Steve Lambert and Brittany Hobson, The Canadian Press

Wab Kinew, who is to become Canada's first First Nations provincial premier, spoke to young Indigenous people and those from all backgrounds in his victory speech Tuesday after the NDP won a majority in the Manitoba election. 

"I was given a second chance in life," Kinew said to a cheering crowd. "And I would like to think that I have made good on that opportunity. And you can do the same." 

The New Democrats had an early lead in several key constituencies in Manitoba's historic election Tuesday, while the Progressive Conservatives were ahead in rural areas and the Liberal leader resigned after losing his seat. 

The NDP were ahead in many areas of Winnipeg, including key ridings that had been held by members of the Progressive Conservative cabinet. The provincial capital, where 32 of the 57 legislature seats are, was considered an important battleground for both parties.

Manitobans were poised to make history whatever the outcome.