The Alberta United Conservative Party just came off an extensive leadership contest. The British Columbia New Democratic Party had a much lower key, well, lack of battle.
Former provincial attorney general and housing minister David Eby is the premier-designate to replace John Horgan. The only other competitor for the job was Anjali Appadurai, who was rejected following a report found fraudulent memberships had been solicited on her behalf.
There was a voting period scheduled to be as early as November 13 with results around December 3. Like getting handed a present and finding out early what was in the box.
BC Premier John Horgan announced in late June that he would step down before the next provincial election, likely to be in October 2024.
Horgan had been dealing with throat cancer treatments. While Horgan is stepping down as premier, he will continue to be the MLA for the Langford-Juan de Fuca riding.
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Horgan is the only BC premier from the NDP to be elected to 2 straight terms. You might recall that Horgan gambled to call an election in the middle of the pandemic. The previous government relied on the Green Party to keep the government in power.
For those unfamiliar with the parliamentary system, this type of transition is fairly normal. Most provinces don't require a new, unelected premier to run soon after winning the race to be the leader of the party in power. Newfoundland and Labrador is a grand exception.
photo credit: CTV News Vancouver
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