Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew is gaining attention for prioritizing public safety in his approach to governance. His recent actions and statements reflect a blend of social democratic values with a pragmatic understanding of societal issues. Kinew's leadership style is characterized by a focus on the concerns of everyday citizens, particularly regarding drug addiction and crime.

On Wednesday, Kinew's government passed a significant bill allowing for the involuntary detention of individuals intoxicated on methamphetamine for up to three days. Kinew acknowledged the controversial nature of this legislation, stating, "This is politically incorrect, but I’m just going to say this happens already. This is the drunk tank." Previously, involuntary detentions for alcohol intoxication were limited to one day, making this new measure a notable shift in policy.

Kinew emphasized that the primary goal of the legislation is to enhance public safety. He stated, "People who are suffering from meth addiction do not have the right to determine how the rest of us are going to live in our society." By facilitating the removal of addicts from public spaces and connecting them with medical care, Kinew aims to protect both the individuals affected by addiction and the broader community.

His stance on drug addiction marks a departure from some left-wing perspectives that view substance use as a personal choice. Kinew's approach has resonated with many who are concerned about the visible impacts of drug use in urban areas. He has positioned himself as a leader willing to confront these issues head-on, advocating for a balance between compassion for those struggling with addiction and the need for community safety.

Kinew's commitment to law and order extends beyond drug policy. He expressed strong disapproval of a recent Supreme Court decision that struck down a one-year mandatory minimum sentence for possessing child pornography. Kinew supported the use of the notwithstanding clause to maintain this minimum sentence, stating, "Child sexual abuse images and video, this is like one of the worst things that anyone can do." He further expressed his belief that offenders should face severe consequences, saying, "You shouldn’t get protective custody. They should put you into general population, if you know what I mean."

In addition to his focus on crime and addiction, Kinew has also addressed issues related to infrastructure and fiscal responsibility. He supports the development of oil and gas pipelines, provided there is consultation with Indigenous communities. Despite inheriting a challenging financial situation from the previous government, Kinew is on track to balance the provincial budget by 2027-28.

Kinew's views on international issues, particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, have also drawn attention. He has articulated a balanced perspective, condemning violence from both sides while expressing support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas. In a statement, he said he "abhors the carnage of Oct. 7, 2023" and believes that Hamas should be dismantled.

As Kinew continues to navigate complex political landscapes, his unapologetic patriotism and commitment to addressing pressing societal issues have positioned him as a prominent figure in Canadian politics. His leadership style may offer a path for the federal NDP to regain relevance, should they consider his potential candidacy for national leadership.