Former BC Premier John Horgan Dies at 65

Former B.C. Premier John Horgan speaks during a swearing in ceremony at the Musqueam Nation, in Vancouver, B.C., on Nov. 18, 2022. The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck

Former B.C. Premier John Horgan has died at the age of 65, following his third bout with cancer. He was most recently Canada’s ambassador to Germany.

“Our hearts are broken to announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father and Friend, John Horgan,” Horgan’s family said in a statement posted by his former press secretary Sheena McConnell on social media on Nov. 12.

“John passed away peacefully this morning at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. The wellbeing of British Columbia and everyone in it was everything to him. He was surrounded by family, friends, and love in his final days.”

Horgan first became an NDP MLA in 2005, and went on to become party leader in 2014. He became premier in 2017 after his party formed government with the help of the Greens that year, and was re-elected in 2020.

He served in that role for five years, before stepping away as premier in 2022 and then later as MLA in 2023, citing health reasons amid a battle with throat cancer.

Shortly after leaving provincial politics, he was named Canada’s ambassador to Germany by the federal government in November 2023.

In June, Horgan announced he was on leave from his latest post after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

Horgan had his first battle with cancer in 2008 after a routine check-up for a shoulder problem found he had bladder cancer. He was declared cancer-free after surgery and treatment.

Reactions

B.C. Premier David Eby, who took over the premiership from Horgan in 2022, said in a statement that 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,” said Eby. “His beloved wife, Ellie, and sons, Evan and Nate, are in our thoughts and prayers.”

B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad said he was “deeply saddened” to hear of the passing of Horgan.

“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,” he said on social media. “Throughout the years, I had the opportunity to interact with John on numerous occasions. 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.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered his condolences to the family in a social media post and said Horgan would be missed.

“Through the pandemic, through wildfires and floods — through everything — he led with courage and warmth,” Trudeau wrote in an X post. “He was a true progressive—a leader on climate action, affordable childcare, and Reconciliation. He championed the economy and clean energy, and he advocated for workers.”

Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre wrote on social media that he was “sending heartfelt condolences” to Horgan’s loved ones.

“On behalf of Canada’s common sense Conservatives, we wish peace and comfort in this time of loss for all his loved ones,” he said on social media platform X.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was “saddened” to hear of Horgan’s passing.

“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,” she said.

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew offered his condolences to Horgan’s family and friends, noting his career as a public servant, premier, and ambassador.

“He will be remembered, not just for these titles, but as someone who forged ahead with a vision of good public healthcare, a more affordable quality of life and a steady hand, even through the worst of a global pandemic,” Kinew said.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also offered his thoughts on Horgan’s passing.

“I had the privilege of working with John and always admired his ability to build bridges and work with people of every political stripe,” Ford wrote on X. “He leaves behind an enormous legacy that he and his family can be proud of.”

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey also shared his thoughts on Hogan, saying the two had worked together on the Canada Health Transfer.

“I admired him as a progressive thinker and champion for all Canadians, and I will miss his advice and friendship,” he said in an X post.

The Canadian Press contributed to this report.