What Is 33rd Premier of British Columbia

Overview

David Eby is the 33rd individual to hold the office of Premier of British Columbia, taking over leadership during a period of significant housing and affordability challenges. His tenure began after the resignation of John Horgan, who stepped down due to health reasons after leading the province since 2017.

Eby's background in law and public advocacy shaped his policy approach, particularly in justice reform and housing policy. As premier, he has prioritized increasing housing supply, strengthening tenant protections, and addressing systemic inequality across the province.

• David Eby officially became premier on November 18, 2022, succeeding John Horgan after winning the BC NDP leadership race unopposed.
• He represents the riding of Vancouver-Point Grey, a seat he has held since first being elected in 2013.
• Prior to becoming premier, Eby served as Attorney General from July 2017 to November 2022, where he led reforms in rental housing and legal aid.
• Under his leadership, the government passed the Building BC: More Homes for People Act to fast-track housing construction.
• Eby has maintained a strong focus on climate action, committing BC to reduce emissions by 50% below 2007 levels by 2030.

How It Works

The role of Premier in British Columbia is determined by leadership of the party holding the most seats in the Legislative Assembly. While not directly elected as premier, the leader of the governing party assumes the role following a leadership transition or general election.

• Term: David Eby's term began on November 18, 2022, and continues as of 2024. There is no fixed term limit for premiers in BC.
• Leadership Selection: Eby won the BC NDP leadership in 2022 without a contested race, as the only eligible candidate to register.
• Legislative Authority: As premier, Eby chairs cabinet meetings and directs the provincial government’s legislative agenda and policy priorities.
• Policy Focus: His administration has emphasized rent control expansion, tenant protection laws, and the elimination of single-family zoning in major cities.
• Public Engagement: Eby maintains active communication through social media and town halls, particularly on housing and mental health issues.
• Interprovincial Relations: He has taken a firm stance on federal housing funding, advocating for increased support and accountability in spending.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of David Eby with recent premiers of British Columbia, highlighting tenure, party affiliation, and key policy initiatives.

This table illustrates the shift in policy focus over the past two decades, with Eby continuing the NDP’s emphasis on social equity while introducing aggressive housing supply targets. His administration differs from previous Liberal governments that prioritized economic development and tax reform.

Why It Matters

David Eby’s leadership has significant implications for British Columbia’s long-term social and economic direction, particularly in addressing systemic housing shortages and mental health services.

• Over 10,000 new homes were approved in 2023 under Eby’s housing acceleration program, aiming to meet a 10-year target of 114,000 units.
• His government expanded the Empty Homes Tax to 11 municipalities, increasing pressure on owners of vacant properties.
• Eby introduced rent increases capped at 2% in 2024, one of the lowest rates in Canadian provinces.
• He launched the BC Building Act to override local zoning and enable multi-family housing in all urban centers.
• Mental health and addictions funding rose by $150 million in the 2023 budget under his direction.
• Eby’s stance on climate policy aligns with BC’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

As British Columbia faces persistent affordability and climate challenges, Eby’s policies could set a precedent for urban development and social services across Canada.