CYPRESS HILLS — As the Saskatchewan provincial election approaches on Oct. 28, three candidates are vying for the seat in the Cypress Hills constituency. The race features the incumbent from the Saskatchewan Party, Doug Steele, and two challengers: Clare McNab from the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Doug Wilson from the Buffalo Party.
Doug Steele, Saskatchewan Party (Incumbent)
Steele, the sitting MLA for Cypress Hills, is seeking re-election under the Saskatchewan Party banner. First elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, Steele brings extensive experience from both his political career and the grain industry, where he spent 19 years in various roles, including marketing manager of an inland terminal. He has served on numerous committees, such as the Southwest Municipal Government and Southwest Area Transportation Committees, and chaired the Crown Lands Appeal Board.
In the legislature, Steele has taken on different roles including legislative secretary to the minister of energy and resources, deputy government whip, and has been a member of the Standing Committee on the Economy, among others.
Recognized for his service, Steele was awarded the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2005 and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Outside of politics, he and his wife Phyllis run a fourth-generation family farm.
Clare McNab, NDP
McNab is challenging for the Cypress Hills seat as the NDP candidate. With a background in nursing and a master of science in administration, McNab spent 27 years working with the Canadian government. Her career included a decade as a community health nurse and 17 years as a senior manager with the Correctional Service of Canada, during which she served as the warden of the Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge near Maple Creek.
A Métis woman residing in Maple Creek, McNab is campaigning on a platform of strengthening health care and education in the region, as well as advocating for a brighter future for residents in the constituency.
Doug Wilson, Buffalo Party
Representing the Buffalo Party, Wilson is also running for the Cypress Hills seat. As of Oct. 14, no detailed information about his background has been made available. The Buffalo Party's main goal has been to push for a referendum on Saskatchewan's independence, but its policies are often characterized as right-wing and populist. The Buffalo Party favours smaller government and lower taxes, and promotes individualism.
