Rustad Slams Eby’s Bloated, Expensive Government: “42 Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries – A Political Payroll to Protect His Job”

Instead of fixing the housing crisis or cracking down on the crime that is terrorizing communities, Eby is spending taxpayer money to keep his caucus loyal and distracted. If he wants to buy their loyalty, he should use his own wallet—not yours.” — John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia

Conservative Party of British Columbia Leader John Rustad is blasting Premier David Eby for turning 42 of his 47 BC NDP MLAs into cabinet ministers or parliamentary secretaries—a move Rustad calls “a taxpayer-funded loyalty program for a premier desperate to cling to power.”

“At a time when families are struggling under David Eby’s tax on everything, when crime is spiraling out of control, and housing is increasingly out of reach, the Premier’s priority is padding his political payroll with fake titles and pay raises for his MLAs,” Rustad said. “This bloated, expensive government isn’t designed to serve the people—it’s designed to serve David Eby’s political survival.”

Rustad linked this move to Eby’s near loss in last year’s election, which many viewed as unlosable for the NDP. “Instead of fixing the housing crisis or cracking down on the crime that is terrorizing communities, Eby is spending taxpayer money to keep his caucus loyal and distracted. If he wants to buy their loyalty, he should use his own wallet—not yours.”

The expanded cabinet means higher costs for British Columbians already suffering under the strain of Eby’s carbon tax, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and housing failures.

“British Columbians didn’t vote for a political patronage program to rubber-stamp David Eby’s agenda of failure. They voted for solutions—solutions Eby and his team have shown they are unwilling or unable to deliver,” Rustad said.

Rustad pointed out that under the Conservative Party’s vision, British Columbians would see a leaner government that prioritizes affordability, safety, and prosperity.

“Our plan will axe the carbon tax, reduce car insurance rates, and make housing affordable again,” Rustad said. “We won’t waste taxpayer dollars on inflated job titles or political vanity projects. We’ll build homes, end tent cities, and restore safety to our streets. The contrast couldn’t be clearer.”

Rustad concluded with a call for accountability and a government focused on the needs of British Columbians. “This province can’t afford Eby’s bloated government or his bloated ego. The people deserve leadership that puts them first—not last.”