BC Conservatives surge ahead of NDP in new poll

An Ipsos poll carried out in partnership with Global BC finds the BC Conservatives ahead of the BC NDP by five points, capturing 43% of decided voters compared with the NDP's 38%. The BC Green Party rises to 11%, with OneBC and CentreBC trailing at four and two percent respectively, while 18% of respondents are still undecided and another seven percent have no party preference. Regionally, the Conservatives lead by three points in Metro Vancouver, hold a 21-point advantage in the Southern Interior and northern areas, but the NDP enjoys a 47% to 27% lead on Vancouver Island.

The poll notes a gender gap favoring Conservatives among men and a strong showing among 35- to 54-year-olds, while the NDP performs better with women. Favorability ratings show Premier David Eby at 35% favorable versus 38% unfavorable, and Conservative leader Lorne Doerkson at 26% favorable and 24% unfavorable. The findings come ahead of a televised leaders' debate on Oct. 14, featuring Eby, Doerkson and Green leader Emily Lowan.