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John Horgan joins NDP leadership race to succeed Dix

Energy critic called 'straight shooter' by former leader Carole James
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MLA for Juan de Fuca

NDP energy critic John Horgan jumped into the NDP leadership race Monday, joining Port Coquitlam MLA Mike Farnworth.

The Juan de Fuca MLA finished third behind outgoing leader Adrian Dix and Farnworth in the party's 2011 leadership race.

But this time he has the endorsement of former B.C. NDP leader Carole James, who had not previously taken sides since her resignation after a caucus revolt.

"He gets it," James said, calling Horgan "a straight shooter and a team builder."

Horgan said he believes in community, public services and ensuring access for all to B.C.'s prosperity.

"I believe I can take those values and encourage people to not just vote for the NDP, but to be excited about voting for the NDP," Horgan told Black Press.

He had previously decided against another leadership run, saying he wanted younger party members to step forward, but said Monday he was instead convinced by them to enter the contest.

Surrey-Whalley MLA Bruce Ralston has replaced Horgan as the NDP's house leader.