Title: West Kelowna Candidate Johnston Continues Political Ascent as Unaffiliated Candidate
Byline: Senior Correspondent, Black Press Media
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In a political twist, Stephen Johnston, a former candidate for West Kelowna BC United, has decided to forge ahead independently in the upcoming provincial election, remaining unaffiliated. Johnston, who is also a current West Kelowna City Councillor and former MLA candidate, has faced a challenging path following the dissolution of the BC United campaign by its leader, Kevin Falcon.
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The move by Johnston to continue his political journey as an unaffiliated candidate comes after BC United’s unexpected decision to withdraw from the provincial election. The party’s leader, Falcon, cited the intention to prevent vote splitting among center-right and right-leaning voters, thereby aiming to thwart the re-election of the left-leaning NDP. In a surprising turn, Falcon also offered some BC United candidates the chance to replace Conservative candidates in their respective ridings.
Despite the hope that Johnston might receive an invitation to join the BC Conservatives, his phone remained silent after eight days. I’ve chosen to remain hopeful that I’ll get a tap on the shoulder, Johnston expressed, But it has been radio silence.
In a press conference on August 28, Falcon explained the rationale behind the suspension of the BC United campaign. However, Johnston was left out of the conversation, as his potential replacement in the Conservative party was not addressed.
Johnston took to social media to announce his decision, stating, I will continue to serve as a candidate here in this upcoming election. I have been respectful of the gravity of this situation and the time needed to make these decisions, but at this juncture, I need to make a decision. My commitment to this riding has always been unwavering, and that has not changed. This has always been my home, these are my people.
Johnston’s decision to proceed as an unaffiliated candidate marks him as the second Central Okanagan former BC United candidate to declare their intention to run independently. His commitment to the West Kelowna-Peachland riding in Victoria remains steadfast, as he seeks to represent the interests of the constituents in the upcoming provincial election.
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The political landscape in BC continues to evolve, with Johnston’s move signaling a new chapter in his political career. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the political dynamics in the province. One thing is clear, however; Stephen Johnston is determined to carry on his campaign, unswayed by the recent changes within the BC United party.
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