BC United Leader Kevin Falcon announced his party's suspension from the provincial election on Wednesday, Aug. 28. 

The following day, Falcon and BC Conservative Leader John Rustad promised to work together during a news conference in Vancouver. 

"In cooperation with John Rustad, we (BC United) will work together to assemble the best possible team of MLAs and candidates to conserve the best interests of British Columbians," Falcon said. 

Rustad echoed Falcon's comments.

"This will be a process," he said. "We have committed to... working with the BC United party to make sure that we put the best field forward that we can to bring an end to the destructive policies of (Premier) David Eby and David Eby's government." 

The decision is a gamble, says Dr. Leanne Smythe, assistant professor at Trinity Western University's political studies program. 

"Kevin Falcon is taking a risk but so is John Rustad with this decision. My top political issue is if the conservative candidates, not just the leader, will accept the BC United candidates into their fold willingly. And actually have a strong show of unity," she said. 

"If they can't have a strong show of unity, this will all be for naught." 

Smythe also referred to the unknown of whether a conservative candidate will take priority over BC United one, noting a situation the parties may face is BC United candidates opting to run as independents in riding with a candidate from each party. 

"What happens if the BC United nominee is actually better qualified than the conservative one? Are they willing to put aside the politics of all the people that want to represent that race and choose someone from outside the conservative party who's the better candidate?" Smythe questioned. 

She noted that the list of political problems that could arise is a long one. 

"The potential for drama is huge, and it will take a very strong hand and a good vision casting to keep everyone on the same page," Smythe said. 

The move comes with BC United in third or fourth place in many polls and the Conservatives within single-digits of the governing BC NDP. But B.C.'s first-past-the-post electoral system raises the possibility of a split on the right side of the political spectrum. Falcon cited this possibility as a motivating factor behind the decision. 

Smythe said the decision by Falcon is an important legacy move for him, whether the conservatives win or not. 

"If he were to run in this election and be decimated, his political career would be over and his legacy would be one that refused to put ego aside." 

Regarding party funds, according to Elections BC, the Election Act does not require a party to return a donation to a donor if the donor asks for it back. 

Karen Long, BC United candidate for the 91原创-Abbotsford riding (which includes much of the 91原创 Township, Aldergrove, and western Abbotsford) did not confirm yet what this means for her, but shared her thanks with the local community she is running for in an email to The Star.

"I've been a volunteer and community leader in 91原创-Abbotsford for 25+ years, it's what brings me great joy and purpose. I remain deeply committed to finding ways to continue to make positive impacts in our community." 

The BC Conservative candidate is Harman Bhangu, and NDP candidate John Aldag. 

Black Press Media reached out to BC United candidate Barb Martens in 91原创-Walnut Grove for comment. 

The BC Conservative candidate in Walnut Grove is Misty vanPopta, and NDP incumbent Megan Dykeman.

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