Becky Druhan Leaves PC Caucus, Joins Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin as Nova Scotia's Only Independent Bloc

Druhan's departure, following her dismissal from cabinet, signals a shift in Nova Scotia's political landscape. She joins Smith-McCrossin in forming the only Independent bloc, potentially impacting government policies and the upcoming election.

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2025 October 28 . 3:06 PM

1 min read

In this image we can see a man standing in front of the podium and also the mikes. In the... — In this image we can see a man standing in front of the podium and also the mikes. In the background we can see the curtains. We can also see the text on the podium.

Becky Druhan Leaves PC Caucus, Joins Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin as Nova Scotia's Only Independent Bloc

Becky Druhan has left the Progressive Conservative caucus to sit as an Independent in the Nova Scotia legislature. She joins Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin as the only sitting Independent members, both former Tories. Druhan, the former Minister of Justice and Attorney General, cited differences in principle with the government's leadership.

Druhan's departure comes after she was dismissed from the cabinet. She previously held several key positions, including responsibility for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism and serving as Provincial Secretary. Druhan declined to elaborate on her reasons for leaving, citing cabinet confidentiality. However, she mentioned having 'some differences in principle' with the leadership.

Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, another former Tory, welcomed Druhan as an Independent. She criticized the government's control over MLAs. Druhan, meanwhile, has stated that she will continue to support the government's efforts where they align with the needs and interests of her constituency and Nova Scotians more broadly. Druhan also turned down the opportunity to stay on as minister of opportunities and social development during the recent cabinet shuffle.

Becky Druhan's move to sit as an Independent marks a significant change in the Nova Scotia legislature. With Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, they now form the only Independent bloc. Druhan's decision, driven by differences in principle, may signal a shift in the political landscape, with potential implications for the government's policies and the upcoming election.