VICTORIA, April 10, 2025 – British Columbia’s political landscape shifted today with the official launch of CentreBC, a new centrist political party founded by former West Vancouver-Capilano MLA Karin Kirkpatrick. The launch took place outside the B.C. Legislature, as Kirkpatrick positioned the party as a response to the increasing polarization in provincial politics.
“Our team has heard from countless British Columbians… There is clear demand for a party focused on evidence-based policy, fiscal responsibility, and a balanced approach to governing,” Kirkpatrick said.
Criticizing the lack of viable political alternatives in the 2024 election, Kirkpatrick described voters as being stuck between “an ineffective, out-of-touch NDP government” and “BC Conservatives obsessed with importing Republican-style culture war issues and conspiracy theories.” She stated that CentreBC will focus on key issues such as housing, healthcare, and the cost of living, while promoting a strong private sector economy and investment in infrastructure.
CentreBC emerges as a new force following the collapse of the BC Liberal Party and divisions within the BC Conservatives. With the potential for five parties to contest the 2028 provincial election, Kirkpatrick highlighted the growing public support for a centrist option.
“We’ve already received significant interest from across the political spectrum,” she noted, revealing that over two dozen former and current elected officials have expressed interest in joining or running with CentreBC.
CentreBC received formal recognition from Elections BC in early April and plans to nominate candidates in all 93 ridings.