BC United MLA Jackie Tegart has announced that she will not be running in the upcoming provincial election.
Tegart has represented the Fraser-Nicola riding since she was first elected as a BC Liberal in 2013. She won re-election in 2017 and again in 2020.
In a statement issued on Tuesday (Sept. 3), Tegart said that her decision not to seek re-election was made after careful consideration. It comes after BC United leader Kevin Falcon's surprise announcement on Aug. 28 that the party was suspending its campaign and withdrawing its candidates from the 2024 British Columbia general election in order to endorse the Conservative Party of BC.
"Serving the people of Fraser-Nicola has been one of the greatest honours of my life," said Tegart in her statement. "Over the past 11 years, we have faced extraordinary challenges — wildfires, landslides, floods, and atmospheric rivers — that tested the resilience of our communities.
"Yet, time and again, I witnessed the incredible spirit of our people, stepping up to support one another in ways that were often unprecedented. It has been my privilege to advocate on behalf of such a strong and united constituency, even when government actions fell short."
Tegart mentioned many achievements that were accomplished in the riding during her time in office, including the $60 million fix for the 10 Mile Slide site near Lillooet on Highway 99; construction of a new ER in Merritt; expanding seniors' housing in Clinton; fostering the growth of the Ashcroft Terminal; and developing the Tourism Master Plan for the Fraser Canyon.
Prior to entering provincial politics in 2013, Tegart — a longtime Ashcroft resident — served on the Board of Trustees of School District No. 74 (Gold Trail) for 17 years, and was board chair for 15 years. She also served three terms as a councillor for the Village of Ashcroft. She served as caucus chair for the BC Liberals, and is currently the assistant deputy speaker.
Her announcement came after several other high-profile BC United MLAs, including Todd Stone (Kamloops-South Thompson) and Shirley Bond (Prince George-Valemount), stated that they would not be seeking re-election. The next provincial election will take place on Oct. 19, 2024.
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my dedicated staff both in the riding and in Victoria," said Tegart. "Their unwavering commitment to serving the people of Fraser-Nicola has been truly inspiring. To the countless supporters who have stood with us over the past decade, I am deeply grateful for their trust and encouragement.
"As I step back from public life, I do so with immense gratitude for the opportunity to have served this incredible region. It has been an honour beyond words to represent you."
