New Brunswick Elects Conservative Majority, Higgs Wins Third Term

The Progressive Conservative Party of New Brunswick (PCNB) has won a majority government in the 2024 provincial election, with incumbent Premier Blaine Higgs securing a third term in office.
In a closely watched race, the PCNB secured 25 seats in the 49-seat legislature, while the Liberals won 19 seats and the NDP won 5 seats. The Green Party failed to win any seats.
Higgs, who has led the PCNB since 2018, campaigned on a platform of economic growth, job creation, and fiscal responsibility. He has promised to continue investing in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Liberal Leader Susan Holt, who was hoping to become the province's first female premier, conceded defeat shortly after the polls closed. She said she was proud of the campaign her party had run and thanked her supporters for their hard work.
NDP Leader Mackenzie Thomason said he was pleased with his party's performance, which he said showed that New Brunswickers are looking for change. He said the NDP would continue to fight for social justice, environmental protection, and economic equality.
The election was held on October 21, 2024, with a voter turnout of 65%. It was the first provincial election in Canada since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Reflection
The 2024 New Brunswick election was a closely fought contest, with the PCNB ultimately emerging victorious. Premier Higgs has promised to continue focusing on economic growth and fiscal responsibility, while the Liberals and NDP have pledged to fight for social justice and environmental protection. It remains to be seen how the new government will address the challenges facing the province, including the rising cost of living, the need for affordable housing, and the transition to a greener economy.