PREMIER David Eby’s approval rate has remained unchanged for well over a year now with the latest Angus Reid Institute poll showing that approximately half of B.C. residents (48%) support him ahead of an expected October election.

The ARI noted that Eby’s government announced significant new expenditures on housing and affordability relief in its 2024 budget which will portend more than a $7-billion deficit for 2024/25 (approximately double the projection outlined in the 2023 budget). Some critics have referred to as the party’s election platform. Much of the intrigue in the electoral contest will depend on a divided opposition, which has given the NDP a comfortable lead in vote intention thus far.

The Angus Reid Institute conducted the online survey from February 28 to March 6. The margin of error was plus or minus three per cent.