NDP Wins Majority in Nova Scotia

Darrell Dexter led the Nova Scotia NDP to a majority government in yesterday's Nova Scotia provincial election, making it the first time an NDP government has been elected east of Ontario. The Liberals gained two seats and become Nova Scotia's Official Opposition. The election results were humbling for the Progressive Conservatives, who went from a minority government to third-party status. Premier Rodney Macdonald managed to win his own seat in Inverness, but it is unlikely he will stay on.

Although it was clear throughout the campaign that Nova Scotians were looking for a change, the NDP victory has less to do with voter preference for leftist social policies and much more to do with the Nova Scotia NDP's moderate move towards the centre. A likeable lawyer, Premier-designate Darrell Dexter is practical and methodical, and is getting down to work right away. He has invited the media to the NDP's first post-election caucus meeting this week, plans to have the legislature back in session this summer, and hopes to have a new budget ready early in the fall.

Photo: Darrell Dexter, Premier-designate of Nova Scotia
Courtesy Nova Scotia NDP

More on Nova Scotia Election 2009
Nova Scotia Election Results 2009
Nova Scotia Elections