ST. JOHN’S — Newfoundland and Labrador’s Liberals will select a new leader today to replace outgoing Premier Andrew Furey.

Two former cabinet members are vying for the role: John Hogan, the former health minister, and John Abbott, the ex-minister of housing, mental health and addictions.

Abbott has promised a basic income program for seniors living below the poverty line, and to increase housing and expand cellular coverage.

Hogan has zeroed in on health care, affordability and finalizing a high-stakes energy deal with Quebec that promises $225 billion in revenue over the next 50 years.

The winner will inherit considerable challenges, including a projected provincial net debt of $19.4 billion for a province of about 540,000 people.

Furey, an orthopedic surgeon, announced in February he would step down as premier and leader of the Liberals, and return to medicine.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2025.

The Canadian Press