Heather Stefanson stepping down as Manitoba Progressive Conservative leader after loss to NDP

Heather Stefanson is stepping down as leader of Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative Party after the NDP won a majority government in Tuesday’s provincial election.

“It has been the honour of my life serving the people of Manitoba with the many roles that I have held over the years,” Stefanson told supporters gathered at the Canad Inns Fort Garry location Tuesday night.

“I respect the will of the voters, and today the voters have spoken.”

Stefanson did not set a timeline for her departure, but said she looks forward to working with the party to ensure the replacement process goes smoothly and that the PCs will “hold the new government’s feet to the fire.”

She also acknowledged the “historic nature” of NDP Leader Wab Kinew’s victory as the first elected First Nations premier in Manitoba, saying while they don’t always agree, the two both share a love for Manitoba.

“Wab, I hope that your win tonight inspires a future generation of Indigenous youth to get involved in our democratic process — not just here in Manitoba but right across the country,” she said.

WATCH | Stefanson stepping down as head of Manitoba PCs:

Stefanson stepping down as PC leaderHeather Stefanson’s Tuxedo seat seat is still in the balance, but she is resigning as the leader of the PC party. The former premier stepped down Tuesday as an orange wave sent the NDP to a majority government.

The race was a test for the PCs under Stefanson, who has never stood a provincial election as party leader.

She narrowly edged out rival candidate Shelly Glover in October 2021 to become leader of the Progressive Conservative party, following the resignation of premier Brian Pallister.

The veteran cabinet minister has represented west-central Winnipeg’s Tuxedo riding for more than 20 years, after winning her first provincial election in 2000.