Cheveldayoff, to run, Reiter sits out race for Wall’s job

Ken Cheveldayoff will be the third candidate into the race to succeed retiring premier Brad Wall.

Cheveldayoff on Wednesday attended his last cabinet meeting as minister of parks, culture and sport before the Sask. Party leadership vote. Cheveldayoff will step away from his cabinet post and make his official announcement on Monday in Saskatoon.

The Saskatoon-Willowgrove MLA said Thursday having grown up in rural Saskatchewan and now living in Saskatoon has given him a great understanding of all areas of the province. He also noted his seven cabinet posts during his career. Cheveldayoff has held portfolios ranging from northern affairs to Crown corporations to environment and First Nation and Metis affairs.

Cheveldayoff was first elected in 2003 and re-elected in 2007, 2011 and 2016.

In a video posted to Twitter, Gord Wyant, who served as justice minister and attorney general, hinted that he, too, will be running for leader of the Sask. Party. The video depicts someone starting up a Harley-Davidson motorcycle with text reading “Ready to Roll.” It says an announcement in Saskatoon will be made Friday morning.

In a bit of a surprise move to political watchers, Health Minister Jim Reiter announced Thursday he wouldn’t seek the Sask. Party leadership, which will also decide the next premier.

Reiter says he won’t run partly due to family health issues.

“After careful consideration, I have decided not to enter the Saskatchewan Party leadership race. A number of factors have impacted my decision, including family health issues that need to be dealt with in the next few months,” Reiter said in a statement Thursday.

“My family and serving the constituents of Rosetown-Elrose will always be my priority.”

Reiter says he looks forward to working with and supporting the new premier.

A leadership vote is scheduled for Jan. 27.

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