Conservation Voters of B.C. endorsed four candidates this morning – two New Democrats, one B.C. Liberal, one Green – and a scathing "Anybody but Carole" endorsement for the Victoria–Beacon Hill riding currently held by NDP Leader Carole James.

"We do not endorse Carole James for re-election," the non-partisan group said in a release. "As leader, the decision to position the NDP campaign against world-leading climate policies while not putting forward improvements or better alternatives is on her shoulders."

The political organization went on to summarily reject all 34 NDP incumbents.

"Due to the New Democrats’ failure to be leaders in promoting real solutions to global warming we cannot endorse any NDP incumbents that were members of this past caucus. We believe the party needs new leadership and new voices that take a more urgent, principled and collaborative approach to meeting the challenges of climate change," stated the Conservation Voters release.

The group's director, Naomi Devine, said the release, "The time for partisan politicking on the back of the climate crisis is over."

In addition, the Conservation Voters endorsed:

Yes to Single Transferable Vote: "Modifying the electoral system will provide increased opportunity for a multiplicity of voices in the legislature and multi-party, collaborative solutions to climate change and other environmental challenges."

Damian Kettlewell (Green Party, Vancouver-False Creek): "A driving force behind the Green Party, Damian has helped drive concepts of green economics into mainstream conversations in BC. Damian is running in a new riding with no incumbents giving him a strong chance at becoming BC’s first Green Party MLA."

Barry Penner (B.C. Liberals, Chilliwack): "Minister for Environment, Barry has worked against fossil fuel emissions and championed the BC Climate Action Plan. Barry has led the government team educating British Columbians on the value of pricing carbon in fighting climate change and we endorse his re-election."

Lana Popham (NDP, Saanich-South): "A first time candidate with a long history of action as a community activist, businesswoman and organic farmer, Lana is Chair of the Certification Committee for the Islands Organic Producers Association as well as owner and operator of Barking Dog Vineyard, the first certified organic vineyard on Vancouver Island. We endorse Lana in the hope that a new generation of NDP MLAs will bring a modern and forward-thinking perspective to the party."

Gary Holman (NDP, Saanich North and the Islands): "An economist who served two terms as Salt Spring Island’s Director on the Capital Regional District (CRD), Gary spearheaded Salt Spring’s first public transit system and serves on the boards of several conservation organizations. Gary will be a strong advocate for water and energy conservation and public transportation."

Conservation Voters has issued endorsements in five previous federal, provincial and municipal elections. The group claims that 29 of the 36 candidates it has previously endorsed were elected.

Monte Paulsen reports for The Tyee.