VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 13 (UPI) -- British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell led the Liberal Party to a third consecutive majority, promising strong provincewide economic development.
"We will build small business, build jobs and economic opportunities in every corner of this province," he said Tuesday night.
The Liberals -- who will lead the province through the 2010 Winter Olympic Games next February and a worldwide economic downturn -- won 49 jurisdictions, or ridings, surpassing the 43 seats needed to form a majority in the 85-seat Legislative Assembly, the non-partisan legislative Office of the Chief Electoral Officer of British Columbia reported.
The New Democratic Party, led by Carole James, remained the official opposition, winning 36 seats, the office said.
No Green Party candidates were elected. Final results will be available after May 25.
Campbell's win -- the first time in a quarter-century a Canadian premier won three majorities in a row -- means a controversial carbon tax the government enacted last year will remain in force, the Toronto Star reported.
Voting in favor of a government supporting such a tax, which applies to vehicle and heating fuels, was a tough voter decision, but one that will "deal constructively and positively with the challenges of climate change," Campbell said, his wife Nancy at his side.
James, who told reporters she would now reflect on her future, maintained the carbon tax was unfair, but said voters were evidently more concerned about the economy than with issues such as senior care, the environment and education.
"I think it's clear the economy was an issue and people felt they wanted someone with experience, who had been in the premier's position already," The Globe and Mail quoted her as saying.
