The Liberal Party secured a minority government in the 2025 federal election, while Conservative incumbent Branden Leslie retained his Portage-Lisgar seat with a commanding majority.
Conservative stronghold endures
Leslie, first elected in a 2023 by-election, called the win “an incredibly humbling experience” during his victory speech. He thanked voters for their trust and vowed to advocate for rural communities, farmers, firearms owners and small businesses.
“It’s been a whirlwind experience and I think I’m even more humbled by the tremendous response and support that we’ve received locally.”
Priorities and policy clashes
Leslie criticized the Liberal government for adopting Conservative policies during the campaign and pledged to push for their implementation. He framed his re-election as a mandate to uphold what he called “the promise of Canada” — the idea that hard work and fairness should guarantee a decent quality of life.
“If you work hard, you play by the rules, you pay your taxes, you can get ahead. You can have a decent quality of life.”
The MP added that his Conservative caucus would hold the minority government to account, stating, “I’m going to do my level best, and I know our Conservative team will too, every single day in Ottawa.”
Stay posted for updates on his remarks on the overall national results.
Conservative incumbent James Bezan has been elected for Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman, while incumbent Conservative Dan Mazier was the winner in Riding Mountain.