Karen Purdy, a licensed practical nurse, has been chosen by New Democrats in the Moose Jaw Wakamow constituency to be the candidate in the next provincial election.

“Karen is a great addition to our team,” said Cam Broten, leader of Saskatchewan’s New Democrats. “Moose Jaw needs a strong voice, and an MLA that’s in touch with what really matters to Moose Jaw families.

“This government has had years and years of record revenue, but it's had far too many misplaced priorities and it's made a lot of bad choices. We see the Sask. Party government scrapping the incredibly valuable hyperbaric chamber here in Moose Jaw. We see how they allowed their Lean consultants to shrink the size of the new Moose Jaw Hospital, so it will have fewer beds, fewer rooms and less staff. We see too many classrooms in Moose Jaw that are overcrowded and under-resourced. It's time for Moose Jaw to have an effective MLA, working to deliver opportunities for young people, fairness and affordability for families, and dignity and security for seniors.”

Purdy grew up on a farm outside Brownlee. In addition to working as a licensed practical nurse at the Moose Jaw Union Hospital, Purdy is the music director at St. Andrew’s church.

“I think it's time for a government that lives out Saskatchewan's values, like helping our neighbours and using common sense,” said Purdy. “What makes sense to Moose Jaw families is using our natural resource wealth to put students and patients first, make life more affordable for middle-class families and save for our future.

“The Sask. Party government is dropping the ball on those basics, and the current Moose Jaw MLAs are far too silent on the issues that really matter. I'm proud to be on Cam’s team, because we’re speaking up for everyday families, and focused on the issues that really matter.”