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N.S. premier ran on taxes and health care, but pivoted in 2025 to focus on energy

On Dec. 31, 2025, the Nova Scotia Progressive Conservative government shifted focus to natural-resource development, lifting fracking and uranium bans and opening offshore oil and gas bids after Premier Tim Houston named himself energy minister in October.
The Progressive Conservative campaign emphasized lowering taxes, raising the minimum wage, and hiring more doctors, while campaign materials said future prosperity requires refocusing on natural resources and critical minerals.
Introducing regulatory changes, the government streamlined environmental assessments, appointed Dalhousie University to oversee a $30-million program for onshore natural-gas exploration, and planned a major offshore wind development.
Environmental advocates warned of risks from fracking and uranium mining, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaw Chiefs criticized lack of consultation, and a former university president questioned gas claims.
Officials from the provincial government said natural-gas development will reduce coal use and help meet 2030 emission targets, but no energy and mining companies bid and political scientists warn of electoral risks after the Progressive Conservatives won 43 out of 55 seats.

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