WHISTLER (NEWS1130) – The BC Liberals are gathering in Whistler this weekend. But they won’t be choosing a new leader or a new name at their annual convention in Whistler this weekend.
    
University of the Fraser Valley political science professor Hamish Telford tells us a lot of the people who are out knocking on doors and organizing fundraisers can get worn down, especially if they live in a riding that’s an NDP stronghold.
    
Telford says this convention is about keeping them motivated, which could be a little easier now. “I think they also feel an opportunity has emerged for them. This appears to be falling back to a two party race.”

He explains party members realize they’re way behind the NDP in the polls, but with all of the issues the BC Conservatives are having, there’s not as much concern about a split vote on the right.

He adds today isn’t about forming policy or mapping an election strategy. “Party organizers and hardcore members get together, reconnect, and rejuvenate. It’s a time to get fired up again.”

Telford describes the weekend as a time to motivate the people who’ll be fighting the election campaign on the front lines for the premier.

“It puts Christy Clark in her element. Obviously, we have seen over the past few months that policy isn’t her forte. She’s a cheerleader and I don’t think she’ll have any trouble at all firing up the troops.”

On the agenda today is a discussion entitled “Free Enterprise Friday.” Tomorrow, there will be some policy discussion and then a keynote speech by the premier.

News1130 has a reporter in Whistler for the convention. Follow @Jesse_Johnston for updates.

You can watch a livestream of the events at the BC Liberal convention right here.

Schedule:
Friday October 26th
Free Enterprise Friday (11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)

Saturday October 27th
Cabinet Accountability (9 9.m. – 10 a.m.)
Policy Plenary (10:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.)
Premier’s Keynote (4 p.m. – 5 p.m.)