Former Manitoba cabinet minister, city councillor Kevin Klein to enter mayoral race
Kevin Klein said his mayoral campaign was launched in response to calls from members of the public who feel they've seen no change since Winnipeg's last election.
Former Manitoba cabinet minister and city councillor Kevin Klein announced on Tuesday that he will run for mayor of Winnipeg. Klein initially stated he would not seek the position in August but changed his mind after receiving numerous emails, messages, and texts from residents urging him to run.
If elected, Klein plans to prioritize transit improvements, reducing crime rates, and enhancing affordability. His campaign platform will be unveiled in the coming weeks and will address issues such as homeless encampments and property taxes. Klein criticized Winnipeg's current mayor, Scott Gillingham, for introducing hidden taxes like garbage collection fees and failing to fulfill campaign promises.
Klein previously served as a city councillor for Charleswood-Tuxedo-Westwood from 2018 to 2022 and ran for mayor unsuccessfully in the same year. He later became an MLA for Kirkfield Park in 2022 but resigned in September 2023. Currently, Klein is the president and CEO of the company that owns the Winnipeg Sun newspaper.
With 11 candidates registered for the race, the deadline to officially register as a candidate is Sept. 22. Winnipeg's next mayor will be chosen on Oct. 28. Gillingham, who plans to run for re-election, referred to Klein as a "toxic mayoral candidate" and accused him of targeting members of various political parties with personal criticisms.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Klein’s entrance adds spark to ho-hum mayoral race winnipegfreepress.com
