Steinbach Progressive Conservative Member of the Legislature Kelvin Goertzen is contemplating a run for the leadership of the Manitoba P.C.'s.
   
He says, "I am considering it. All (Conservative) MLA's, I think, are getting a lot of people within their own ridings who are encouraging them to run. I am getting those same expressions and so it's respectful to consider that. I appreciate the words of encouragement people have given me. Ultimately, I'll go through that same process as others will with my own family. It's a commitment of between 8 to 12 years, or at least candidates should look at it as a commitment between 8 to 12 years, so it's not a decision that should be taken lightly or be done quickly. It has to be done in consultation with your family and your supporters."

Goertzen, who is a member of the P.C. executive, supported the decision to wait almost a year before electing a new leader. He explains potential candidates require proper time to think this through because it's such a big decision. "I think it's important that we take some time not to do this quickly but to do it correctly. It's an important decision. There's a lot of time that goes into people deciding whether or not they want to run for this position," said Goertzen.

He expects it will probably be sometime after Christmas before anyone declares their interest. Goertzen feels most will wait until closer to next summer because it's too hard to keep supporters motivated for a long period of time. Candidates are required to have the support of 1,000 party members to be nominated.