British Columbia’s Conservative Party won a majority government in Saturday’s provincial election, securing 64 of 93 legislative seats and returning the party to power for the first time since 1928, according to preliminary results.

The victory ends nine years of government under the left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP), which has opposed new oil pipelines and supported a ban on oil tankers along the province’s northern coast. The NDP won 27 seats, while the Green Party secured two.

Conservative leader Lorne Doerkson, who is expected to become the province’s next premier, promised to expand British Columbia’s economy by reducing regulatory barriers and increasing energy production.

“I believe in energy,” Doerkson said during his victory speech, adding that his government would cut red tape on an unprecedented scale.

The Conservatives campaigned on expanding liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, pledging to double natural gas output by 2032 and more than triple it by 2035. The party also promised to remove emissions limits, overhaul the province’s carbon tax framework and seek renewed investment from major energy companies, including ExxonMobil, Chevron and Woodside.

The election result marks a significant change in the province’s approach to energy development, as Canada seeks to expand exports and diversify its energy markets. British Columbia’s location on the Pacific coast makes it a potential gateway for Canadian natural gas exports to Asian markets.

Outgoing NDP Premier David Eby called the early election in an effort to secure a stronger mandate amid economic uncertainty and trade tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump. The defeat prompted Eby to announce his resignation as NDP leader.

The Conservatives won approximately 48% of the popular vote, compared with about 37% for the NDP and 11% for the Greens, based on preliminary results.

The final vote count remains subject to completion by Elections BC. Doerkson has pledged to prioritize economic growth and make British Columbia more attractive to businesses and energy investors.