Manitoba Liberals a 'wild card' in April election

A year ago the Manitoba Liberals were "dead in the water," but today they are alive and kicking, says political analyst Christopher Adams.

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If an election was held today the Manitoba Liberal Partywould be competing with Progressive Conservatives for seats, he said. The NDP would have the fewest seats.

"We've seen three polls since early-December come out ... they were done according to a proper methodology. All three of them have the NDP in third place," said Adams.

The Liberals are in effect this election's "wild card,"said Adams. One reason for the surge in popularity is thesuccess of federal Liberals last October, he said.

"This time around you wonder about the brand halo of Justin Trudeau and that there are people who are proud to declare themselves Liberals," he said.

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The Manitoba Liberals brought on some well-known Winnipeggersincludingformer Global News anchor PeterChuraand Indigenous community activist AltheaGuiboche. Currently,Jon Gerrard holds the only Liberalseat in the provincial legislature.

"We're seeing candidates who are gravitating to the Liberal party who are credible candidates," said Adams.

Manitoba's election takes place April 19, 2016.