The British Columbia Conservative caucus sought to project unity less than 24 hours after electing Kerry-Lynne Findlay as its new leader, despite a leadership race that exposed internal divisions within the party.Findlay, a former federal Conservative MP, held her first caucus meeting in Vancouver shortly after winning a fourth-ballot victory.

Her election comes amid concerns from political observers and opponents that her more populist, right-leaning stance could deepen tensions between the party’s centrist and more conservative factions.

During the caucus meeting, members publicly affirmed their support, with some MLAs who had backed rival leadership candidates, including Peter Milobar, signalling willingness to work under her leadership.Milobar, who was eliminated early in the contest, has said he intends to remain and support party unity.

Findlay has indicated she will consult caucus members on key decisions, including whether to reintegrate MLAs who previously left or were removed from the party.

The leadership race itself was marked by controversy, including criticism of Findlay’s comments about Milobar and broader ideological disputes over issues such as gender identity education policies in schools.

Findlay has pledged to end SOGI-related programs, which she argues reflect ideological overreach, while critics say such positions may alienate centrist voters.

Former caucus members and independents have expressed scepticism about the party’s direction, with some suggesting it is moving away from a broad-centre political identity.

Despite these tensions, the caucus has emphasized a message of cohesion and electoral readiness, as the party seeks to consolidate membership growth and prepare for the next provincial election in British Columbia.