In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1986. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: Bill Bennett announced his intention to step down as premier in May 1986, not long after the opening of Expo 86. He officially retired from the role in August, at which time the newly chosen leader of the Social Credit party would be named as premier. That summer, the SoCred convention to choose this leader was held in Whistler (learn more about the event here).
Question: Who do you think will be the next premier of BC?
Ken Hicks – Cameraman/Construction Worker – Alpine Meadows
Bill Vander Zalm is going to be the next premier only because of his charisma and nothing else. Mark my words. I think they’ll call a general election as soon as possible. I personally don’t favour Vander Zalm, but I think he and the Social Credit will be re-elected in the next election.
Gord Wall – Carpenter – Nanaimo
Probably Bill Vander Zalm. I don’t think that we’re ready for a woman premier. I think he’s the most popular next to Grace McCarthy. They’ll probably want to call an election when all the Expo hype is still on. The hype will die pretty quickly after it’s over.
Tom Barratt – Landscape Architect – Alpine Meadows
It’s a toss up between Bill Vander Zalm and Grace McCarthy because of their historical presence in the province. It won’t be Bud Smith because he’s never been officially elected before. I don’t know whether there will be an election called soon after the convention.