Long-serving Tory MLA, former Premier Kelvin Goertzen won’t seek re-election
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Veteran Steinbach politician Kelvin Goertzen, a former cabinet minister and briefly Manitoba’s premier, announced he won’t run for re-election.
The 56-year-old PC MLA said in a Tuesday statement he’s making his plans known now so a future candidate will have time to prepare for the next election.
“I hope my announcement today, more than two years into the current electoral mandate, gives those interested in seeking the PC nomination in Steinbach time to consider, time to plan, and time to transition with my successor,” he said.
Goertzen has represented Steinbach for 22 consecutive years after winning his first election in 2003. He said he’s honoured by the community’s support throughout the six elections he ran in, and called it ” humbling.”
Goertzen held multiple cabinet positions when his party was in government from 2016 to 2023. The portfolios include health, justice, education and deputy premier.
He also served as Manitoba’s premier for two months when Brian Pallister resigned in 2021. Goertzen was later replaced when Heather Stefanson became PC leader and premier.
“I could’ve never imagined that I would have the opportunities that I have been given in provincial politics. It is a testament to the greatness of Manitoba and the people who call it home,” he said.
Throughout his career, Goertzen saw multiple completed projects in the Southeast, including a new elementary school in Steinbach, improvements to Highway 12 and the dialysis services at Bethesda Regional Health Centre.
Goertzen praised PC leader Obby Khan’s vision for the party and said he’s become a “good friend.”
He said he hopes to be in attendance when Khan takes “his oath of office as premier of Manitoba.”
Khan thanked his colleague for his years of service to Steinbach and Manitoba.
“I revere Kelvin’s counsel. His insight and understanding of the political landscape are unparalleled,” he said in a Wednesday statement.
Khan called Goertzen a “trusted mentor and a dear friend” and said he will be missed.
Manitoba’s next election is slated for Oct. 5, 2027.