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Hunter, arguing that the NDP has done “an ineffective job of countering the Sask. Party,” wore her trademark green blazer and delivered an upbeat message that stressed electrifying the power grid while promoting mass transit and solar energy.

“I promise to be an excellent voice for nature,” Hunter told the convention upon her victory.

She told the Leader-Post that she plans to run in Regina Pasqua, which is currently held by Saskatchewan Party MLA Muhammad Fiaz. Hunter said she already has about 30 candidates in mind — three of which are previous Saskatchewan Green leaders — who are ready to run for the 61 seats in the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly.

“I want to see boots on the ground right away,” she said, promising strong vetting for candidates and a focus on “winnable ridings” in the upcoming election.

Hunter acknowledged the most fruitful territory for the Green Party has been in urban ridings, many of which are held by the NDP, though she said her priority is to get more “more voices elected on the left.” In her view, that means targeting Saskatchewan Party-held ridings like Regina Pasqua.

“I think that we need to take them out and take their seats,” she said.

Hunter said the Green Party platform will likely emphasize electoral reform, respect for diversity and putting climate action at the forefront of the campaign. She also raised universal basic income as an idea she favours.

awhite-crummey@postmedia.com