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WINNIPEG — A Manitoba Liberal MLA says she is seriously considering a jump to federal politics in time for this fall’s election — a move that could put the provincial party’s status in the legislature at risk.

Judy Klassen confirmed Monday that she has been in contact with the federal party about possibly running for the nomination in Churchill-Keewatinook Aski, which has been held for the last 11 years by New Democrat Niki Ashton. The area includes Klassen’s provincial seat.

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“I haven’t made a decision yet. I don’t know when,” she wrote in a text message from Berens River, Man.

The idea of running federally is “mostly due to pressure from my constituents because (Manitoba Premier Brian) Pallister doesn’t and refuses to help.”

Klassen, first elected in 2016, is one of four Liberals in the Manitoba legislature. It’s the minimum number for official party status, which brings funding, research staff and a guaranteed presence in question period and on committees.