Canadian Press: Former Manitoba premier Gary Doer offers support to former party ahead of election
Former Manitoba Premier Gary Doer resurfaced on the province’s political scene Tuesday to support current NDP Leader Wab Kinew on the campaign trail for the Oct. 3 provincial election.
Doer, who led the NDP to three consecutive majorities and enjoyed strong public support before retiring in 2009, said he has seen Kinew listen to people and bring them together.
While it’s not unusual for a former premier to endorse the new leader of their party, Doer’s endorsement is notable because he was popular beyond party lines and his support may win over some voters who don’t traditionally vote NDP, said political analyst Paul Thomas.
“He won back-to-back-to-back elections on the basis of hitting that sweet spot in the Manitoba political culture where pragmatism meets progressive thinking,” said Thomas, professor emeritus of political studies at the University of Manitoba.