Keywords Born in 1948 Premiers, British Columbia

Campbell was sworn in as premier on 5 June 2001, succeeding former premier Ujjal Dosanjh. Within a day of Campbell's taking office, the Liberals delivered on a promise to cut taxes dramatically. A promised review of the government's delivery of services and a poor economy led to a major downsizing of the civil service and reductions in spending, most conspicuously in social welfare and health benefits. Despite massive protest rallies and widespread disappointment with the government, a poll shortly before the government's first anniversary showed that the Liberals had the support of 45% of decided voters. Campbell also made strides with the provincial Pacific Gateway Program, an initiative that invests in infrastructure to support the growing volume of Asia-Pacific trade, placing BC as a leader in the North American trade gateway. BC was also awarded the prestigious 2010 OLYMPIC GAMES during Campbell's inaugural term.

Campbell won a second term as premier on 17 May 2005, but Liberal support was not as strong as it had been in 2001. The NDP captured 33 of the 79 seats, garnering support from seniors and families who had been affected by the Liberal government's cuts to social spending. Campbell's second term was defined by several key initiatives, particularly in the areas of increased employment (inevitably losing ground due to the recession in late-2008 and 2009), First Nations relations, and climate change. The Tsawwassen Treaty, which came into effect in 2009, provides financial support to help increase the economic vitality of the Aboriginal community in the Lower Mainland region of BC. It was the first urban treaty ever negotiated in the province. In 2008 Campbell enacted a controversial carbon tax on fossil fuels, an initiative that was widely criticized by the NDP in the 2009 election.

In 2009, Campbell won a third-consecutive majority - the first premier in 25 years to do so - in an election that was, once again, marked by low voter turnout. Making use of the new Internet communication technology "Twitter," the Liberal party broadcast election coverage the day of the election, unwittingly violating the provincial Elections Act. The party was later chastised for its actions but no charges were formally laid.

Campbell, Gordon
Premier of British Columbia (courtesy Government of British Columbia).

Author PATRICIA ROY

Links to Other Sites
Premiers of British Columbia
A list of premiers of British Columbia, 1871 - today. From the Government of British Columbia website.