Could a familiar Coquitlam face be B.C. premier one day?
That depends as a much-touted contender is taking her time deciding whether to run for the leadership of the BC NDP.
"I believe that for women there is often more to consider when these leadership opportunities present themselves," Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA and B.C. finance minister Selina Robinson told the Tri-City News today (July 14).
"That’s why I am taking the time I need in the context of my life and my family for determining if I can give what this role requires."
Robinson, who was a Coquitlam city councillor before entering the provincial arena, said the job of premier is a challenging one and who ever succeeds John Horgan in the role needs to be able to devote their full attention to the task of leading government.
"British Columbia needs a premier and a leader who will continue to do the important work of putting people first and also working together to make sure that people have the opportunities they need in communities throughout our province," said Robinson.
In her statement, Robinson also noted "a number of her colleagues" are also considering entering the race.
As B.C.'s finance minister, Robinson is steering a $73-billion operating budget.
Brad West "humbled," yet to announce political plans
Another possible contender is also not showing his cards.
Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West, who is camping with his family, said he will be announcing plans for his future in the coming weeks.
However, West said he is "very humbled by all the supportive messages I’ve received from people in Port Coquitlam and all over the province.”
West has also yet to announce if he is running for a second term as mayor.
Farnworth ran for BC NDP leader in 2011, 2014
Meanwhile, one possible candidate for the job has not yet been mentioned by B.C. political pundits — Port Coquitlam MLA Mike Farnworth.
The Tri-City News has reached out to Farnworth, but has yet to hear back as of this publication.
Farnworth, who is currently the minister of public safety and solicitor general, previously ran twice for the job as leader of the NDP.
In 2011, he went up against Adrian Dix, who was subsequently elected leader, and entered the race again in 2014, but ultimately bowed out.
Premier John Horgan was subsequently acclaimed for the high-ranking leadership post.
Horgan announced in late June he would step down after a fall leadership convention.
