The Saskatchewan New Democratic Party (NDP) made significant inroads in urban areas in the recent provincial election, securing 27 seats, up from their previous total, including a sweep of all seats in Regina and all but one in Saskatoon. However, the Saskatchewan Party, which has held power since 2007, retained its majority largely by securing rural ridings, with the exception of the two northernmost seats in the province. Carla Beck, leader of the Saskatchewan NDP, expressed pride in the campaign’s success despite the party remaining in opposition.
In an interview with Discover Weyburn, Beck shared her key takeaways from the election, noting the party's growth in support across Saskatchewan. “We knew going in that we had a mountain to climb, but we got close,” Beck said. “There were a lot of people looking for change in this election, so overall, I’m proud and now energized to take on the next four years as the official opposition.”
Beck highlighted how the increased representation in the legislature changes the dynamics for the NDP, allowing them to voice the concerns of a wider segment of the population. “We have more members, more resources, and a great team of veteran MLAs and new representatives who are connected to their communities and eager to deliver for Saskatchewan people,” Beck said.
The election underscored the continued urban-rural divide in Saskatchewan, with the NDP’s support concentrated in urban areas and the Saskatchewan Party maintaining its rural stronghold. While Beck acknowledged this division, she emphasized that her party’s focus remains on common concerns. “The number one issues, regardless of postal code, were the same: cost of living, healthcare, education, and safe communities,” she said, reaffirming the NDP’s commitment to represent all regions of the province, including rural areas.
A key criticism the NDP faced in some rural areas, such as Weyburn, where the party has historical roots, was the lack of visible campaigning. Addressing this, Beck acknowledged the need to strengthen grassroots connections. “Weyburn is also my birthplace,” she noted. “With more resources and a bigger team, you will see more time invested in growing our presence in communities across the province.”
With a narrow majority in the Legislative Assembly, Beck anticipates a more competitive environment, noting that both sides will need to be diligent in keeping members present for legislative sessions. She expressed optimism about the party’s future, citing a strong voter turnout for change and a growing alignment with NDP messaging. “People saw a team talking about what mattered to them,” she said. “For many, it was the first time they felt hope in a long time.”
As the NDP prepares to return to the Legislative Assembly, Beck expressed eagerness to begin working with a strengthened opposition team, emphasizing the importance of mentorship for the newly elected members. “Our veteran MLAs are looking forward to guiding our new members,” she said, reflecting on the honour of representing Saskatchewan residents.
With the Legislature set to resume soon, Beck and the NDP aim to hold the government accountable, hoping to build on the momentum gained in this election and increase their reach across the province.