New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs has stated on social media that he will not resign and plans to seek another term in office in 13 months, despite growing dissent within his own Progressive Conservative Party. In a statement posted on Twitter, Higgs acknowledged the need for a unified government focused on achieving better outcomes for the province. He highlighted New Brunswick’s robust fiscal surplus, which surpasses that of all other provinces, and strong population growth as reasons for his intention to continue leading the party. The next election in New Brunswick is scheduled for October 21, 2024.
However, Higgs recently faced a challenge from within his own party by a group of MLAs who questioned his leadership late last month. Despite falling short of the numerical threshold required to trigger a leadership review, Higgs was able to retain control of the party. The disagreement stemmed from revisions to Policy 713, which was established in August 2020 and pertains to sexual orientation and gender identity. While some MLAs opposed the changes, Higgs defended his position by emphasizing his support for parental rights.
In a news release on May 27, the provincial government announced a review of three sections of Policy 713 related to name changes for children under 16 without parental consent, transgender participation in female sporting events, and access to washrooms based on gender identity. The release affirmed that Policy 713 would remain in place and may be strengthened to provide greater clarity for parents.
The issue of parental rights has gained prominence in Canada, and the federal Conservative Party delegates voted in favor of limiting gender-related medical procedures for minors on September 9. Additionally, the “Million Person March,” a nationwide protest against gender ideology targeting children, is scheduled for September 20.