VANCOUVER — Six people are running in today's two provincial byelections in British Columbia, one in Vancouver-Mount Pleasant and the other in the Metro Vancouver riding of Coquitlam-Burke Mountain.
The byelections were called at the beginning of January to fill vacancies created last year when long-time New Democrat MLA Jenny Kwan ran successfully for the federal NDP, while Liberal Doug Horne failed in his bid to represent the Conservatives.
Melanie Mark is seeking to hold the New Democrat stronghold of Vancouver-Mount Pleasant for the party, challenged by Liberal Gavin Dew and Green candidate Pete Fry.
Coquitlam-Burke Mountain has been Liberal red since 2009 and businesswoman Joan Isaacs will try to maintain that streak against New Democrat Jodie Wickens and Green Joe Keithley.
Traditionally, byelections don't favour the ruling party, but even if the Liberals lose both ridings, Christy Clark's government won't be in jeopardy.
Current standings in the legislature show the Liberals with 48 seats, New Democrats with 33, and two independents.
