Jackson elected party’s Manitoba caucus chair

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 20/05/2025 (310 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The province’s seven Conservative members of Parliament have elected Brandon-Souris MP Grant Jackson as chair of the Manitoba caucus — a regional leadership position that amplifies the province’s voice within the party’s ranks.

With the House of Commons set to reconvene on May 26, his selection adds another layer of responsibility to his already busy onboarding as a new MP.

“I’m humbled that my fellow Conservative MP colleagues here in Manitoba feel that I could serve in this role,” Jackson told the Sun. “It means supporting my colleagues, ensuring Manitoba issues are represented and heard from us as a unified group.”

The MPs from each province elect a caucus chair to co-ordinate regional efforts and liaise with the party’s national leadership. In his new role, Jackson will organize meetings with a wide array of stakeholders — from economic sectors to social service groups — and elevate their concerns at the national level.

“There’ll be lots more meetings and a more regional approach to things,” Jackson said. “But my first and foremost priority will always be serving the people of Brandon–Souris.”

The transition to federal politics comes with a steep learning curve, especially given the narrow timeline between the April 28 election and the House’s reopening later this month.

“It’s been very busy … lots of orientations, logistics, getting the office set up,” Jackson said.

He will retain former MP Larry McGuire’s office on 10th Street, providing a sense of continuity for constituents.

Despite being new to the federal arena, Jackson brings valuable political experience and insight, having previously worked as an MLA and serving in Parliament Hill roles, local Conservative electoral district association president Jordan Sisson told the Sun.

“Jackson is more than prepared. He knows what to do, and he’s not afraid to speak up when he needs to,” Sisson said. “He understands the roles within caucus and will really grab that role and run with it.”

Sisson emphasized the strategic importance of Jackson’s appointment, particularly for western Manitoba.

“It’s good for Westman that we’ve got a local voice leading the charge for Manitoba.”

Jackson outlined a series of pressing regional concerns he intends to take the lead on: inadequate infrastructure investment, the long-debated energy corridor connecting Alberta to the Port of Churchill, ongoing wildfires, and federal policies impacting agriculture and energy sectors.

“We know Manitoba municipalities need infrastructure support,” he said. “And we believe strongly that a northern energy corridor could be transformational for the province.”

On the national front, Jackson expressed deep concern over the absence of a federal budget this spring under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership.

“It’s very concerning … We’re going to get right down to holding this government to account,” he said, noting that he expects the session to begin with little to no honeymoon period.

While the role adds to his workload, Jackson views it as an opportunity to elevate Manitoba’s concerns and shape federal policy.

“We’ll be watching very closely to see if (Carney) is going to deliver on his promises or fall back into old habits.”

As he takes up the mantle of regional leadership, Jackson said he remains grounded in his commitment to local representation and national accountability.

“Just privileged and honoured,” he concluded. “Looking forward to getting to work.”

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

» X: @AbiolaOdutola