REGINA – Saskatchewan NDP leader Cam Broten says younger and more diverse candidates will make the party more successful when voters go to the polls in April.
In a wide-ranging, year-end interview, Broten told Global News a “generational renewal” was overdue after the party was blown out in the 2011 election, shrinking the NDP caucus from 20 MLAs to just nine.
“It was clear we hadn’t done that properly for a number of terms,” he said. “Not to disparage those who have contributed and contributed greatly, but every party needs to go through that process of welcoming new people.”
“Last election, we went in the wrong direction.”
Broten says the average age of nominated candidates – about half of them women – is 42, with many in their 30s. “A team that reflects Saskatchewan’s diversity,” he said.
The Opposition leader also reflected on the issues that dominated political headlines over the past year, such as carbon capture and a looming provincial budget deficit.
But a major focus now will be on making gains in 2016 – his first campaign since winning the party leadership in March 2013.
“Last election, we went in the wrong direction … things weren’t on the right track, but there’s opportunity in that as well. We’ve welcomed new candidates, new members of the team,” he said.
“That’s made us more reflective and more in-tune with what Saskatchewan people care about and for that I’m grateful.”
WATCH BELOW: Focus Saskatchewan’s extended sit down with NDP leader Cam Broten
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