The Associate Professor of Political Science at Brandon University says while the change in government wasn't surprising, the final numbers were. Kelly Saunders is reacting to the substantial Progressive Conservative victory in last night's provincial election. She notes the polls had indicated a PC majority for the duration of the campaign, but she was surprised to see them take such a large majority.

"We're looking at 40 plus seats, that's certainly a game changer in Manitoba. We'd have to go back to the early 1900's to find a majority government of that magnitude. This is certainly a significant win for the Conservatives, and an equally disappointing loss for the NDP."

Saunders says the new government will really have their work cut out for them. She notes after years in opposition, it's time for the Progressive Conservatives to start taking action.

"It's one thing to call into question a government when you're in opposition, and point out faults, and that's your job to do so. Of course, when you're on the other side now, as government, you have to walk the walk. Mr. Pallister has some real challenges, and the work will begin immediately."

She notes Pallister and the PCs have made numerous commitments during the months leading up to the election, but those plans won't be coming to fruition overnight.

"He's going to have to hope that Manitobans will give him a grace period. That they will give his new government a chance to get in, get their feet wet and learn the ropes, both in terms of new caucus members and a new cabinet. Also, to do the careful value audits that he committed to undertaking. He basically wants a review of all government operations to find cost-savings."

Saunders says the PCs won't be the only party to watch in the near future, noting the future of the NDP and Liberal leaders will also be interesting to watch. NDP Leader Greg Selinger announced his resignation after the results came out last night, but Liberal Rana Bokhari has yet to announce her plans for the future.