bio_photo: 

Early Beginnings and Educational Achievements

Born in Inverness, Nova Scotia, on January 2, 1972, Rodney Joseph MacDonald was the second eldest of four children to Alex Angus and Elizabeth Ann MacDonald. Growing up in Mabou, MacDonald attended school and participated in numerous extracurricular activities including hockey and music. He showed an early interest in politics, closely following his father’s work as a local councillor.  He attended St. Francis Xavier University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education.

Pre-Political Life

Before winning the seat in the riding of Inverness in 1999, MacDonald taught for the Strait Regional School Board, the Mi'kmawey school at Chapel Island, and pursued his Masters in Education.

Political Life

Premier MacDonald’s political life began in 1999 when he was elected the Progressive Conservative MLA for the riding of Inverness. His career includes a number of cabinet appointments. He has served as Minister of Tourism, Minister of Culture and Tourism, Minister of Health Promotion, and Minister of Immigration. In 2005-06, MacDonald ran in the Progressive Conservative leadership race to replace John Hamm, who had announced his intention to retire from public office and as Premier of Nova Scotia. MacDonald beat his closest rival Bill Black on the second ballot, with 1,263 votes to Black’s 855. As the Progressive Conservatives were the governing party at the time, MacDonald was sworn in as Nova Scotia’s Premier on February 24, 2006. On June 13, 2006, MacDonald led his party to a victory in a provincial general election, consequently retaining his role as Premier.

Beginning in March 2007, Premier MacDonald has been at odds with the federal government over the federal government, which requires Nova Scotia choose between offshore revenue guarantees contained in the Atlantic Accord and a new equalization formula included in the federal budget.

Personal and Community Life

MacDonald is married to Lori-Ann Gillis and they have one son.He is also an accomplished musician. In 1998, he received two nominations as a fiddler at the East Coast Music Awards.