Post-NDP Tidbit

NDP Leadership candidate Ryan Meili isn't going to run in Lorne Calvert's old riding, Saskatoon Riversdale. With Calvert gone, there will be a byelection in the riding at some point in the not-too distant future. Many expected Meili to make a play for it, which seems logical at first glance. The guy clearly has support in the party and appears to have the makings of a potentially very successful progressive politician.

But Meili, who came in a robust second to Dwayne Lingenfelter in last weekend's NDP leadership contest, is supporting Danielle Chartier, a lifelong Riversdale resident and strong, progressive candidate in her own right who's already declared her intention to seek the NDP nomination for the seat.

Meili says he'll run for a seat in the 2011 election at the latest. Take his word for it, says I.

Here's the story in the StarPhoenix.

Yesterday, of course, new NDP leader Dwayne Lingenfelter said he will run in Harry Van Mulligen's Douglas Park riding after the long-time politician steps down June 30. Certain bi-weekly magazines that chronically misspell the former cabinet minister's name "Van Mulligan" will have to find a new victim in the legislature.

Frankly I think Ryan "Mieli" would be a good option.