University of Manitoba Political Science Lecturer Paul Thomas points to a couple of factors which may have impacted the decision. He notes a life in politics poses personal and financial challenges, and Pallister may not have seen his prospects for advancement in the Harper government as very promising. Thomas expects competition for Pallister's position. He says given the safe nature of the conservatives in this riding, there will be a number of interested individuals.
Thomas adds this move will take Pallister out of the public life, giving him a chance to focus on his family and perhaps embark upon another career.
Dennis Meeches of Long Plain First Nation is looking ahead to the
election. He would like to see more of a partnership between the MP and
Long Plain and he hopes they can move forward in creating a better
standard of living for all residents.
Meeches points out politics is a demanding occupation, and sixteen
years of service is a long time. Though they didn't always see eye to
eye, he wishes Pallister and his family all the best in the future.