If you’re looking for somewhere else to park your vote on provincial election day, a new choice is available.
The Manitoba Party has officially registered with Elections Manitoba. So far it has 11 official candidates with the hopes of having up to 25 on April 19.
Leader Gary Marshall says the party is offering something new compared to the existing parties.
"They're all the same. They all look the same and they all sound the same and they offer nothing, so as a group, we formed as a party to answer that," said Marshall
Lowering the PST to five per cent is at the heart of the new party's platform -- a move members say will boost the economy.
"I'm just absolutely sick and tired of how our hard-earned taxpayer dollars are being wasted," said Manitoba Party hopeful Jason Wiebe.
To differentiate themselves, Marshall said they've adopted the colour yellow. Instead of putting out lawn signs, Marshall encourages homeowners to pitch in.
"Put out a yellow towel, a yellow t-shirt, a yellow anything, put it on your front lawn and that will demonstrate your support for the party," said Marshall.
While the party is new, it's already dealing with controversy.
Former city entomologist Taz Stuart quit as interim leader. Former liberal leader candidate Bob Axworthy left as well.
Another so-called candidate, listed on the Manitoba Party's website, says he wants nothing to do with the party. Former Winnipeg city councillor Harvey Smith says he's never asked to be a candidate.
"I'm not going to be running for the Manitoba Party, so I don't want to be on his website," said Smith.
Smith said he’s told the party to take his picture down.
"I know damn well that a new party without a record, with only one main plank -- to reduce the sales tax -- is not sufficient," said Smith.
Gary Marshall has a different take on Smith’s would-be candidacy. He said the former city councillor has expressed an interest in running for the party.
"We think he's a great guy. He'd be a great addition to this team," said Marshall.
