Colleen Robbins Claims Narrow Win in Souris Byelection by 70 Votes

UPDATE: The Progressive Conservative Party has secured a narrow victory in the Souris byelection, with candidate Colleen Robbins winning by just 70 votes over NDP contender Ray Berthelette. As news broke around 8:00 PM on September 26, 2023, Robbins celebrated her win alongside PC leader Obby Khan at Woodfire Deli, where approximately 50 supporters cheered her name.

Robbins garnered 2,805 votes compared to Berthelette’s 2,735, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the Spruce Woods riding. “A win is a win,” Robbins stated, emphasizing the collective effort behind her campaign. “Now my work starts,” she added, reflecting on her commitment to constituents.

Despite the win, the results were a stark contrast to previous elections, where the PCs had never received less than 61% of the vote since the riding was established in 2011. Robbins’ share was only 46.7%, down from the 61.8% achieved by Grant Jackson in the last general election. Voter turnout was recorded at 40.7%, a notable decline from 56.5% in the previous election.

Berthelette conceded the election shortly after the results were announced, stating there were no plans for a recount. He called the close race “amazing,” given that he started with a deficit of over 3,000 votes. NDP leader Wab Kinew characterized the result as a “test” for Khan and criticized the PC leader for not successfully leveraging the recent $300 million funding announcement made by the NDP government for the region.

Khan responded, asserting that the people of Spruce Woods cannot be swayed by “empty promises.” He expressed pride in the PC’s resilience, indicating that the party has a positive trajectory moving forward. “We’re only going up, and that’s a good place to be,” he said, urging the Premier to fulfill commitments made during the campaign.

Robbins, a former nurse and longstanding Tory volunteer, drew parallels to the narrow victory of Leanne Rowat in 2003, who later won by larger margins in subsequent elections. “Like her, I will prove myself to this constituency and I will work hard for them,” Robbins affirmed.

The byelection was called after Jackson resigned from his position in March 2023 to pursue a federal seat. It was initiated by Kinew on July 25, exactly 123 days post-resignation. With Robbins’ victory, the Opposition now holds 21 seats in the 57-seat legislature, while the governing NDP maintains 34 seats.

The implications of this byelection are significant for both parties, as they prepare for the next general election in just two years. The close results highlight a shifting political dynamic in a traditionally conservative riding, setting the stage for future electoral battles.

As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Robbins as she takes on her new role, promising to represent the interests of her constituents with dedication and focus.

This breaking news is developing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.