Jim Horsman

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James Deverell Horsman, CM, ECA, AOE (born July 29, 1935) is a former Alberta politician who served in the Legislative Assembly from 1975 to 1993 and held several cabinet posts.

Born in Camrose, Alberta, Horsman grew up in Meeting Creek with his grandparents while his parents served overseas in World War II. His family later moved to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. He studied at the University of British Columbia, earning a Bachelor of Commerce in 1959 and a Bachelor of Laws in 1960.

After completing his studies, he practiced law in Calgary before settling in Medicine Hat. He married Betty Whitney in 1964, and they had three daughters.

Horsman joined the Alberta Progressive Conservatives in the early 1960s and ran for office several times before winning in 1975 in Medicine Hat-Redcliff, defeating William Wyse. After redistricting, he won in Medicine Hat in 1979 and again in 1982 and 1989, retiring in 1993.

In government, Horsman held key roles including Minister of Advanced Education and Manpower (1979–1982), Minister of Federal and Intergovernmental Affairs (1982–1992), Attorney General (1986–1988), and Deputy Premier (1989–1992). He also served as Government House Leader and Provincial Secretary.

As Minister of Federal and Intergovernmental Affairs, he oversaw constitutional negotiations after Canada’s patriation, leading up to the Charlottetown Accord talks.

After leaving politics, Horsman became Alberta’s chief NAFTA negotiator and held other public service roles, such as chair of the Medicine Hat College board and chancellor of the University of Lethbridge from 1999 to 2003. He received an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Lethbridge.

Horsman has received numerous honors, including the Queen Elizabeth II Silver and Golden Jubilee Medals, the Governor General’s 125th Anniversary Medal, and the Alberta Centennial Medal. He was named a Member of the Order of Canada in 2006 for his public service, advocacy for education, and community work. He continues to participate in citizenship ceremonies in Southern Alberta.