With the official start of the provincial election campaign, we are taking the chance to learn more about the candidates in our area. As candidates are declared for a party (or announce the intention to run as an independent candidate) we are asking them a series of questions: What is the main focus of their party in the election, why do they want to represent the riding of Weyburn-Big Muddy and what do they think are the issues affecting the riding. 

Buffalo Party candidate Collin Keith (submitted photo)This afternoon, we are featuring the candidate for the Buffalo Party – Collin Keith. Keith moved to the Weyburn area in 2006 with his wife Kerri and their three daughters. He is a journeyman electrician by trade and has worked across the three western provinces. He is currently with the facilities maintenance team for the South East Cornerstone Public School Division, and prior to that, he ran his own electrical contracting company.  

We asked Keith what the focus for the Buffalo Party will be during this election. 

“The party really wants to focus on Saskatchewan independence,” Keith explained. “We believe the hardworking people of Saskatchewan deserve to be supported by their government. The Buffalo Party intends to play hardball with Ottawa and to push constitutional boundaries so we can achieve a fair deal for Saskatchewan.” 

 

As a first time political candidate, we asked Keith why he decided to run in the riding of Weyburn-Big Muddy. 

People are totally fed up with government mismanagement; people are really tired of paying for highways and repairs in central Canada, and they’re disgusted that our tax dollars are being invested overseas,” Keith stated. “Our people watch the federal bills that strangle our industries, our livelihood. I decided that I would run in this riding and be willing to do what I can for positive change.” 

 

As for what the challenges are for the riding? 

We need to ensure that the R.M.s of Weyburn-Big Muddy have adequate funding to stay on budget, and to maintain their responsibilities,” Keith said. “In our constituency, there are no incentives for doctors in Weyburn – we keep losing them, also the surrounding areas. We lack resources in the mental health department, and on top of all of that we are concerned about the economic recovery due to COVID-19.” 

 

There are two other declared candidates for the riding of Weyburn-Big Muddy so far. Dustin Duncan, the incumbent, will be representing the Saskatchewan Party, while Regan Lanning is the candidate for the NDP.