View From the Legislature

This past weekend, Manitobans celebrated Thanksgiving which is a traditional time to reflect on the many things we have to be grateful for. For myself and my family this was especially true as we reflected on the many blessings we have personally and on how thankful we are for the support we received in the provincial election on October 3rd.

Every election campaign has its own dynamic. For myself, this was the sixth consecutive time that I was running for election to be the MLA in the Steinbach Constituency. Over that time, the constituency itself has changed, now representing a smaller geographic area as communities have grown in population. And each campaign finds political parties in different positions. This one had the Progressive Conservative Party, the banner under which I was running, seeking a third consecutive term in government. Manitoba historians will know that a third term of government in Manitoba is difficult to achieve.

Locally, the results filled us with gratitude. Other than my first election, which will always be particularly special, this one was most satisfying. Local residents offered their support at the ballot box that was among the strongest in the province. In fact, according to Elections Manitoba, it appears only the re-elected MLA for Flin Flon received a higher percentage of support. Given the difficulty of the past few years and the current challenges in the world, this support surpassed our expectation.

While we were unable to connect with every constituent during the election, we are grateful to the hundreds of local residents who offered kind words of encouragement. I also appreciate those who took the time to offer suggestions on how things can be improved in Manitoba. Those ideas and thoughts will benefit me in the term ahead.

Provincially overall, there was of course disappointment in not seeing the Progressive Conservative Party returned to government. Despite a strong economic and fiscal track record (which saw historic job numbers and a surplus budget) and record investments in healthcare and education, Manitobans elected an NDP government. While I had worked for a different outcome, I respect the democratic process and the decision of Manitobans. This past week, I had the opportunity to meet with Premier designate Wab Kinew to offer my congratulations and support in the orderly transfer of government. It is also worth noting the historic nature of the election as Mr. Kinew will become the first person of First Nations heritage elected as a provincial Premier in Canadian history.

I am also very grateful for the many people I had the opportunity to work with during seven and a half years in government. I was blessed to be able to serve along side many incredibly talented and dedicated civil servants and political staff. But, as I often said, I have only ever run for one position and that is as MLA for Steinbach and that is the job which I value the most. Without question, having been Minister of some of the largest and most challenging departments in government over the past seven and a half years has come at a cost of time away from home.

As we move into this period of transition, I am looking forward to being able to spend more time in the constituency and connect with local residents. Thank you again for your overwhelming support and your well wishes. Serving as your MLA is the honour of my life and I look forward to continuing in that role.