A few hundred NDP supporters gathered in Moose Jaw this weekend for the first leadership debate of 2018. The two candidates share much of the same vision, including a minimum wage increase, strengthening Crown Corporations and a larger focus on climate change and reconciliation.

Trent Wotherspoon stepped down as interim party leader to run for the position full time and explained what gives him a competitive edge.

"I've built teams everywhere that I've been and I have the support of an incredible group of caucus colleges and those that have served before."

Though he shares many of the same values as his opponent, Dr. Ryan Meili believes he's well equipped for the job.

"The real difference is one of experience. I'm coming from the world of health (care) and from running a few different organizations."

A new leader of the Saskatchewan NDP will be elected on March 3rd.