New candidates are stepping up to the plate with the federal election underway, with the Conservative Party of Canada also floating a new candidate with the upcoming retirement of Souris-Moose Mountain MP Dr. Robert Kitchen.
Following a candidacy run, the party selected current Moosomin MLA Steven Bonk to run for the CPC. Since then, he's been on a tour of southeast communities hosting meet-and-greets.
Why are you running for Souris-Moose Mountain?
"I’m running to be the Member of Parliament for Souris–Moose Mountain because this is where my roots run deep. Both my wife and I are the fifth generation of our families from this region, and we remain actively involved in my family’s ranch north of Glenavon. This land, these communities, and the people here have shaped who I am."
"For the past eight years, I’ve had the honour of representing the northern part of Souris–Moose Mountain in the Saskatchewan Legislature, including serving as Minister of Economy and Trade, Minister of Innovation, Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan. Whether in business or in government, my focus has always been on advancing our industries and standing up for the people who drive our economy."
What are your top priorities if you get into office?
"If elected as the Member of Parliament for Souris–Moose Mountain, my top priorities will be to put Canada First, for a change, and reflect the values, strengths, and economic realities of our region."
"First and foremost, I will focus on unleashing our natural resource sector. Souris–Moose Mountain is home to some of the most productive energy and agricultural assets in the country. Our region powers this province and contributes significantly to Canada’s economy. But under the current Liberal government, we’ve seen resource development stalled by endless red tape, punitive regulations, and a carbon tax that punishes the very people who fuel and feed this country."
"We need to restore common sense. That means supporting energy producers, farmers, and the thousands of workers who depend on these industries—not making their lives harder. As someone who has spent their career working in international trade, I know how to promote responsible development while opening new markets for our products. Canada has the resources the world needs—oil, gas, potash, uranium, and agriculture products—and it’s time to lead again."
American tariffs and their effects are a big issue - how would you address that?
"We will focus on making Canada self-reliant by breaking down interprovincial trade barriers, implementing a Bring it Home Tax Cut to lower costs and boost our economy, and repeal anti-energy laws. Further, we plan to introduce a Canada First TFSA Top-Up, allowing Canadians to contribute an extra $5000 to invest in Canadian companies, and the Canada First Reinvestment Tax Cut which will remove capital gains taxes if they invest in Canada."
"As someone who has spent much of my career working in international trade—including as Saskatchewan’s Minister of Economy and Trade—I understand how to navigate these complex issues. I’ve worked directly with international partners and advocated for Saskatchewan’s industries at the highest levels. In Ottawa, I will bring that same experience and determination to defend our producers."
Many locals are worried about rural crime rates - what would you do to address those?
"Rural crime is a growing concern in Souris–Moose Mountain, and I hear from many local families and farmers who are worried about their safety. Under the Lost Liberal Decade, violent crime is up 50% and car theft is up 46%. This crime wave is not an accident. The Liberals soft-on-crime policies have made our communities less safe."
"Every Canadian deserves to feel safe, and that includes the hardworking people of rural Saskatchewan. I will stand up for our communities and ensure that criminals are held accountable and rural residents have the protection they need."
What other issues specific to the riding would you like to see addressed?
"Souris–Moose Mountain is a trade-dependent region, and the challenges we are facing today are a direct result of over a decade of the Liberal Government neglecting our international relationships and trade policy. Our region thrives when we have access to global markets, and unfortunately, the current situation shows how crucial strong, strategic trade policies are."
"Policy matters. Over the past ten years, neglect and weak trade policies have placed unnecessary barriers in the way of our industries and created instability for the businesses and workers who rely on trade to succeed. I understand the importance of a proactive approach that prioritizes our industries and opens doors for Canadian products around the world."
How would you work with the provincial and municipal levels of government?
"As an MLA for the past eight years, I’ve built strong relationships at both the provincial and municipal levels. I understand how critical cooperation is between all levels of government."
"As a Member of Parliament, I’ll bring a collaborative, respectful approach—working with provincial and municipal leaders to deliver results. I’ll ensure Souris–Moose Mountain has a strong voice in Ottawa that understands how to work as a partner."
How would you like to see the country grow over the next few years?
"I want to see Canada grow in a way that reflects the common sense values we live by here in Souris–Moose Mountain—where hard work, personal responsibility, and practical decision-making guide everyday life. For too long, we’ve seen bloated government programs and decisions that ignore the realities of rural and working Canadians."
"Under a Conservative government, we’ll return to fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and energy independence. That means building homes—not bureaucracy—cutting red tape for small businesses and producers, and supporting industries that drive prosperity, like agriculture, energy, and manufacturing."
"The people of Souris–Moose Mountain are practical, grounded, and proud of their contributions to this country. I want to bring that spirit to Ottawa—and help build a Canada that works for those who grow our food, fuel our economy, and raise the next generation."