British Columbia MLA Amelia Boultbee, who was first elected as a B.C. Conservative before later joining the provincial NDP, has announced that she will not seek re-election in the upcoming provincial election.
Boultbee, who represents Penticton-Summerland, said she was stepping aside because she could not marshal the resources needed to mount what she considered a fair campaign for the NDP in the riding. The B.C. election is scheduled for October 24, 2026.
Boultbee was elected in 2024 as a member of the B.C. Conservative Party. She left the Conservative caucus in October 2025 over what she described as ideological differences and subsequently sat as an Independent. In July 2026, she joined Premier David Eby’s B.C. NDP caucus.
Her decision to cross the floor increased the NDP caucus to 48 members, strengthening Eby’s parliamentary majority. However, the move also generated criticism from some constituents, according to reports.
In announcing her decision not to run, Boultbee said the floor-crossing had carried significant personal, professional and political consequences. She also said she would have preferred to continue serving as an MLA but believed stepping aside was the appropriate decision under the circumstances.
Boultbee pointed to her experience during the Bald Range wildfire as part of her reasoning for joining the NDP, saying she was able to access additional resources and experienced staff to support her community during the emergency. The wildfire forced thousands of people to evacuate from Summerland and surrounding areas in August.
Her departure adds to a growing list of B.C. NDP legislators who have announced they will not seek another term in the October election.
The development also comes during significant changes within the B.C. Conservative Party, including leadership turmoil and the departure of numerous MLAs from its caucus.
Boultbee’s decision means Penticton-Summerland will have a new MLA after the October election, as candidates prepare to compete for the seat.
Swifteradio.com
