Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced his resignation during a surprise news conference held on February 25, 2025, at the Confederation Building in St. John's, marking the end of his nearly five-year tenure. His decision has taken many by surprise, with Furey sharing his thoughts on what has been "a wild and unexpectedjourney, right from the start to bring us here to today".
Furey, who took office as premier back in August 2020, has carved out his legacy as both an orthopedic surgeon and political leader. He succeeded Dwight Ball as Premier, emphasizing from the start, "I am not a career politician," repeating this sentiment during his resignation speech, citing personal reasons for stepping down. "This job has been like one five-year-long shift. You are always on. You are never off,” he explained, reflecting the emotional toll of the role.
At the heart of Furey's announcement is his commitment to family, noting the dilemma of maintaining a balance between his political responsibilities and personal life. He stated, "Now the time has come for me to return to my family and to the job I loved..." Furey's resignation is timely with the province scheduled for elections later this year. His decision allows the Liberal Party to initiate what he has referred to as a ‘race to replace’ him, ensuring the party remains forward-looking.
Throughout his time, Furey faced numerous challenges, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and financial hurdles surrounding projects like Muskrat Falls. Notably, he is credited with achieving what he described as "history made and past wrongs rewritten," claiming significant advancements such as negotiating agreements with Quebec over hydroelectricity from Churchill Falls. This agreement is seen as transformative, potentially generating $200 billion over its lifetime.
Furey’s leadership was not without controversy and adversity. He led the province through decisions laden with weight, performing as both leader and caretaker, which he expressed when he said, "You are with everyone for the celebrations, but often alone with the weight of the hardest calls." This duality became evident as he navigated significant issues including strained relations with U.S. officials over potential tariffs aimed at Canadian goods.
Furey’s resignation follows closely on the heels of another Atlantic province's premier stepping down. Dennis King of Prince Edward Island had recently engaged with similar concerns, emphasizing the toll political life has taken on him. Furey’s departure raises concerns about the effects of leadership turnover, especially during tumultuous times, but he remains optimistic about the future of the province without him at the helm.
Reflecting on his time, Furey expressed pride for his accomplishments, asserting, "I feel what we have accomplished together will no doubt be the rock-solid foundation for our province moving forward." His tenure includes landmark agreements such as the establishment of health accords to address care systems and securing funding to stabilize energy prices amid fluctuated costs associated with power generation.
The announcement has drawn reactions from various sectors within the province. Yvette Coffey, the President of the Registered Nurses' Union, acknowledged his contributions, appreciating Furey’s engagement with healthcare professionals to improve the systems operating within Newfoundland and Labrador. “His openness and availability allowed for conversations about solutions to the challenges facing registered nurses,” she noted.
With the future uncertain, Furey remains committed to supporting the community, albeit from the sidelines, stating he will continue to serve the people of his province post-resignation. His departure leaves behind shoes to fill as the Liberal Party awaits finding its new leader – someone who will inherit the challenges faced by the province moving forward.
Furey’s resignation is not just the end of his political career but also signifies key transitions within governmental roles as Newfoundland and Labrador prepares for the next phase of leadership amid broader challenges, but for now, he leaves with hopes for positive change and growth for the province.