The passing of John Horgan, former Premier of British Columbia, has left a void in the hearts of Canadians. Horgan, who served as B.C.'s premier from 2017 to 2022, died on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the age of 65, following a long battle with cancer.
Horgan's life was dedicated to public service. He was a man of integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to building a fairer society. He championed the economy and clean energy. He tirelessly advocated for workers. He advanced meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. He had an abiding faith in Canadians and in our capacity to care for one another. He 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.
Horgan's political career spanned over two decades. He was first elected to the BC Legislature in 2005 and became leader of the NDP in 2014. He led the NDP to a historic victory in the 2017 provincial election, ending 16 years of Liberal rule. He was instrumental in revitalizing the BC NDP, forging a resilient party with optimistic members that not only won elections but inspired hope for a better future.
Horgan faced numerous challenges during his time as premier, including the COVID-19 pandemic, unprecedented floods, and wildfires. He was praised for his handling of these crises and his commitment to the people of British Columbia. He also introduced several important policies, including removing the medical services plan premium, increasing social assistance, and pushing B.C. to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
Horgan's ability to connect with people across the political spectrum was a hallmark of his leadership. He was known for his warmth, humor, and genuine compassion. He was called 'Premier Dad' by many for his approachable nature and his willingness to engage in open dialogue. His passion for building a fairer society will continue to inspire generations to come.
Horgan's legacy will be long remembered. He was a leader who put the needs of others first and made a real difference in the lives of British Columbians. He will be deeply missed.
Remembering a Leader
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with leaders from all parties remembering Horgan as a true champion for British Columbia.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called Horgan a “fighter” who “will be celebrated for his leadership and the progress he made on so many important issues. Above all, we will remember how John made us feel. His warmth. His positivity. His ability to connect with people irrespective of their politics or beliefs.”
BC Premier David Eby, who succeeded Horgan, said, “John loved this province and its people. He sought to address injustice wherever he saw it – using his time in office to help build a better, stronger British Columbia for everyone. His many accomplishments as premier will be felt for years and generations to come. His achievements are too numerous to mention, but he was a consequential premier at a critical time in our history. He encouraged all of us to strive to be our better selves.”
Former BC Liberal leader Christy Clark, once Horgan’s adversary in the legislature, said that while she disagreed with him on many things, he was a “dedicated public servant.” She praised Horgan for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that “In British Columbia we saw less division around COVID than anywhere else in the country. He and [Health Minister] Adrian Dix did a very good job in getting us through COVID with as few deaths as possible, and with as much accordance among us as possible. I think he will be remembered for that.”
Horgan’s Final Years
After stepping down as Premier in 2022, Horgan was appointed Canada's Ambassador to Germany in November 2023. He was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2021 and underwent 35 sessions of radiation at the Victoria Cancer Clinic. He stepped down as premier in 2022 stating at the time the ongoing cancer treatment had taken a physical toll on him but did not blame the disease for this decision to leave electoral politics.
In June 2024, Horgan announced he had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer for a third time. Horgan went on leave from his position as Canada's ambassador to Germany at the time. He returned to British Columbia for end-of-life care.
Horgan leaves behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to building a better future for British Columbia. He will be remembered as a true champion for his province and his people.
A Life Well Lived
John Horgan was a man who lived his life with purpose and passion. He was a fighter who never gave up on his dreams. He was a leader who inspired hope and made a difference in the lives of countless people. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on for generations to come.
