Businessman and philanthropist Yuri Fulmer has officially entered the race to become the next leader of the British Columbia Conservative Party. Fulmer, who previously ran as a federal Liberal candidate in 2015, announced his candidacy on April 9, 2026, positioning himself as a candidate focused on economic growth and fiscal responsibility.
In his campaign launch, Fulmer emphasized the need for the party to build a broad coalition to challenge the governing BC United and the opposition BC NDP. He stated his goal is to make the Conservatives a viable alternative for voters across the province, particularly those concerned with affordability and government spending.
The leadership contest comes as the B.C. Conservatives have seen a significant rise in popular support in recent opinion polls. The party will select its new leader at a convention scheduled for June 2026. Other declared candidates include former MP Randy White and former Surrey city councillor Laurie Guerra.
Fulmer's entry adds a high-profile candidate with substantial business and community experience to the race. The outcome will shape the party's direction ahead of the next provincial election, currently set for October 2026.
