The Conservative Party is disassociating itself from one of its board members due to controversial social media remarks following a fatal shooting incident in Minneapolis involving a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. Progressive Conservative Leader Obby Khan condemned online statements made by Patrick Allard, deeming them “offensive and inappropriate.” Khan emphasized the party’s stance against hate and inappropriate comments during a press conference, asserting that such behavior is unacceptable.
In response to Allard’s remarks, Khan announced on social media that Allard’s statements do not align with the values of the PC party, confirming that Allard will not be a PC candidate in the upcoming election. Following an emergency meeting, the party unanimously decided to suspend Allard’s party membership and his position on the board.
Allard’s controversial comments on social media came in the midst of protests in Minneapolis following the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE agent. Video footage of the incident circulated online, showing the ICE agent firing shots at Good while she was in her vehicle. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew expressed solidarity with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and hinting at potential repercussions for the Manitoba PCs.
Allard, who has a history of opposing COVID-19 public health measures and has been fined multiple times, expressed disappointment at the party’s decision, labeling it a “knee-jerk reaction.” Despite the suspension, Allard hinted at his intentions to run in the next election in St. Johns, either as an independent candidate or for another party.