BC Conservative leader John Rustad denies sparking mental health talk with resigning MLA Amelia Boultbee, who claims he stigmatized her struggles.

British Columbia Conservative Leader John Rustad denies raising mental health concerns during talks with MLA Amelia Boultbee, who resigned from the caucus, saying a reporter initiated the topic. Boultbee accused Rustad of stigmatizing mental health after he allegedly told her to “get the F out,” claiming she sought help for stress related to a child abuse file but was not unfit. Rustad cited her emotional state and role stress as concerns but said he didn’t dismiss her for mental health reasons. Attorney General Niki Sharma criticized his handling, calling it disappointing and urging support for members facing mental health challenges. Boultbee said emotional reactions are normal and criticized the leadership as failing. This is the fifth MLA to leave the caucus amid tensions with Rustad.