Former British Columbia Premier John Horgan Dies at 65

Former British Columbia Premier John Horgan and Canada’s ambassador to Germany, has passed away at the age of 65. Horgan was first elected to B.C.’s legislature in 2005 and became the leader of the B.C. NDP in 2014. He assumed the role of premier in 2017 after securing a minority government.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, particularly given his government’s minority position. Nonetheless, Horgan rose to the occasion, achieving some of the highest approval ratings among Canadian premiers for his handling of the public health crisis. British Columbians rewarded his leadership with a majority government in 2020.

Many Albertans remember Horgan as a vocal opponent of the TransMountain Pipeline expansion, leading to a lengthy political standoff with then-Alberta Premier Rachel Notley. His complex relationship with resource development continued after Jason Kenney was elected to lead Alberta.

In 2021, Horgan was diagnosed with throat cancer, which ultimately led him to step down as party leader in 2022. Following his departure from provincial politics, he was appointed Canada’s ambassador to Germany in 2023, a position he held until his passing.

Horgan is survived by his wife and two adult sons.