Will Political smoke bring some political fire for BC Liberals? Speculation on future for Skeena MLA Ellis Ross

A turn of a phrase by Skeena MLA Ellis Ross in an answer to a reporter's
question on Thursday has Victoria political watchers stirring the
party hopping speculation pot this weekend

Some answers to questions in the lobby of the legislature yesterday have some political observes in Victoria suggesting that another political defection may be in the works in BC Politics.

The subject of that speculation is none other than Skeena MLA Ellis Ross, who spoke yesterday with Global BC reporter Richard Zussman, with his answers catching the ear of BC political observer Bill Tielman who tried a bit of tea leave reading on twitter today.

The essence of the speculation is the comment from Mr. Ross that his opportunity to express his opinions on political themes is that of a BC Liberal ... currently 

What that may mean for the future leaves for a bit to think about, Ross who finished second in the party leadership contest to current BC Liberal leader Kevin Falcon has taken on a more prominent role for the BC Liberals in the both  last fall's and the current session  of the Legislature. 

However at times his themes can stray from the Liberal talking points as relayed by the new leader.

As we noted yesterday, another Northwest politician made news in Victoria this week, that as Nechako-Lakes MLA John Rustad officially joined the BC Conservative Party, becoming the first member for the reborn brand to hold a seat in the Legislature.

Mr. Ross has expressed some similar concerns on resources as the Nechako-Lakes MLA and the BC Conservatives have clearly staked out their political turf as that which will advocate for rural issues and communities.

Mr. Rustad was also a very enthusiastic supporter for the Ross campaign for the BC Liberal leadership, prior to his expulsion from the Liberals later in 2022.

If the Skeena MLA were to follow Mr. Rustad to the other side of the Chamber, that would automatically provide the BC Conservatives with official party status, putting them at par with the Green Party. 

It may also provide a path for those in the BC Liberal party to consider their own future plans, something that would make the incoming name of BC United somewhat of an ironic bit of branding and could set the stage for a fascinating twist for BC Politics.

It may all just be a bit of political theatre for a Friday in the provincial capital, but so far the Skeena MLA hasn't made note of or clarified any of the quickly percolating speculation through his social media stream.

Which means that the eyes will be on the Skeena MLA for the short term to see if there's any fire to the smoke of today.

Update: The MLA made note of the current themes of the day as part of an afternoon social media item.

More notes from the Legislature can be explored through our archive page.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review.