Abbotsford-Mission MLA Reann Gasper to step down for Conservative Leader Hon. Kerry-Lynne Findlay to run in a by-election

Deputy Whip and MLA Reann Gasper has informed the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia of her decision to step down as MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, creating an opportunity for Conservative Party of British Columbia Leader Hon. Kerry-Lynne Findlay to seek the seat in a forthcoming by-election.

Gasper said the decision was made carefully and deliberately, with the future of British Columbia firmly in mind.

Abbotsford-Mission MLA Reann Gasper

“This is a decision I have made after a great deal of careful consideration, and I believe it is the right decision for me, for our Party, and for the work ahead,” said MLA Gasper. “It has been a privilege to represent the people of Abbotsford-Mission, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who placed their trust in me. I am also grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside my colleagues in the Conservative Caucus and to contribute to our leadership team.”

“I have confidence in Kerry-Lynne, in her leadership, and in her ability to represent Abbotsford-Mission. I believe that giving our Leader the opportunity to seek this seat strengthens our team and puts us in a stronger position for the work ahead.”

“Ultimately, we have a bigger objective: We need to defeat the NDP and form government. That requires us to make decisions that put the strength of our team and our ability to win first. I believe this is one of those decisions.”

“I encourage our members, volunteers, and supporters to stand behind Kerry-Lynne Findlay as she leads the Conservative Party of British Columbia with determination, and an optimistic vision for our province. I remain committed to our Party and to the work ahead, and I look forward to continuing to contribute in whatever way I can.”

Conservative Party of British Columbia Leader Hon. Kerry-Lynne Findlay thanked Gasper for her service to Abbotsford-Mission and her contributions to the Conservative Caucus.

“I want to thank Reann for her service to the people of Abbotsford-Mission and for the significant contributions she has made to our Caucus and our Party,” said Findlay.

“Throughout her time in office, and especially in her ongoing role as Deputy Whip, Reann has been a valued member of our leadership team and a strong advocate for her constituents and our shared principles. I am grateful for the confidence Reann has placed in me and honoured by the opportunity she is creating for me to seek the nomination in Abbotsford-Mission.”

“Reann has made a thoughtful decision that puts the interests of our Party, our province, and our shared goal of forming government first. I look forward to working closely with our members and volunteers as we prepare for the by-election.”

“Our focus is clear. We need to earn the trust of the people of Abbotsford-Mission, strengthen our team, and build the momentum we need to defeat the NDP and form a strong, common-sense government for British Columbia.”

Gasper will continue to work closely with Findlay and the Conservative Caucus in the months ahead and remains committed to supporting the Party's efforts to defeat the NDP, form government, and build a brighter future for British Columbia.