B.C.’s Conservative Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing Abbotsford-Mission has announced her resignation. In response, Conservative Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay has expressed her intention to run in the upcoming byelection for the vacant seat. Reann Gasper, the deputy whip of the B.C. Conservatives, stated in a joint announcement with Findlay that the decision to step down was carefully considered. Gasper, a licensed real estate agent and a first-time MLA elected in 2024, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the constituents of Abbotsford-Mission.
Findlay, who emerged victorious in the B.C. Conservative leadership contest in May, currently does not hold a legislative seat. Gasper conveyed her confidence in Findlay’s capability to represent their constituency effectively. She emphasized that empowering their leader to contest the seat would bolster the team and position them strongly for future endeavors. Gasper clarified in a social media post that the decision to resign was entirely hers.
Acknowledging Gasper’s contribution, Findlay underscored the party’s primary goals of gaining the trust of Abbotsford-Mission residents, reinforcing their team, and mobilizing support to challenge the NDP and establish a practical government for British Columbia. Gasper is set to collaborate with the Conservative caucus in the coming months. Notably, she made history by becoming the first Black woman elected as a B.C. MLA since the 1980s. Elections B.C. mandates that a byelection must be conducted within six months of a legislative seat becoming vacant.
