Saskatchewan Party Secures Fifth Consecutive Majority in 2024 Provincial Election

In a historic victory, the Saskatchewan Party has secured its fifth consecutive majority government, cementing its position as the dominant political force in the province. This win draws parallels to the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) under Tommy Douglas, which held five consecutive majorities from 1944 to 1961. Premier Scott Moe will once again lead Saskatchewan, continuing his tenure in office, with early projections confirming his seat in Rosthern-Shellbrook.

Saskatchewan Party’s Historic Win

The election results reveal that the Saskatchewan Party has won 32 ridings, surpassing the required 31-seat threshold for a majority government. Moe addressed his supporters at the Richardson Pioneer Recreation Centre in Shellbrook, where he expressed optimism about the province’s future.

“You know and believe, as do I, that Saskatchewan’s best days are still ahead of us. You believe that the Saskatchewan Party is the best choice to lead Saskatchewan to that brighter future,” Moe said during his victory speech.

While this election marks a significant win, Moe acknowledged the narrower margin compared to previous elections, signaling that the political landscape may be shifting.

“I’ve heard the message that was delivered here this evening, and the Saskatchewan Party will be a government that works for all of the people of Saskatchewan,” Moe remarked.

NDP Leader Carla Beck Strengthens Opposition

The New Democratic Party (NDP) made notable gains, increasing its presence in the legislature with 22 projected seats, compared to just 13 seats in the 2020 election. NDP leader Carla Beck, who retained her seat in Regina Lakeview, conceded the election but emphasized her party’s progress.

“Friends, we came so close,” Beck said to supporters at the DoubleTree Hotel in Regina. “We might not have crossed the finish line first tonight, but, my friends, we have changed the landscape in this province.”

Beck’s NDP achieved a stronger showing in several urban ridings, narrowing the Saskatchewan Party’s dominance. However, the rural-urban divide remains a key theme in this election, reflecting a nuanced political climate.

Urban-Rural Divide and Leadership Challenges

Former cabinet minister Donna Harpauer, who chose not to run for re-election, discussed the evolving dynamics in Saskatchewan’s political landscape. “Ultimately, in this province of Saskatchewan, we’re very center-focused. To keep both urban and rural voters engaged, you’ve got to stay balanced,” she explained.

Premier Moe, however, downplayed the idea of a deep provincial divide, emphasizing unity across voter groups.

“Regardless of who you voted for, you did so because you wanted what was best for the province that we know, love, and live in. In this, I would say, each of us is united,” Moe stated.

Other Party Leaders Struggle to Gain Ground

The Saskatchewan Party and NDP are projected to control the entire 61-seat legislature, with no seats expected to go to the smaller parties. Leaders of other registered parties failed to make a breakthrough:

Phil Zajac, leader of the Buffalo Party of Saskatchewan, was defeated in Estevan-Big Muddy by Saskatchewan Party candidate Lori Carr.

Jon Hromek, leader of the Saskatchewan United Party, lost to Blaine McLeod in Lumsden-Morse.

Naomi Hunter of the Green Party was defeated by the NDP’s Kim Breckner in Saskatoon Riversdale.

The lack of representation for these smaller parties reflects the continued polarization of Saskatchewan politics between the Saskatchewan Party and the NDP