Nigel Wright, who was chief of staff to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, has passed away. At the time he made the announcement, he was 62 years old. His unexpected and premature death still comes as a shock. Political leaders and colleagues have overwhelmed social media with memorials and tributes, paying respect to his tremendous impact on Canadian conservatism and public service.
Wright was Harper’s chief of staff from 2011 to 2013. He was remembered for these same qualities—nonstop kindness, decency, and generosity. Jason Kenney, former Alberta Premier, expressed his shock and sadness over Wright’s passing, stating, “Nigel was one of the kindest, most decent and generous people I have ever known.” Kenney painted him as a figure of “unimpeachable integrity and honour.” He rounded this out by stressing this nominee’s business acumen infused with a spirit of public service.
True to his life-long dedication to Canadian conservatism, Wright laboured in a humble and low key behind-the-scenes capacity. Ken Boessenkool commented on Wright’s influence, stating, “He contributed mightily to Canadian conservatism, mostly quietly, always modestly.” His legacy speaks for itself, what an incredible political accomplishment. It showcases the key relationships he developed inside the Conservative Party and out.
Though Wright was a longtime personal friend and political supporter of Harper’s, having been politically active since his university days. His unofficial tenure as chief of staff came to a scandalous end in 2013. It was discovered that he had signed a $90,000 personal cheque to then Conservative senator Mike Duffy. This unprecedented move resulted in a subsequent investigation by the federal ethics commissioner, who found Wright had indeed violated conflict-of-interest laws. Despite this blow, Wright proved more than resilient and was soon back enriching public life, rejoining Onex Corporation in London in 2014.
As many colleagues shared their thoughts about Wright’s commitment and work ethic. Andrew MacDougall described him as “everything you would want a public servant to be: smart, dedicated, and Stakhanovite in his work ethic.” Bobby Le Blanc, president and CEO of Onex, mourned the loss of his colleague, stating, “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our cherished colleague and friend, Nigel.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney likewise lauded Wright, referring to him as “a true Canadian patriot.” Carney noted that Wright’s contributions had fostered a “better and more prosperous future for Canadians.” He made the case for Wright’s unique combination of acute intelligence with astounding productivity. He referred to him as a “singular and profoundly accomplished human being.”
The gratitude for Wright didn’t stop in his political circles. Dimitri Soudas remarked that Wright’s “sharp mind and unwavering dedication left a mark on all of us who had the privilege to work alongside him.” His commitment to integrity in public service resonated with many who knew him, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who stated that Wright was “a principled and honourable man who was dedicated to Canada and to public service, and who made a lasting contribution to our country.”
Wright immediately went on the offensive. In doing so, he maintained that he thought his actions were legal and in the interest of the public. Yet, his legacy is today seen through the more circumstantial lens of his character and contributions.
Wright’s legacy will live on in the countless friends and colleagues across the world who had the privilege of knowing a man so committed to kindness and service. As Kenney said in his tribute, “He will be deeply missed by his many friends around the world.”
