Briefly: British Columbia’s 36th premier, John Horgan, died Nov. 12. Tributes flowed for the former NDP leader from across the political spectrum.
Bob Mackin
The 36th Premier of British Columbia, John Horgan, lost a battle with cancer on Nov. 12 in Victoria’s Royal Jubilee Hospital.
Horgan was 65. He is survived by wife Ellie and sons Evan and Nate.
An NDP MLA for 18 years, including more than five years as premier, Horgan became Canada’s ambassador to Germany in 2023. He took sick leave last June due to thyroid cancer.
Funeral plans are to be announced.
John Horgan on 2020 election night (BC NDP/Flickr)
Horgan touched many people, across the political spectrum.
Following are a dozen tributes.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:
John Horgan believed in the power of public service. He saw it as a privilege, as a way to help others and to make our country better. He loved British Columbia. As Premier, he had a tenacity, passion, and dedication for his work that very few could match.
Former B.C. Green leader Andrew Weaver:
John embodied everything about the word Honourable as he served as our Premier. You will be missed but your legacy of leadership will live on forever.
John Horgan’s death leaves us with heavy hearts. John loved this province and its people. He sought to build a better, stronger British Columbia for everyone.
Former BC Liberal Premier Christy Clark:
Public life takes every ounce of your attention, of your heart, and of your time. There is no doubt that Horgan’s commitment to British Columbia and his dedication to public service have left an enduring legacy.
Conservative Party of B.C. leader John Rustad:
John was not just a colleague in public service but a man of genuine warmth and integrity. Despite our political differences, I always held a deep respect for him as a person.
His approachable nature and willingness to engage in open dialogue were qualities that I admired greatly. He had a way of making everyone feel heard, regardless of their stance or background.
BC United leader Kevin Falcon:
While we were political opposites, I did enjoy my personal rapport with him. We enjoyed our legislative battles, but also our lighthearted jokes in the hallways. Our collective Irish heritage may have worked in our favour.
Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West:
He was a friend to our community, and a role model of public service.
John led with integrity and his commitment to the people of this province, his compassion, and his sense of humour will be deeply missed.
When I was elected, my son was struggling with me being away. Premier John Horgan showed up unplanned to play Pokémon and to tell him why he needed me in Victoria. He cared for his colleagues families as much as he cared for families across B.C.
He was a leader that had the uncanny ability to connect with people regardless of political stripe. John will be remembered as a true friend to Surrey.
Former BC Lions’ coach and general manager Wally Buono: :
Premier Horgan was a great leader, kind, and loved the people of British Columbia!!! All of B.C. will miss his big smile. Blessings my friend!!
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith:
Premier Horgan dedicated his career to public service with a steadfast commitment to his province and its people. His contributions and legacy will be remembered.
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