Iain Black Announces Leadership Bid, Pledges to “Get British Columbia Back on Track”

Coquitlam, B.C. — January 15, 2026

Standing before a packed room of supporters in his hometown of Coquitlam today, Iain Black officially launched his candidacy for leader of the BC Conservative Party, pledging to restore confidence, opportunity, and common sense to a province facing nearly a decade of NDP mismanagement.

“British Columbians are looking for the real thing,” said MLA Teresa Wat. “Someone who has led in the real world, faced challenges, and has a clear plan to get this province back on track. Someone ready to meet the moment, with the judgment, vision, and experience to lead from day one.”

A Leader Ready to Govern

“Today, we begin a journey together,” Black said. “Not just to win a leadership race—but to build a strong, capable team ready to govern, defeat the NDP, and get British Columbia back on track.”

Black described a province where families, workers, and seniors are struggling with rising costs, declining affordability, stalled investment, public safety concerns, and frustration with a government that too often fails to deliver.

“People are being told to expect less—less housing, less opportunity, less security—at a higher cost,” he said. “That is unacceptable. British Columbians deserve better. And they deserve it now.”

With decades of leadership experience across government, business, and community organizations, Black emphasized the need for a leader who can hit the ground running.

“In my conversations with party members and supporters over the past six weeks, the message was clear: this cannot be a long-game solution. We must be ready to win now—and ready to govern immediately, with a disciplined team, a serious plan, and a clear focus on results.”

Listening, Uniting, Delivering

Black made it clear that his campaign is rooted in listening to British Columbians. Families, workers, seniors, and small business owners are looking for leadership that delivers results, restores opportunity, and rebuilds trust.

“I hear you,” Black said. “You want leadership that is effective, experienced, and focused on solutions. You want someone ready to govern from day one—not learn on the job. That’s the leadership I will bring.”

A Clear Vision for a Stronger BC

Black believes the government's role is simple: clear the path, set fair rules, and get out of the way. He believes in empowering the private sector to create jobs, investing in healthcare and education, protecting the vulnerable, and restoring pride and confidence in British Columbia.

“We can get back to the BC we love,” said Black. “A province where hard work is rewarded, communities thrive, and our children can build their future here without fear or uncertainty. This is the moment to act. Together, we will Get BC Back on Track.”

A Call to Action

Closing his announcement, Black struck an optimistic yet urgent tone:

“Don’t give up on B.C. Don’t give up on each other,” he said. “We can fix this—but only if we have the courage to act. To my friends in Northern B.C., the Interior, the Lower Mainland, the Island, and communities across our province—and starting today, here in Coquitlam—I am offering a fresh start and a steady hand. A leader who listens, unites people, and focuses on what works. Together, we will Get British Columbia Back on Track.”

About Iain Black

Iain Black has built a career at the intersection of public service, economic leadership, and community building. Known as a principled, results-oriented leader, he has served in senior roles across government, business, and community organizations. He brings the experience, judgment, and vision to lead British Columbia into a brighter, more prosperous future.