Eby's Approval Ratings Plummet as BC NDP Deals Fall Flat
British Columbia Premier David Eby's approval ratings have taken another hit in recent polls. According to the Angus Reid Institute, his approval rating fell to 27% in July, down from 31% in June and 40% in December.
The decline is largely attributed to the BC NDP government's deals with Ottawa last month on a new Alberta oil pipeline and affordable housing initiatives. Despite Eby proclaiming the pipeline deal as a 'co-operative prosperity agreement' that would bring billions of dollars for major projects, infrastructure, jobs, and public services, many British Columbians remain unconvinced.
The poll found that 55% of respondents agreed that the condo component of the housing deal was a 'bailout' for developers unable to sell units due to market conditions. The same percentage also thought the plan wasted money.
In response to the criticism, Eby has shifted his focus to criticizing US President Donald Trump's proposed 50% tariff on Canadian goods, calling him a 'bully'. This stance may provide some temporary relief for the NDP government as it tries to rebound from its declining approval numbers.