REGINA – Since Stephen Harper stepped down as leader of the federal Conservatives after the party’s October 19 election defeat, the name of Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall has frequently been floated as a possible successor.
It doesn’t seem to matter that Wall continually insists he has no interest in the role. His popularity (above 60 per cent for years) and newly found role as the voice of conservative provincial leaders has him in the conversation about a potential jump to federal politics.
During a year-end interview with Global News, Wall didn’t even allow the question about a Conservative leadership bid to finish before quickly offering, “No.”
“Any time anyone asks or speculates, it’s kind of humbling,” Wall said. “It’s an honour to be thought about as a possible candidate, even though I will not be.”
However, what would he find attractive about the position? Trade agreements.
“Especially in Canada, where we have such a small population and such vast resources and economic potential, we need to be traders, as we are in Saskatchewan. So that part intrigues me.”
“I’d be interested in this issue of trade and trying to expand the opportunities for Canada.”
Wall noted a $15-billion increase in Saskatchewan exports since his party was elected in 2007, delivered, in part, by believing in engagement through trade missions and fostering a relationships with India and China.
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“I hope the federal government continues, as Prime Minister Trudeau has said they would, which is to focus on trade,” he said.
Having led the province for eight years, Wall says he hasn’t planned how long he wants to stay in provincial politics.
“I’m applying for the job again and it’s a four year term. I just think you take each of those stages one-at-a-time.”
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