NDP minister needs lesson in political civility
Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine’s decision to intercede in Winnipeg’s mayoral election may be surprising to some political observers. To others, however, it is entirely on brand. On Tuesday, Fontaine posted […]
Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine's intervention in Winnipeg's mayoral election has sparked controversy. Some view her actions as surprising, while others see them as in line with her brand of political behavior. Fontaine posted a video on social media expressing her concerns about former city councillor and Progressive Conservative cabinet minister Kevin Klein running for mayor.
She criticized Klein for once working for Peter Nygard, a fashion mogul who was later convicted of sex offences. While Klein claims the visits were for business and he was accompanied by his wife, Fontaine's intervention raises questions about her role as a minister and the appropriateness of commenting on a mayoral candidate. Her decision to voice her concerns about Klein's background could be seen as an attempt to inform voters, but it also undermines political decorum and tradition.
Fontaine has a history of outspoken and occasionally controversial comments, including a public outburst in June 2025 at a celebration for Indigenous women university graduates. Despite this, she remains one of the most outspoken and determined ministers in Premier Wab Kinew's government, albeit also one of the most divisive and sometimes indiscreet.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
