Heather Stefanson stepping down as Manitoba Progressive Conservative leader after loss to NDP
'It has been the honour of my life,' Stefanson tells supporters after party's loss in Tuesday election
Heather Stefanson is stepping down as leader of Manitoba's Progressive Conservative Party after the NDP won a majority government in Tuesday's provincial election.
"It has been the honour of my life serving the people of Manitoba with the many roles that I have held over the years," Stefanson told supporters gathered at the Canad Inns Fort Garry location Tuesday night.
"I respect the will of the voters, and today the voters have spoken."
Stefanson did not set a timeline for her departure, but said she looks forward to working with the party to ensure the replacement process goes smoothly and that the PCs will "hold the new government's feet to the fire."
"I have served in opposition in the past, so I understand the fundamental role that opposition plays in our democracy."
WATCH | Stefanson hopes Kinew's win inspires Indigenous youth:
Stefanson said she called NDP Leader Wab Kinew to congratulate him prior to her speech.
She also acknowledged the "historic nature" of Kinew's victory as the first elected First Nations premier of a Canadian province, saying while they don't always agree, the two both share a love for Manitoba.
"Wab, I hope that your win tonight inspires a future generation of Indigenous youth to get involved in our democratic process — not just here in Manitoba but right across the country," she said.
The race was a test for the PCs under Stefanson, who has never stood a provincial election as party leader.
She narrowly edged out rival candidate Shelly Glover in October 2021 to become leader of the Progressive Conservative party, following the resignation of premier Brian Pallister.
The veteran cabinet minister has represented west-central Winnipeg's Tuxedo riding for more than 20 years, after winning her first provincial election in 2000.
As of Wednesday morning, Stefanson had a 259-vote lead over NDP candidate Larissa Ashdown, but the seat remained too close to call.
WATCH | Stefanson stepping down as head of Manitoba PCs:
Stefanson thanked her family, volunteers and campaign staffers in her concession speech.
She also congratulated the new PC MLAs elected to sit in the legislature, but said her heart went out to other party members who lost their bids for re-election.
During their time in government, Stefanson said the PCs faced unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and subsequent economic pressures — "yet, we were able to move Manitoba forward."
"I stand before you feeling honoured to have served as your premier," she said.
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