Saskatchewan New Democrats will maintain their contingent of 11 seats in the Legislature following Monday night’s Meewasin byelection victory. Nathaniel Teed, a former educational assistant and current business owner, emerged with the victory over nearest opponent, Sask Party candidate Kim Groff. Teed maintained the seat held by former NDP leader Ryan Meili, left vacant after Meili’s resignation.

Groff came away with 37 percent of the vote. Also in the race were provincial Liberal leader Jeff Walters, who finished a distant third, the Buffalo Party’s Mark Friesen, and Jacklin Andrews of the Green Party. 

In a release, NDP leader Carla Beck had this to say:

““I am truly honoured to welcome Nathaniel Teed to the NDP team – our newest and youngest member of the Saskatchewan legislature. Nathaniel inspired so many people in the riding with his hard work, dedication, and unbridled enthusiasm. As a business owner, advocate and former educator, Nathaniel is going to be such a strong voice for the people of Saskatoon-Meewasin and deserves every bit of this win. This victory is for all the people that are sick of Sask. Party tax hikes and demand action on the high cost of living, good paying jobs and healthcare that’s there when you need it.”

Beck went on to say that Teed’s victory was historic for the province, as he is the first openly gay member of the Legislative Assembly.

“I can only imagine what this win means to the 2SLGBTQ+ community, both young and old, that can finally see themselves reflected in their Legislature,” Beck stated.

The Sask Party continues to hold 48 seats, the NDP maintains their 11, and Nadine Rivers of the Saskatchewan Rivers Constituency sits as the sole independent in the Legislature.