The Conservative Party of British Columbia says its membership has surged past 42,000, marking a dramatic rise as the party prepares to choose a new leader next month.

Party officials announced the figure this week, describing it as the highest membership total in the party's history. The milestone comes just ahead of the May 30 leadership vote, which will determine who succeeds former leader John Rustad.

The party had only a few hundred members a few years ago. By late 2025, membership had climbed to roughly 7,000 before accelerating sharply during the current leadership race. The rapid growth reflects the Conservatives' rising profile following their strong showing in the 2024 provincial election, when they emerged as the Official Opposition. The surge also reflects growing political competition in a province where issues surrounding land, resources and reconciliation remain at the forefront.

Five candidates remain in the leadership contest after meeting the party's financial and organizational requirements. The swelling membership means the race will be decided by a much larger base than initially anticipated, adding another layer of significance to the outcome.