The Saskatchewan provincial election scheduled for October 28, 2024, is generating buzz as both the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Saskatchewan Party ramp up their campaigns. With mounting excitement, voters are anticipating what could be one of the province's most competitive elections yet, as polling data suggests changing tides.
At the forefront of the NDP's campaign, leader Carla Beck is rallying support across the province, proclaiming confidence among party ranks. Recently, during her engagement with the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour, she boldly stated, “We’re winning this thing.” Beck emphasized the importance of getting out to vote, especially targeting constituencies the party has not won for decades, such as Yorkton and White City-Qu’Appelle.
Poll results released by CTV News and Insightrix Research indicate NDP's momentum with around 50% of decided voters leaning toward them, compared to approximately 45% for the Saskatchewan Party. These figures represent a shift from previous polls and mark one of the first times the NDP has taken the lead as election day approaches. Beck is optimistic, attributing the rising support to her party’s message focusing on progressive change, which she believes resonates with issues important to Saskatchewan residents.
Contrastingly, Saskatchewan Party leader Scott Moe is not backing down. While holding rallies and maintaining high energy among supporters, Moe has also warned against the risks of vote-splitting, underlining the necessity for voters to consolidate their choices if they wish to avert the NDP from gaining power. Moe stated, “This is your Saskatchewan Party choice... If you want to have more money in your pocket and a government promoting Saskatchewan's interests, then this is your party.”
The campaign tactics are centered around targeted constituencies. Prince Albert, historically significant and currently seen as up for grabs, is one of two key battleground areas, along with another constituency, Martensville-Blairmore. Both party leaders have zeroed in on these regions, making repeated appearances and appealing directly to local concerns.
Beck noted, “We are going to be campaigning in constituencies we haven’t won for 20 years,” showing the NDP's strategy is focusing on invigorated engagement with traditionally loyal Saskatchewan Party areas. Notably, the NDP’s approach of mobilizing grassroots support reflects their intensive door-knocking efforts and positive messaging, which Beck believes has contributed to newfound enthusiasm within the electorate.
Experts have cautioned parties about the volatile nature of election polling, with University of Saskatchewan scholars stating the current NDP lead may not hold. Insightrix Research director Lang McGilp expressed, “They’re still very, very close and still within the margin of error. We are seeing a slight shift since about a month ago but nothing is set.” It’s an intriguing premise—while one side celebrates potential gains, the other remains vigilant against complacency.
Meanwhile, both parties have adopted superstitions and strategic rituals during their respective campaigns, echoing beliefs similar to athletes gearing up for big games. Candidates have engaged in various traditions to mentally prepare and connect with supporters, drawing on personal anecdotes and lucky charms. Beck, for example, enjoys witnessing the democratic process on election day, mentioning she relishes observing as residents participate actively.
Scott Moe likens the election race to the final stretch of excitement within a hockey game, stating, “It’s the most exciting time for a politician.” His own lucky charm, a cow-shaped stress ball introduced during the last election, is back on the campaign trail, symbolizing his connection with past sentiments.
Such rituals are not mere anecdotes; they serve as tools for candidates to maintain morale and stay grounded. Carla Beck’s link to her mother’s supposed good luck charms, like the orange scarf she tends to wear, adds to the colorful backdrop of political competition. Each candidate’s own rituals highlight the intense personal investment they have poured not only to win but to connect emotionally with voters.
Overall, the looming election looks to be marked by fierce competition, as both sides work to galvanize support and consolidate their bases. With the latest polling giving the NDP hope of breaking years of Saskatchewan Party dominance, candidates will focus not only on securing victory but also on addressing key issues surrounding the economy, healthcare, and education—topics central to voters’ concerns.
Whether these strategies will pay off on election day remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the energy on the ground is palpable, and Saskatchewan residents are primed to make their voices heard. With car horns honking, campaign materials being distributed, and supporters cheering on their respective parties, every detail counts as the final stretch approaches.
