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Nunavut Election 2017 – Kusugak the clear cut winner in Rankin Inlet South

Northern News Services
Lorne Kusugak didn't have to wait for a recount this time, claiming a decisive 309-136 victory over Alexander Sammurtok in Rankin Inlet South on Monday night.

Casey Lessard/NNSL photo
Lorne Kusugak

"I think the difference was I had a good team, I had a lot of community support and I made sure that I went to every household and talked to the and heard their concerns. I think I have their confidence back," said Kusugak, who lost a byelection to Sammurtok after they tied in 2013. "I knew I had to work for every vote."
A former minister of Community and Government Services, Kusugak wouldn't comment on whether he'd accept a cabinet seat or the premiership in the new government.
"To be quite honest with you, I'm not even there yet... It's not even in my mind right now," he said from his home, surrounded by family and friends. "Ask me in a month and you'll get a better answer."
His said his priorities are to get "Rankin back on the discussion table" when it comes to issues like housing, elders and youth and education.
"Our community is a big community. It needs a large role to play," he said.