John Horgan, BC’s former premier, has died at the age of 65.
The tragic news comes after Horgan publicly battled cancer in recent years. He had not shared his latest diagnosis with British Columbians in recent weeks, but BC’s Health Minister Adrian Dix announced in a news conference earlier in the year that Horgan had a new diagnosis of cancer.
He was first elected to the BC legislature in 2005 as the MLA for Juan de Fuca and led the province through the COVID-19 pandemic as premier. In 2022, Horgan announced he would step down. He later took a position with the federal government as Canada’s ambassador to Germany.
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He called being the leader of BC the “thrill of [his] life.”
Horgan had become known for his no-BS attitude and was even considered one of the most popular premiers in the country a few years ago.
Premier David Eby took over from Horgan and now leads BC’s NDP government.
A letter from the Horgan family confirmed the 65-year-old died Tuesday morning at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria.
“He was surrounded by family, friends, and the love in his final days,” a statement reads.
Horgan has left behind a wife and two children.
The statement from his family ended with a touching reference to Star Trek, as Horgan was a known Trekkie. He even sported the badge to work before.
“Live long and prosper,” the statement ended.
Eby released a statement on Tuesday morning, saying, “The news of John Horgan’s passing this morning in Victoria leaves us with heavy hearts.
“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,” Eby continued.
Tributes pouring in
As the shocking news of his passing has been breaking, social media posts from locals, politicians, and journalists sharing their heartfelt condolences have been pouring in.
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. Through the pandemic,… pic.twitter.com/cj1M6sRC0D
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 12, 2024
Lacrosse and the Shamrocks were the late John Horgan’s passions. #RIP #bcpoli https://t.co/5T19s7eM9n
— Bob Mackin (@bobmackin) November 12, 2024
I am deeply saddened to hear that my friend, our former Premier, John Horgan has died from cancer. I knew and worked with John in several roles since 1991 – but none more important than BC Premier. This was at his swearing in. RIP #bcpoli #vanpoli #canpoli https://t.co/gY61YKkZSH pic.twitter.com/7tkZVAlFFP
— Bill Tieleman (@BillTieleman) November 12, 2024
Heartbreaking news this morning. Sending love to all who loved John Horgan. Premier Dad made the world a better place to be in and i’m so thankful for his friendship and his leadership. Rest in Power my friend. Your memory will live long and prosper my friend. #bcpoli #bclab pic.twitter.com/Yta28QWTGu
— Sussanne Skidmore She/Her (@SussanneRS) November 12, 2024
Very sad to learn of the passing of former BC Premier John Horgan. He was an absolutely lovely person. Condolences to his family in this terrible time. #JohnHorgan
— Jody Vance (@jodyvance) November 12, 2024
Incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of British Columbia’s 36th Premier John Horgan.
John always carried a challenge coin he had been presented by IBEW. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him.
Rest in Peace John. #CanLab #JohnHorgan pic.twitter.com/WMxdjTy2dZ
— Rob Halpin (@Poleconomist) November 12, 2024
Oh no! Just heard of the passing of John Horgan. Great human and pretty damn good Premier.
Thoughts to his friends and family.
And Eff Cancer.
— Merlin Blackwell, Clearwater Mayor 🤦♂️ (@BlackwellMerlin) November 12, 2024
Oh no! Just heard of the passing of John Horgan. Great human and pretty damn good Premier.
Thoughts to his friends and family.
And Eff Cancer.
— Merlin Blackwell, Clearwater Mayor 🤦♂️ (@BlackwellMerlin) November 12, 2024
Oh no! Just heard of the passing of John Horgan. Great human and pretty damn good Premier.
Thoughts to his friends and family.
And Eff Cancer.
— Merlin Blackwell, Clearwater Mayor 🤦♂️ (@BlackwellMerlin) November 12, 2024
In honour of Horgan, the flag at the Parliament Buildings will be lowered to half-mast.
The province will later announce service details to mark Horgan’s passing.
The #BCLeg Canadian flag is flying at half-mast to honour the life and memory of former Premier John Horgan, who passed away today. The flag will remain at half-mast until sunset on the day of the funeral or memorial service (date to be determined). pic.twitter.com/QuOLdXKA3l
— BC Legislature (@BCLegislature) November 12, 2024