The political party that claimed it wasn't actually a party

Wars & Conflicts · Published 16 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1937, Vancouver's business elite created a political movement to stop the rise of democratic socialism. They called it a "free enterprise coalition," explicitly claiming they opposed the introduction of party politics into civic life. Yet, this "non-partisan" entity would go on to dominate the city's leadership for decades.

The Non-Partisan Association (NPA) was founded on November 13, 1937, by prominent business figures like Victor Odlum, W. C. Woodward, and Austin Taylor. Their primary goal was to counteract the growing influence of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF). While they framed themselves as a coalition of free enterprise rather than a political party, they were deeply connected to the BC Liberal Party, which launched the initiative to create them.

The party's early history was marked by strategic shifts and internal friction. Although they first fielded candidates in 1936, a 1939 split between executive member Nelson Spencer and the party leadership over a mayoral nomination resulted in a divided right-wing vote, allowing the CCF to win. However, by 1940, Jack Cornett secured the mayoralty, ushering in a period of NPA dominance on Vancouver City Council that lasted for decades.

The NPA's grip on power fluctuated, holding the mayor's office during several distinct periods, including 1941–1958 and 1986–2002. In recent years, the group has faced an identity crisis. Following the 2018 election, a mass exodus of officials occurred, with many citing a shift toward a more right-wing, undemocratic structure. This internal turmoil culminated in 2022, when the party lost all its remaining seats as many former members joined the ABC Vancouver party.

Today, the NPA remains a significant fixture in Vancouver politics, though it continues to navigate the tension between its pro-business roots and the demands of a modern, diverse city. Its history serves as a case study in how "non-partisan" labels can be used to consolidate power while maintaining a veneer of civic neutrality.

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