John Hogan has been elected as the new leader of the provincial Liberals and the next premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. The announcement came on May 3, 2025, during a party convention held in St. John’s, where Hogan decisively defeated his rival, John Abbott, securing 77.4 percent of the points needed under the party's voting system. This system allocates points based on the number of votes won in each of the province’s 40 electoral districts. The party reported that nearly 14,000 registered Liberals participated in the vote, reflecting a significant level of engagement and enthusiasm for the party's future direction.
Hogan, a former health minister, succeeds Andrew Furey, who announced his resignation in February 2025 after nearly five years in office. Furey, who is an orthopedic surgeon by trade, expressed his desire to return to medicine and spend more time with his family. His departure triggered a leadership race within the party, attracting two prominent candidates: Hogan and Abbott, the former minister of housing, mental health, and addictions.
In his victory speech, Hogan emphasized the importance of addressing key issues facing the province, including health care, affordability, and the negotiation of a high-stakes energy deal with Quebec that is projected to generate $225 billion in revenue over the next 50 years. "It’s an incredible honour to be the leader of such a strong group of representatives, and together we will work every day to deliver real economic and social benefits to every corner of our province," Hogan stated. He acknowledged the considerable challenges ahead, particularly the projected provincial net debt of $19.4 billion, which poses a significant burden for a province with a population of approximately 540,000.
Hogan's campaign resonated with voters who voiced concerns about the cost of living, especially for families and seniors. He noted that many residents are eager to see the finalization of the Quebec energy deal, which he believes can transform the province's economic landscape. "We cannot afford a new third strike," he remarked, referencing past financial agreements that have negatively impacted the province's fiscal health, such as the 1969 Churchill Falls agreement and the costly Muskrat Falls hydroelectric project.
As Hogan prepares to take on his new role, he also faces the daunting task of leading the Liberals into an upcoming general election, which must be called by October 2025. His leadership journey began when he was first elected as a Member of the House of Assembly (MHA) in 2021, defeating Progressive Conservative candidate Ches Crosbie in the Windsor Lake district. Since then, he has served as both the House leader and the minister of health and community services.
Hogan's background as a lawyer has equipped him with skills he believes are essential for navigating the complexities of governance. He has compared his legal work to running a small business, emphasizing the importance of informed leadership and innovative ideas. As a father of two young children, aged eight and three, Hogan understands the challenges families face, particularly regarding affordability and access to essential services.
During the leadership race, Abbott campaigned on a platform focused on seniors, housing, and expanding cell service, arguing that his experience as a senior executive in various government departments made him a strong candidate for the premiership. Despite his efforts, Hogan's message resonated more with party members, leading to his resounding victory.
Hogan's commitment to the province's future is evident in his stated goals. "We are here at the beginning of a new era," he declared, highlighting the potential of the energy deal with Hydro Quebec. "Think of the doors this will open for us, our children, and our grandchildren. It is crucial to get this deal across the line."
As he steps into his new role, Hogan will need to address the pressing issues facing Newfoundland and Labrador, including the aging population, with roughly a quarter of residents being 65 years or older. The province's unique geography, characterized by small, remote communities, presents additional challenges in delivering services effectively and efficiently.
In conclusion, John Hogan's election as the new premier of Newfoundland and Labrador marks a significant moment for the province. With a clear focus on health care, economic growth, and a commitment to addressing the concerns of families and seniors, Hogan aims to lead the province through its current challenges and into a more prosperous future.
