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Simons touts new beginning

John Horgan steps up to lead opposition

John Horgan was sworn in as new leader of the BC New Democratic Party earlier this month in Vancouver.

At the official NDP meeting Horgan, formerly MLA for Juan de Fuca, became the party’s 16th leader. Horgan’s win was uncontested after his only opponent, Mike Farnworth, stepped out of the race.

Horgan lost out to Adrian Dix at the last NDP leadership race. Dix resigned after his party succumbed to the provincial Liberals in the 2013 election.

Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons said he was pleased that Horgan decided to run again. “He’s got a personality that will draw people back to the party, and probably attract folks who have not supported us in the past,” Simons explained.

“His appointment means there’s a renewed feeling of optimism,” he added. “He’s got an engaging personality and an excellent grasp on important issues like jobs and energy.”

Simons believes Horgan will be a fighting force in the next election, carrying the mandate of the party. “We’re three years away from an election, but I can tell you that during the next election John’s not going to let anyone forget how this government has treated the public or the environment,” he said.

Simons added that during the previous leadership race Horgan was gaining momentum through the last couple of weeks, but he came up short. “This decision on the part of the party to unanimously support John is a culmination of that momentum.”