From 1984 to 1986, he served as Vancouver city councilor. Campbell was elected Vancouver mayor in 1986, and served until 1993. In 1993, Campbell was elected leader of the B.C. Liberals. He was first elected to the B.C. Legislative Assembly in 1994 in a by-election in the riding of Vancouver-Quilchena. Campbell was reelected in 1996 and 2001 in the riding of Vancouver-Point Grey. During these years, Campbell served as Leader of the Opposition.
In 2001, Campbell led the B.C. Liberals to a massive victory, winning 77 of the 79 seats in the legislative assembly. He was sworn in as Premier of B.C.Campbell led the B.C. Liberals to two more majority governments in the 2005 and 2009 provincial elections. Campbell’s troubles started shortly after the 2009 elections when his government introduced the HST. Popular anger had been directed at the premier, which the seasoned politician acknowledged in his November 3 statement. “When public debate becomes focused on one person, instead of what is in the best interest of British Columbians, we have lost sight about what is important,” he said. “When that happens, it’s time for a change.”
“This decision is what I believe is in the best interest of British Columbia, our government, our party and the people of our province. At a time like this, everyone’s attention should be focused on helping our economy rebound from the global recession and moving forward with an agenda that families can see is in their long-term interest,” he stated. “It’s been quite a run and more fun than not. I have always been motivated by what is best for this great province and this great country,” he also said.