Bonk looks back on 2025, forward to 2026
January 5, 2026, 10:24 am
Nicole Taylor, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The World-Spectator reached out to Souris-Moose Mountain MP Steven Bonk for his take on 2025, and his thoughts on what 2026 may hold. Following are his comments.
What were some of the highlights of 2025?
One of the real highlights of the year was being elected in April. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust the people of Souris-Moose Mountain placed in me, and it was humbling to see our riding record the highest percentage of support for any candidate in Canada. That is something I do not take for granted. It’s truly an honour to serve this region.
What were some of the things you accomplished?
At the Agriculture Committee, I was able to secure an important commitment from the Minister of Agriculture to grant exemptions for strychnine use where jurisdictions apply. Since the previous Liberal government banned strychnine, farmers have been left without an effective tool to manage gophers—an issue that has caused immense damage across western Canada. This commitment is a significant step forward for producers, and I was proud to help deliver it on their behalf.
What were some of the disappointments in 2025?
While I was extremely encouraged by the strong support for a Conservative government in Souris-Moose Mountain, the national election result was disappointing. That said, our team is working every day to hold the Liberal government accountable, and we will continue to fight for the priorities of Canadians who are struggling under years of costly policies.
What happened in 2025 that had the most effect on your constituents?
The removal of the consumer carbon tax made a meaningful difference for families across our riding. Conservatives pushed hard for this change, and it has helped ease some of the financial pressures that people are facing. We will continue pushing to eliminate the industrial carbon tax as well—because it does nothing to help the environment, but it does make everything more expensive for the people who grow our food and power our economy.
What are some of the most common things you hear from your constituents?
The rising cost of living is the number one concern I hear—especially grocery prices, which have increased nearly 40 per cent faster in Canada than in the United States. People see the impact of federal policy every time they check out at the grocery store. I also hear concerns about trade tariffs, freedom of expression, and increasing federal intrusion into people’s day-to-day lives. These issues matter deeply to the people of this region.
What do you want to see accomplished in 2026?
Above all, I hope Canadians will have the opportunity to elect a common-sense Conservative government—one that focuses on affordability, economic growth, and restoring hope in this country. That’s what I’ll be working toward in 2026.
What will be some of the biggest challenges for your party in 2026?
We will need to work constructively with other parties in the House of Commons to find common ground and hold the government accountable. Ultimately, our goal is to bring forward a non-confidence vote so Canadians can choose a government that works for them rather than against them. Building that co-operation will be an important challenge in the year ahead.
What do you want to see accomplished by the next election?
Resolving the unfair and unjustified tariffs placed on Canada by the U.S., China, and India must be a priority. Here in Souris-Moose Mountain, the canola and pea tariffs are especially harmful, and securing fair market access for our producers is essential. I want to see real progress on these files before Canadians next go to the polls.
What are some of the most challenging things about being an MP?
There is a tremendous amount of information to stay on top of, and it’s important to be well-informed on a wide range of issues—from agriculture to trade to national policy. In a large rural riding like ours, it can also be challenging to be everywhere at once, but I’m working hard to attend as many community events as possible. Staying connected to the people I represent is incredibly important to me.
What are some of the most rewarding things about being an MP?
The most rewarding part of this job is helping people—whether it’s resolving an issue for a family, assisting a business, or advancing policy that strengthens our region and our country. Making a positive difference, even in small ways, is deeply meaningful. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Souris-Moose Mountain, and I appreciate their support more than I can express.
