NDP’s Shannon Corbett wins Transcona byelection

Voters in Transcona have reaffirmed their support for the New Democratic Party (NDP) to represent them in the Manitoba legislature.

Shannon Corbett successfully retained the seat for the NDP after Tuesday’s byelection. Elections Manitoba reported that Corbett garnered 3,616 votes, representing 64 per cent of the total votes cast across all polling stations.

“This has been an incredible experience and I’m so honoured to join the team that is making a real difference in the lives of Transconians and Manitobans,” said Corbett. “I’m proud to pick up the torch lit by our former MLA and my friend Nello Altomare. I can’t wait to get to work on behalf of the families of Transcona.”

Other contenders in the race included Shawn Nason from the Progressive Conservatives, Brad Boudreau from the Liberals, and Independent candidate Susan Auch.

This byelection was prompted by the passing of Nello Altomare earlier this year in January, following a battle with cancer.

Corbett had worked closely with Altomare throughout his political career, including serving as his fundraising chair during both of his provincial election campaigns.

Since the creation of the Transcona riding in 1969, the NDP has held a dominant position in the area, with only two exceptions—once in 1988 when the Liberals won, and again in 2016 when the Progressive Conservatives claimed the seat.

Premier of Manitoba Wab Kinew welcomed Corbett as the newly elected MLA for Transcona.

“Shannon is going to be an incredible MLA,’ said Kniew. “An educator, a volunteer, Transcona born and bred. She’s going to embody that blue collar work ethic that makes this community so special. Together we’re going to bring more seniors care and a new school to Transcona families.”