MIKE RIGGS -- The candidates who win are the ones who can hold both sides without losing control of the message

If you step back and look at the BC Conservative leadership race, which begin 81 days ago on January 16th, the real difference is not experience, it is approach.

Caroline Elliott understands where voters are right now. People are tired of being managed, talked down to, and boxed into rigid policy frameworks. They want someone who reflects their concerns but can still operate in the real world.

That is where she separates from someone like Kerry-Lynne Findlay.

Findlay represents a more traditional style of politics. She brings experience, but also a more controlled and cautious approach that can feel rigid at a time when voters want responsiveness and adaptability.

Elliott is positioning herself differently. She leans more socially conservative in tone, which connects with a base that feels ignored, but she is also showing a willingness to be pragmatic. That balance is what actually wins elections.

If you are too rigid, you stall out. If you are too soft, you lose your base. The candidates who win are the ones who can hold both sides without losing control of the message. Elliott is doing that better right now.

On the debate issue, this has been overblown. Missing a single debate does not define leadership. 

Campaigns are about managing message, timing, and exposure. When you are already a front-runner, there is often more risk than reward in stepping into a setting where opponents are looking for a moment at your expense.

There are many examples in politics where leading candidates limit those situations because protecting momentum matters more than scoring points in one event.

Voters do not make decisions based on one debate. They decide based on who reflects their concerns, who feels authentic, and who looks capable of forming government.

Right now, Elliott is checking more of those boxes.

This race is not about who has the longest resume. It is about who can connect with people, adapt to the moment, and actually win.

One thing is clear, in this climate.  A candidate who balances principle with pragmatism is going to outperform one who leans too heavily on structure and caution.


Mike Riggs ... is a contractor, and the father of two disabled daughters. He values hard work, real world perspective, and speaking common sense.


NOTE:

• Deadline to become a member, to be eligible to vote in the leadership race, is April 18th
  
  
• Voting begins after May 9th
  
  
• The new leader of the Conservatives will be announced on May 30th