A new study from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds that on one hand, B.C. residents voice widespread dissatisfaction with their government on the most important issues facing the province. In fact, at least two-thirds say the B.C. NDP are doing a poor job of handling the cost-of-living crisis, health care and housing affordability.

On the other, Premier David Eby remains popular, and his party holds a comfortable and continuing lead in vote intention. Eby entered his post at an opportune time, taking over a $5.7-billion surplus, which has allowed the government to announce a plethora of spending priorities.

As the one-year mark of Kevin Falcon’s tenure as B.C. Liberal (now B.C. United) leader passes, his personal favourability rating sits at 22 per cent. Falcon has yet to resonate with many, as three-in-ten still say they have no opinion of him.

Whether residents trust the current government to guide the province out of the challenges it currently faces, or they see no current alterative that they prefer, this consistent advantage for the B.C. NDP has the party in good shape if an election takes place this year. The B.C. NDP are the preferred choice for 45 per cent of would-be voters currently, with the opposition B.C. Liberals supported by 31 per cent.

These evident challenges, however, offer the opposition a foothold to gain ground. Three-in-five say that the cost of living is among their top concerns (63%), alongside health care (50%) and housing affordability (40%). No other issue rises above 24 per cent.