A Shift in Legislative Dynamics
Peter Milobar, the MLA for Kamloops Centre, announced his resignation from the British Columbia Conservative caucus on Friday, August 14, 2026. This departure marks a significant moment for the provincial party, which has seen considerable turnover since the 2024 election. Milobar, who previously served as a finance critic, stated that his decision to sit as an Independent was driven by a fundamental misalignment with the party’s current trajectory under the leadership of Kerry-Lynne Findlay.
Ideological Friction
The rift between Milobar and Findlay has been evident since the party’s leadership contest in May 2026, where Findlay secured victory on the fourth ballot. Milobar, who finished last in that contest with 11.4 percent of the vote, cited an “ideological clash” as the primary reason for his departure. The tension was exacerbated during the leadership campaign, when Findlay raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest regarding Milobar’s wife, who is Indigenous and has worked for the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation.
While both figures initially attempted to maintain a professional working relationship, with Milobar continuing in his role as finance critic, the underlying ideological friction proved insurmountable. Milobar emphasized that while he respects the membership’s choice in electing Findlay, he can no longer support the “new direction” the party is taking under her leadership, which has been characterized by a sharp move to the right.
A Pattern of Instability
Milobar’s exit makes him the seventh MLA to either resign or be removed from the Conservative caucus since the 2024 provincial election. The caucus has faced persistent instability, with a series of departures linked to various controversies, including disciplinary ejections and resignations in solidarity. Notable past departures include MLAs Elenore Sturko, Dallas Brodie, and Tara Armstrong. Furthermore, the party has dealt with significant internal upheaval, including the turnover of most caucus and party staff, as well as reports of leaked communications involving the leadership.
As of now, the party has not provided an immediate official response regarding the impact of Milobar’s resignation on its legislative strategy. The departure of a veteran politician—who previously served as the mayor of Kamloops from 2008 to 2017 and was originally elected as a BC Liberal—further complicates the Conservative Party’s efforts to consolidate power in the legislature.