Overview
Day 14 of the Manitoba election saw the first public debate between all three party leaders. During the 90-minute radio event, the leaders went toe-to-toe on health care, affordability, public safety, and the economy.
PC leader Heather Stefanson defended her government’s record while warning of the cost of an NDP government. The NDP’s Wab Kinew challenged Stefanson’s record and promised to re-open emergency rooms and build a health care system that could attract and retain talented health care workers. Liberal leader Dougald Lamont attacked both frontrunners attempting to situate himself as a middle-of-the road alternative.
At the end of the debate, Kinew asked Manitoba Liberal voters to consider shifting their support to help defeat the PCs. Being that the Manitoba Liberals currently only hold 3 seats and do not have a full slate of candidates, it is highly unlikely that they will form government. Kinew’s pitch shows just how close this election is. Both the Winnipeg ridings of Tyndall Park and St. Boniface are currently held by the liberals but could be narrowly picked up by the NDP—gains that could mean the difference between a loss and a victory for Kinew.
While not an exhaustive representation of public sentiment, 680 CJOB gave listeners a chance to share their thoughts after the debate. One caller identified themselves as a former PC voter, but said his vote is up for grabs. He has found Heather Stefanson to be too out of touch but would like to see more announcements about affordability measures from the NDP. Another caller was a clear swing voter as she had voted for all three parties in the past. In this election, she has decided to cast a vote for the NDP because of her assessment of the PCs poor performance on public services. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ pre- election survey findings were reflected by one caller saying they do not feel proper attention has been given to issues facing small businesses.
Campaign Announcements
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In the News
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- The Free Press- Housing fund just one piece of the puzzle
- Winnipeg Sun- No forced rehab, say Manitoba party leaders during election debate
- Winnipeg Sun- ‘WE ARE NOT TRASH’: Rallies call on Manitoba, feds to search landfill for murder victims