Horwath takes Ontario NDP leadership

This looks like a good thing:

For the first time in three decades Hamilton has a provincial party leader.

Hamilton Centre MPP Andrea Horwath won the leadership of the Ontario NDP in a three ballot contest yesterday.

The last party leader that came from Hamilton was Dr. Stuart Smith. He represented Hamilton West and lead the Liberal party between 1976 and 1982. The bulk of his old riding is now in Horwath's riding.

"Thank you New Democrats," Horwath said, after she was pulled to the stage by supporters when the vote result was announced at about 7:30 p.m.

"I feel great," the 46-year-old mother of one told reporters. "It's been an excellent convention. It's been very exciting."

Horwath received 6,742 votes, or 60 per cent of the total. Toronto-Danforth MPP Peter Tabuns placed second.

Horwath, a Stoney Creek native and former Hamilton councillor, had been in the lead since the first ballot was announced just after 5 p.m. and never faltered.

Her victory comes just one day before International Women's Day.

From the Hamilton Spectator. Truth to tell I don't know that much about her, since I left Ontario before the leadership race and haven't followed it that closely as a result, but my overall impression of her is good, and most of the people I know and respect back in Waterloo supported her, as did Charlie Angus. Maybe this is the start of a new era for the NDP in Ontario. Let's hope so, anyway.

I just got back from the Manitoba NDP convention in Brandon. Plenty of activity, general good vibe... details to follow after I've had time to unwind and get some rest.