Manitoba Politician Kelvin Goertzen to Exit Political Scene

Kelvin Goertzen, a prominent figure in Manitoba politics who briefly held the role of premier, has announced he will not seek re-election in the upcoming vote scheduled for October 5, 2027. After serving for over two decades in the legislature, Goertzen cited his desire to allow new candidates the opportunity to step forward as a key reason for his decision.

At the age of 56, Goertzen stated that announcing his intentions early will provide ample time for the local constituency association and potential candidates to navigate the nomination process. “It really was about giving the party and the local association time to work through a nomination process,” he explained during an interview on Wednesday.

Goertzen’s Legacy and Contributions

Representing the Steinbach constituency, located southeast of Winnipeg, Goertzen has been a member of the legislative assembly for 22 years. His decision comes at a time when several critical projects in his area, including hospital and highway upgrades, are nearing completion.

Goertzen is well-regarded for his skills in debate and has served in multiple cabinet roles, including as Minister of Health and Education and Deputy Premier. His tenure as leader was marked by his selection as interim party leader after Brian Pallister resigned in 2021. Goertzen led the Progressive Conservatives for two months until Heather Stefanson was elected as the new party leader.

“He’s been the person the party has turned to when there’s been an important need,” said Christopher Adams, an adjunct professor of political science at the University of Manitoba.

During his brief time as premier, Goertzen took decisive actions, including withdrawing five controversial bills, one of which aimed to eliminate most elected school boards. His leadership has been characterized by a focus on family priorities over personal ambition, as he consistently opted out of leadership races.

Political Landscape and Future Outlook

Goertzen is not the only member of the Progressive Conservative Party announcing plans to exit. Doyle Piwniuk, representing Turtle Mountain, has also declared he will not seek re-election. This follows a challenging period for the Tories, who are working to recover from their defeat in the 2023 election. Current opinion polls indicate they remain significantly behind the governing New Democrats, who have been raising more funds since the election.

Goertzen expressed optimism regarding the party’s future under the leadership of Obby Khan, who took charge in April. He noted his confidence in the party’s ability to rebuild, drawing on past experiences when they recovered after losing office in 1999. “I can see optimism in how things are changing,” he stated.

Khan acknowledged Goertzen’s invaluable experience and insight into the political landscape, stating, “I revere Kelvin’s counsel. His insight and understanding of the political landscape are unparalleled.” He also mentioned that the party is preparing for the possibility of an early election, which Premier Wab Kinew has suggested could occur.

Looking ahead, Goertzen shared his plans to spend more time with his family. “By the time the next election comes around, I will have served about 24 years in the Manitoba legislature. The way our laws are in our country, if you murder somebody you get 25 years. So I think I can probably get paroled out of the legislature at 24 years,” he humorously remarked.