Local MLA steps into top provincial role
Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson has been named New Brunswick’s Leader of the Official Opposition, while newly elected Progressive Conservative leader Daniel Allain remains without a seat.
MLA Johnson replaces Saint John East MLA Glen Savoie, who served as interim PC leader after the party’s October 2024 defeat. She was among seven sitting Progressive Conservative MLAs who publicly endorsed Allain in June.
A two-term MLA, Johnson was first elected to represent Carleton-Victoria on Sept. 14, 2020, and then-premier Blaine Higgs appointed her minister of agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries. She held the cabinet portfolio until the Liberals formed government in 2024, overseeing a department responsible for three industries with important roles in New Brunswick’s rural and coastal communities.
After her re-election in October 2024, Johnson was appointed Official Opposition House Leader and Opposition Critic for Social Development and for Seniors.
“I will be representing the leader in the legislature and continuing to represent the people I love in the riding,” said Johnson on Facebook. “I will still be bopping around the riding non stop.”
Her legislative experience also includes service on standing committees dealing with official languages; procedure, privileges and legislative officers; and climate change and environmental stewardship.
Before entering provincial politics, Johnson worked as a teacher and has remained involved in schools since retiring. A longtime Carleton County resident, she has led Sparks and Brownies, taught Sunday school, managed hockey teams, and supported local arts activities. She has also volunteered with Rotary, helped raise money for Children’s Wish and Relay for Life, and is a familiar face at local community events and charity functions.
Johnson’s constituency office is in Centreville, where she says she will continue representing Carleton-Victoria while taking on her new provincial responsibilities.
“I have every intention to ask the people of Carleton-Victoria to allow me to represent them once again in the election of 2028,” she added. “Anyone who tells you different, doesn’t know.”
