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Canada’s negotiating team tried to secure a deal for Canadians, which I’ve forcefully and vocally supported. I continue to stand ready to support and work with the Prime Minister. We will work together to do everything possible to protect the massive number of Nova Scotian and Canadian families, workers and businesses that have now been added to the large list of those directly impacted by President Trump’s devastating tariffs. It’s clear that we cannot trust or rely on the United States as we once did. This reality must make us more determined than ever to make Nova Scotia and Canada stronger. For Nova Scotia that means developing our own energy, developing our own natural resources and finding new markets for Nova Scotian goods and services. We have tremendous opportunities and I am fully committed to seizing them. Building up Nova Scotia is the only true path to protecting our future. Potential doesn’t build hospitals and roads. Turning potential into reality does. This is our time to find the common ground necessary to build. This is how we make ourselves stronger and protect our future. Let’s make it happen. Let’s go Team Canada!

As our province and country work together to fight wildfires, President Trump responds with more threats and punishing tariffs. At this point, we should not be surprised. Real friends do not threaten you when you are in trouble. They step up and help.

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Premier John Hamm. Dr. Hamm, as he was known for decades, made an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Nova Scotians. First as a compassionate family physician in Pictou County and later as the premier who made big changes to set our province on a better path. Premier Hamm first entered public life as the MLA for Pictou Centre in 1993. In 1995, he was elected as the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia, and in 1999, he led the party from third place to a majority government. He was elected premier again in 2003 and retired from politics in 2006. During his time as premier, he made a landmark investment in Nova Scotia Community College, calling it an investment in the province’s future. Among his most significant achievements was his successful negotiation of the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord. He was a tireless champion for the province, and his successful Campaign for Fairness ensured Nova Scotians would be the primary beneficiaries of the province’s resources. What he said in 2001 is still relevant today: “I want Canadians to know that Nova Scotia wants to earn economic independence by our own means and once again be social and economic equals within this great country. We are asking only for what Nova Scotians were promised – as the revenues from our offshore oil and gas grow, the additional financial benefits should flow to Nova Scotians.”  I will remember Premier Hamm for his strength, his quiet dignity and for his determination to improve the lives of the people he served. At this difficult time, I send my most sincere condolences to his wife Genesta and their children John, Jeffrey and Jennifer, their families and to all who loved Premier John Hamm. In recognition of Premier Hamm’s many contributions to Nova Scotia, the flags on Province House and all provincial buildings will be half-masted.

Today is World Parkinson’s Day. For the thousands of Nova Scotians living with Parkinson’s, and the families supporting them, know that you are not alone.

Lest we forget.

Nova Scotia has earned the top score in Canada on the 2025 internal trade report card from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, receiving an A grade and the highest overall mark in the country. This recognition reflects the work we’ve done to reduce interprovincial trade barriers and cut red tape that holds businesses back. By making it easier for goods, services, and labour to move across provincial borders, we're creating more opportunity for Nova Scotian businesses to grow, compete, and reach new markets across the country. We’re proud to lead the way. When local businesses succeed, our economy gets stronger and more Nova Scotians benefit.

Thank you to the proud men and women who serve our province and country. 🇨🇦