After three bouts with cancer, former B.C. Premier John Horgan passed away on Nov. 12, 2024.
Horgan was the MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca (an area west of Victoria) for almost two decades, eventually rising to become leader of the BC NDP in 2014 and premier in 2017. He served as the premier of British Columbia for more than five years, winning two provincial elections.
During his premiership, he led the government through the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, Horgan stepped down from provincial politics due to health concerns after his 2021 cancer diagnosis. He went on to serve as Canada's ambassador to Germany for one year.
After such a long time in politics and the public eye, most British Columbians and many Canadians were familiar with Horgan, especially those in the political sphere. After his passing was reported on Nov. 12, many in Vancouver took to social media to share their condolences.
As a young staffer briefing John Horgan on issues in his riding & on his portfolio as critic he was always kind, considerate & appreciative of the job I had to do. He was a good man, a good representative of his community & leader for our province during crisis. May he rest in peace. #BCPoli
— Kit Sauder (@kitsauder.bsky.social) November 12, 2024 at 12:28 PM
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Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Premier John Horgan. His dedication to British Columbia and his commitment to public service have left an indelible mark on the province. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who had the honor of working… https://t.co/x2tA7klQD9
— Rebecca Bligh, City Councillor (@rebeccaleebligh) November 12, 2024
Very saddened to hear of former Premier John Horgan's passing. I had the honour of meeting him first when I was working at UBC, and then as a city councillor. He was incredibly approachable, kind and genuine. My condolences to his friends, colleagues and family. #bcpoli https://t.co/uMd5j3oRpP
— Peter Meiszner (@PeterMeiszner) November 12, 2024
From all appearances, John Horgan was a good and decent man. Sad that he lost his battle. Condolensces to his family and as always #FuckCancer
— JABO Vancouver (@jabo_vancouver) 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
John Horgan was a good man who diligently served his community, province and country with honour and decency. I am saddened to hear that he has passed away. RIP. #bcpoli #cdnpoli
— Bruce Young (@BruceRYoung) November 12, 2024
Sad to hear the news about John Horgan passing away this morning.
— Jenn (@jennsaidthis) November 12, 2024
I met him many times at work as he travelled around the province. He would always stop and chat to folks. RIP John from Langford 🌹 https://t.co/gI7gRJ5cdE
Rest well John Horgan. You did well for BC. https://t.co/6nj5iZwA6p
— Mr. Joro (@Mr_Joro) November 12, 2024
Very sad to hear news of John Horgan’s passing. During my time as Surrey’s Mayor, then Premier Horgan was always interested in the well being of our city and his centrist, engaging approach was deeply valued. BC has lost a well respected leader. My sincere condolences to his…
— Linda Margaret Hepner (@linda_hepner) November 12, 2024
This is very sad news. John Horgan was a great guy, and well-respected by most B.C. residents, regardless of their political inclinations. I enjoyed several good chats with him when he was seeking the NDP leadership in 2011. He has left us far too soon. https://t.co/voYbXF2knq
— Frank Bucholtz (@frank_bucholtz) November 12, 2024
There were also many from across B.C.'s political spectrum who shared their respects.
Very sad to hear of John Horgan’s passing. While we were political opposites, I did enjoy my personal rapport with him. We enjoyed our legislative battles, but also our lighthearted jokes in the hallways. Our collective Irish heritage may have worked in our favour.
— Kevin Falcon (@KevinFalcon) November 12, 2024
I extend my…
While working at the BC Legislature, we were tasked with identifying a bird carved into the hall sculpture (training scavenger hunt) John Horgan (before he was Premier) overheard us, stood behind the group, & gave us the correct answer. I remember him as smart, kind, and jovial.. #BCpoli
— Christopher (@alibraryatnight.bsky.social) November 12, 2024 at 11:48 AM
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.
— Mayor Merlin Blackwell of Clearwater (@blackwellmerlin.bsky.social) November 12, 2024 at 11:44 AM
It is a sad day as our dear friend and former Premier John Horgan has passed away.
— Nicholas Simons (@nicholassimons.bsky.social) November 12, 2024 at 11:44 AM
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Horgan's passing was also noted by many in Canada's political community across the country.
I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of former BC Premier John Horgan. He worked hard to make BC a better place. My condolences to his family and all BC New Democrats.
— Brian Mason (@grumpyoldsocialist.bsky.social) November 12, 2024 at 11:47 AM
