Palliser is a mixed urban rural riding that covers the south west corner of Regina, the entire city of Moose Jaw, and the towns of Briercrest, Rouleau (aka. Dog River), Avonlea, Caronport, Drinkwater, Mossbank, and Wilcox.

This riding features two former mayors of Moose Jaw, Don Mitchell and Ray Boughen, and a former Regina city police chief Cal Johnston. This riding has had by far the most drama out of any riding before the election was called. The first nominated candidate for the Liberal party had to step down and the incumbent, Dave Batters, stepped down at the last possible moment because of anxiety, depression and addiction issues.

This race has been close between the NDP and Conservatives/ Reform/ Canadian Alliance for years. So a little bit of controversy for any party could turn this seat to the NDP or even the Liberals.

And controversy we have folks. Because Dave Batters stepped down shortly before the writ was dropped the Conservative Party did not have time to run a formal nomination and instead had to pick a candidate. Needless to say not everyone is happy with the decision.

Since Boughen has been active in civic and provincial politics in Moose Jaw he has some baggage. Most notably there is a controversy with the building of a multimillion dollar multiplex in Moose Jaw. Boughen is the co-chair of group trying to raise funds for the venture. Normally civic issues don’t come into play in a federal election since people are voting for the party and the party leader as much as the candidate. However this riding is so tight that a factor like this could be a big deal.