2024: A Year of Elections – It’s Not Over Yet!
Half of the global population has or will be casting their votes this year. Here at home, British Columbia (BC) and Saskatchewan (SK) are preparing for significant elections.
- BC’s election concludes on October 19, following an ‘eventful’ campaign.
- SK’s election takes place from October 22-28 and has been relatively ‘quiet.’
Why This Matters to You:
As political landscapes change, staying informed is crucial for strategic decisions and mitigating operational risk. Political risk is business risk!
BC’s ‘eventful’ campaign concludes on October 19.
The governing BC NDP, led by Premier David Eby, faces challenges from a resurgent BC Conservatives and the BC Greens, both looking to address voter concerns about economic stability, public safety, and environmental initiatives. Voter turnout and regional dynamics will likely impact this closely watched election’s outcome.
For those in the Prairies, BC provides vital access to key USA and Asian markets for many of our critical exports and imports. The province’s infrastructure, labour relations, and political climate can significantly affect our economic well-being, both directly and indirectly.
I recommend these podcasts for an in-depth look into BC politics. I’ve collaborated with some of the hosts, and they provide excellent insights. Highly recommended!
SK’s ‘quiet’ election wraps up on October 28.
Polling in SK presents challenges, and in my opinion, does not fully reflect the grassroot sentiment(s) shaping the political scene on a riding by riding basis. But, that’s just my take.
The SaskParty, under Premier Scott Moe, is seeking its fifth consecutive term. They currently hold 42 seats, while the SK NDP has 14. The Saskatchewan United Party (SUP) holds 1 seat, with 4 seats either vacant or occupied by independents.
To retain power, the SaskParty must secure at least 31 of its seats. The SK NDP needs to defend its 14 seats and gain an additional 17 to form a majority government. Each party faces the challenge posed by the 25%-30% of undecided voters, a figure that varies depending on the poll and day.
Regardless of the election outcome, there could be up to 34 new MLAs!
With up to 34 new MLAs potentially joining the legislature, the next session will bring significant change, inexperience, and a steep learning curve. For businesses, organizations, and leaders, this shift presents both opportunities and risks. It’s crucial to adapt your engagement strategy to navigate this evolving political landscape effectively.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back—book a FREE 15-minute Risk Therapy session today! Get the insights you need to feel confident and well-prepared this November.
