BC leaders debate economy and Indigenous rights ahead of election

British Columbia NDP Leader David Eby repeatedly acknowledged his government's imperfections during the only televised leaders' debate ahead of the Oct. 24 provincial election. The debate, held in Vancouver on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, featured Eby, BC Conservative interim Leader Lorne Doerkson, and BC Green Party Leader Emily Lowan.

Economic Record and Deficit

The discussion frequently returned to the province's economy and its record deficit of $14 billion. Eby stated he would never seek to balance the budget "on the backs of British Columbians." He referenced previous BC Liberal administrations, saying their "so-called balanced budgets" came at the expense of school land being sold off. Instead, Eby said he is focused on growing the economy and addressing wasteful spending.

Doerkson criticized Eby's economic management, noting that the NDP had "promised a $7-billion deficit just a few years ago" and that it is now at $14 billion. Doerkson said his party would "supercharge" the provincial economy without raising existing taxes or introducing new ones. He promised to cut taxes and bureaucratic bloat while fully funding public health care. Doerkson told reporters he was committed to releasing a fully costed-out platform before residents have the opportunity to vote.

Lowan said it was "staggering" that 1.2 million British Columbians do not have access to a family doctor. She accused the NDP of having a record "marred with broken promises." The Green Party released its costed platform on Tuesday, promising new initiatives in health care and education worth almost $9.3 billion per year over the next two fiscal years. Lowan said her party launched a tax on BC's ultra wealthy and mega corporations, which would generate $22.2 billion in its first year and around $5.4 billion in subsequent years.

Indigenous Rights and DRIPA

The leaders revealed major differences in their approaches to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). Moderator Shachi Kurl raised concerns about the act's impact and fears over private property rights.

Eby said there had been "challenging" court rulings related to Indigenous rights, which the government is appealing. He argued the only path forward is in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, stating, "We cannot afford to have major projects tied up in the court."

Doerkson said he was committed to repealing DRIPA, arguing it had created division. "It has to be repealed," he said. Lowan said the Greens take advice from First Nations leaders, who have been "unequivocal" about the need to implement DRIPA. She called Doerkson's conclusion that the province is "at odds" as a result of DRIPA "ridiculous."

Other Parties and Campaign Issues

The debate began with a dispute over Doerkson's campaign director, Katy Merrifield. Eby asked why Doerkson had not removed her over online posts about Islam that Eby likened to "the worst corners of the dark web." Doerkson said Merrifield was a survivor of sexual violence and "acted out in a moment of trauma." He added that he would "always stand against hate" and pointed to allegations of antisemitism in the NDP caucus from former MLA Selina Robinson.

At the end of the event, leaders of CentreBC and OneBC delivered brief statements by video. Moderator Shachi Kurl said neither party qualified for the debate because they did not have enough candidates. CentreBC leader Elenore Sturko said her party is "socially progressive, environmentally pragmatic, and fiscally responsible." OneBC leader Dallas Brodie said her party would push for a 25 per cent income tax cut for individuals and corporations, and a two per cent cut in the PST.

Why it matters

This debate was the only televised event between the three main party leaders before the Oct. 24 election. Advance voting begins Friday. The exchange highlighted sharp contrasts in fiscal policy and Indigenous relations, with the NDP defending its spending record against Conservative calls for tax cuts and Green proposals for wealth taxes.

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Sources

• nationalobserver.com: Eby admits imperfections as BC leaders face off in only televised election debate | Canada's National Observer: Climate News
• nationalnewswatch.com: National Newswatch | Eby admits imperfections as B.C. leader's face…
• thestar.com: Eby admits imperfections as B.C. leaders face off in only televised election debate

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.