Jim Bradley, one of Ontario’s longest-serving provincial politicians and the chair of Niagara Region, has passed away.
A statement from the region confirmed that Bradley died at age 80 on Friday after a short illness.
He was a member of Queen’s Park from 1977 until 2018, when he shifted back to local politics.
In a statement, the Ontario Liberal Party mentioned that his influence will resonate for generations.
“He left a lasting mark on the province, shaping policy with thoughtfulness and wisdom,” the statement read.
Bradley first entered St. Catharines city council in 1970 at just 25 years old and was re-elected to represent that city in Niagara Regional Council 48 years later.
Soon after that, council chose him as regional chair, and the provincial government reappointed him to this role in 2022.
“Bradley’s remarkable 55-year career in elected office helped shape the city, region, and province he loved,” said the region in its statement.
During his tenure as a provincial legislator, he held various senior cabinet positions, including multiple terms as environment minister – first from 1985 to 1990 and most recently from 2011 to 2014.
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Jim Bradley held numerous government positions in Ontario and served as an MPP for 41 years. (Newshour/CBC Archives)
MP Yasir Naqvi, who also served as an MPP in Ontario for over ten years, referred to Bradley as “a legend in Ontario politics” in a post on X.
“He was kind, funny and devoted to serving the public. He always stood up for Ontario. I will forever miss my former seat-mate.”
In a message shared by Niagara Region before his passing, Bradley expressed gratitude towards his constituents for their trust in him.
“Our system of democracy is a true treasure, and I have always regarded it as a great honour to be able to advocate for the needs and desires of our city, our region, and our province,” he wrote.
Bradley is recognized as having the second-longest term for an MPP in Ontario history: an impressive span of 41 years. He follows only Harry Nixon, who served in provincial parliament from 1919 until his death in 1962.
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