A recent survey indicates that British Columbia Premier David Eby and his NDP administration are experiencing a significant decline in public support following the release of the province’s latest budget. The Innovative Research Group’s poll reveals that this budget has garnered the lowest approval ratings since former premier Gordon Campbell’s controversial budget in 2010, which included the now-defunct Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).
Budget’s Impact on Public Sentiment
The findings from the Innovative Research Group’s February survey suggest that the recent budget has severely damaged the NDP’s favourability under Premier Eby. Among those who engaged with the budget’s content, a staggering 67% reported a decreased opinion of the NDP government, leading to a net favourability rating that plummeted to -61—a dramatic drop of 43 points since March 2025. Only a mere 7% expressed a more favourable view of the government.
The budget has been described as “driving deeply negative expectations,” overshadowing other news related to Premier Eby and fostering a general sense of discontent among the populace. The poll also noted an alarming trend: the BC Conservatives appear to have established a clear lead in voter intentions, a shift that could have significant implications for the NDP as they approach the upcoming election cycle.
Broad Political Discontent
Greg Lyle, president of Innovative Research Group, highlighted that dissatisfaction with the budget transcends political lines. “It’s not just right-wing individuals who are upset; even those who identify with the New Democrats are voicing their disapproval,” Lyle stated. The survey revealed that 72% of respondents anticipate an increase in taxes, while over half believe that healthcare will deteriorate and job losses will mount as a result of the budget. Furthermore, 70% expect to encounter higher user fees in the near future.
Currently, just over half of those surveyed express dissatisfaction with the provincial government, with 60% indicating a desire for a change in leadership. Of this group, 12% are considered strong supporters of the NDP, suggesting a complex landscape for the party as it seeks to regain favour.
A Silver Lining for the NDP?
Despite the grim statistics, Lyle noted a potential silver lining for the NDP. “There remains a significant portion of the electorate that, while dissatisfied, considers the NDP to be the least undesirable option,” he remarked. This group reflects a sentiment that, although many are calling for a change in government, they still view the NDP as the best choice among alternatives.
Political analysts emphasise that navigating the current economic landscape is challenging for governments worldwide, not just in British Columbia. Hamish Telford, a political scientist with the University of the Fraser Valley, pointed out that the fiscal struggles are not unique to B.C., noting that provinces like Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec are all grappling with substantial deficits as well. “This is indicative of a broader structural problem rather than a failure of individual governance,” he explained.
Methodology of the Survey
The online survey was conducted between February 6 and March 3, utilising the Canada 20/20 national research panel, supplemented by additional responses from Lucid, a prominent online sample provider. The sample consisted of 991 British Columbians aged 18 and over, with results weighted to align with Statistics Canada’s Census data. Notably, questions specifically related to the budget were posed only during the latter half of the survey period.
Why it Matters
The fallout from this budget could have lasting ramifications for the NDP and its governance in British Columbia. With public sentiment leaning towards discontent and expectations of increased taxes and diminished services, the party must recalibrate its strategy to address these concerns. As the next election approaches, how the NDP responds to this backlash will be crucial in determining their political future in a province that appears increasingly receptive to alternative leadership.
