SWIFT CURRENT, Sask. — Saskatchewan voters handed Brad Wall and the Saskatchewan Party a majority government Nov. 7, ending 16 years of NDP rule.
Unofficial results showed the Saskatchewan Party with 37 seats and the NDP with 21. The standings heading into the campaign were NDP 30, Sask. Party 28.
Recounts in close ridings are likely, but rural Saskatchewan continued its support for the right-of-centre Sask. Party and urban voters also moved that way.
The party earned 52 percent of the popular vote, winning seats in Regina, where it was shut out four years ago, and gaining additional seats in Saskatoon.
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It also took Yorkton and Saskatchewan Rivers away from the NDP. Once again the Liberals were shut out; leader David Karwacki failed to win his Saskatoon seat.
The premier designate said his government would not ignore farmers and agriculture.
Premier Lorne Calvert told party faithful, assembled in Saskatoon election night, that the NDP would begin rebuilding their position in rural ridings soon after the government transition is complete.
“We have some work to do in the rural areas. The voters of Saskatchewan have spoken. They wanted change. They are getting change. The New Democratic Party was listening and we be acting on what we’ve heard,” said Calvert.
The premier said the NDP would work to ensure a rapid and smooth transition to a new Saskatchewan Party government.
Premier elect Brad Wall said he expects to call for a fall sitting of the legislature.
