 44-seat victory in the 2024 general election, has publicly accused Falcon of “intentionally” sabotaging efforts to defeat the NDP through the controversial website. He described the situation as “incredibly Machiavellian,” asserting that the tactics employed may have suppressed voter turnout and ultimately cost the Conservatives their chance at victory.
Werner has maintained that he was not aware of the anti-Rustad website and has expressed frustration at not being contacted by Elections B.C., despite his contact details being publicly available. He reiterated that he severed ties with B.C. United the same day the campaign folded.
New Campaign Leadership
In light of these developments, Milobar has appointed Jeff Conaster to take over as campaign manager. As the race intensifies, candidates have until April 18 to sign up new members eligible to vote next month. Milobar remains a prominent candidate alongside contractor Warren Hamm, former B.C. Liberal cabinet minister Iain Black, ex-federal MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay, and commentator Caroline Elliott, who is notably related to Falcon.
Political observers are closely watching the implications of this late change in Milobar’s campaign team. UBC political science lecturer Stewart Prest suggested that this situation could favour Elliott, as Milobar has been seen as the champion of the moderate wing of the Conservatives. However, Prest warns that Milobar’s ties to Werner could raise questions about his judgement. “Milobar either looks hopelessly naive or duplicitous, given just how significant a role senior members of his campaign were playing in that effort to oust John Rustad,” he remarked.
Why it Matters
The unfolding narrative surrounding Milobar’s campaign is emblematic of the deeper fractures within the British Columbia Conservative Party. As candidates vie for leadership, the fallout from this controversy could have lasting ramifications for party unity and direction. The departure of Werner, coupled with the scrutiny of Milobar’s leadership decisions, raises critical questions about the party’s ability to present a cohesive front in the face of electoral challenges. With the leadership race entering its final phase, how Milobar navigates this turbulence will be pivotal not only for his own aspirations but for the future of the Conservatives in British Columbia.
