Becky Druhan leaves PC Party, will represent Lunenburg West as Independent MLA
CBC
Less than a week after a surprise cabinet shuffle that saw her on the outside looking in, Lunenburg West MLA Becky Druhan says “a difference of principles” has prompted her to leave the Progressive Conservative caucus to sit as an Independent in the Nova Scotia Legislature.
In an interview with CBC News, Druhan denied that her decision was motivated by Premier Tim Houston’s decision to remove her from the justice portfolio or by any type of policy disagreement.
“This really wasn’t about that,” she said Monday.
“This is about a difference of principles between my views and those of the leadership.”
Druhan, who was first elected in 2021 as part of the team that formed government under Houston, declined to elaborate on what those differences are or whether they relate only to the premier or extend to other members of his inner circle.
“I really have to respect cabinet confidentiality and I’m not in a position to share many details," she said. "I will say, I have great respect for my government colleagues. I really appreciate the opportunity to do the good work together that we’ve done and I absolutely wish them all the best.”
Druhan confirmed reports that she was offered a move to a different portfolio before the cabinet shuffle was announced last Tuesday, but said she turned it down. Druhan said it “would have been an honour to serve in that role,” but again cited the difference in principles.
Her decision was communicated to the premier in a formal letter, but Druhan said the two have not spoken.
Houston’s office issued a statement saying, “we wish her all the best.”
The cabinet changes announced last week included moving Scott Armstrong from the opportunities and social development file into justice, where he also becomes attorney general. Druhan, a lawyer by training, was said to have been offered Armstrong’s former file.
The move changes the PC’s seat count in the legislature to 42, while the number of Independents is now up to two. The other Independent, Cumberland North MLA Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, issued a statement Monday saying she was ready to support and work with Druhan where their goals align.
“Nova Scotians are watching, and they know the difference between slogans and substance. Becky’s decision shows integrity and resolve.”
Smith-McCrossin was previously a member of the PC caucus before being removed by Houston for her role in a highway blockade. She’s twice been elected as an Independent.
NDP Leader Claudia Chender issued a statement saying that Druhan’s decision “raises questions about the Houston government’s priorities and practices.”
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