A former Peace River South MLA is returning to provincial politics, with Dawson Creek’s Mike Bernier named the new leader of CentreBC.
The party announced Saturday that Bernier will lead the newly formed party, which is positioning itself as an option for centrist voters who feel disconnected from both the B.C. NDP and B.C. Conservatives.
Bernier previously served as the B.C. Liberal MLA for Peace River South and was education minister under former premier Christy Clark.
In a statement released following the announcement at the B.C. legislature, Bernier said he decided to seek the leadership because he believes some voters are looking for a different choice.
“I am stepping up to this role because, like so many British Columbians, the two parties on offer do not represent my values,” Bernier said.
“I am excited to play a part in building a safer, more affordable and more prosperous B.C.”
CentreBC was created after the 2024 provincial election by former B.C. Liberal and B.C. United MLA Karin Kirkpatrick, who served as the party’s founding leader before stepping down in June.
The party said Bernier was selected through a leadership search conducted by its executive council.
Kirkpatrick introduced Bernier at Saturday’s announcement, highlighting his experience in government and his connection to communities across the province.
“Mike and I served together in the legislature. He leads with integrity, common sense and a genuine commitment to the people he serves,” Kirkpatrick said.
She said Bernier brings the experience and credibility the party believes it needs as it works to build support across B.C.
“Mike is the right person to lead CentreBC as we offer British Columbians a socially progressive, fiscally responsible alternative to the tired NDP government and the hard-right B.C. Conservatives,” Kirkpatrick said.
The governing NDP responded to Bernier’s appointment by criticizing his record during his time with the B.C. Liberals.
NDP MLA Darlene Rotchford said CentreBC’s new leader represents a continuation of policies her party opposes, pointing to decisions made by the former Liberal government.
“I’m sure some Conservative-leaning people who can’t stomach (B.C. Conservative Leader Kerry-Lynne) Findlay’s Trump-style approach will find a home with Centre-Right-BC,” Rotchford said in a statement.
She also accused Bernier and the former B.C. Liberals of cutting public services and contributing to affordability challenges.
Bernier’s appointment comes as CentreBC works to establish itself ahead of the next provincial election.
