Dianne Watts | BIV file photo



South Surrey MP Dianne Watts, who served as the mayor of Surrey from 2005 to 2014, is the most highly favoured potential candidate for leadership of the BC Liberals, according to the results of an Insights West poll released August 22.

Watts has a favourability rating of 39%, according to the poll. This is higher than the favourability ratings for all other prospective contenders for the leadership. Sam Sullivan comes in second place at 30%, followed by Mike de Jong (28%), Jas Johal (24%) and Kevin Falcon (23%).

“When British Columbians ponder the possibility of Dianne Watts as leader of the BC Liberals, the party’s fortunes change dramatically when compared with other possible contenders,” said Insights West vice-president of public affairs Mario Canseco.

More males rate Watts favourably than females (42% and 37%, respectively). As well, older British Columbians are more likely to pick her as the best candidate. Forty nine per cent of those aged over 55 years see her as a good candidate, compared with 38% of those aged between 35 and 54 and 24% of those between 18 and 34.

“The Watts-led BC Liberals would enjoy a significantly higher level of support from voters aged 55 and over and residents of the Lower Mainland.”

Insights West also asked respondents whether they approve of the performance of Premier John Horgan so far. The poll found that slightly more than half of all British Columbians – 52% – approve, while 31% disapprove. Forty eight per cent are happy with Green Part leader Andrew Weaver.

The study results were based on a survey of 812 British Columbians between August 14-17.

ecrawford@biv.com

@EmmaHampelBIV