BC NDP Premier David Eby has appointed a former top aide and close advisor to former Alberta premier Rachel Notley as his Chief of Staff.
On the heels of announcing his new cabinet, Eby appointed Jim Rutkowski to the position effective immediately.
Rutkowski has deep roots in Alberta politics, having served closely with former Alberta NDP Premier Rachel Notley as a senior advisor and former principal secretary. Rutkowski now takes over the administration of the Premier’s Office for a six-month term.
The new appointment steps into the role previously held by Matt Smith, who will transition to an advisory role after serving two years in the Premier’s Office.
This change comes at a pivotal time following Eby’s narrow victory in the recent provincial election, which the Conservative Party of British Columbia argues has ushered in a continuation of what they describe as “radical left-wing policies.”
The appointment of Rutkowski sheds light on Eby’s strategy to lean on experienced NDP operatives in what is expected to be a political balancing act given his slim majority.
Rutkowski’s resume includes significant past stints as Chief of Staff to BC’s former NDP opposition leader Carole James.
The reshuffling of Eby’s cabinet also reflects this progressive tilt. Notably, Adrian Dix, previously accused by critics of mishandling the healthcare sector, has been moved to head the Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions.
This shift comes amidst criticisms over healthcare management, with long wait times and staffing issues persisting under his watch.
Moreover, the cabinet now includes figures like Christine Boyle, a rookie MLA with a history of advocating for defunding the police and radical stances on the activist “Land Back” movement.
Boyle will now be serving as the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
With housing affordability, inflation, and public safety still major voter concerns, these moves could prove contentious for Premier Eby, who pledged a different direction to voters while on the campaign trail.
