In Toronto, Pierre Poilievre, once seen as the favorite to ascend to Canada’s prime ministership and return his Conservative Party to power after a decade, now faces unexpected challenges. This turn of events follows President Donald Trump’s aggressive economic stance towards Canada, coupled with his provocative remarks likening Canada to a potential 51st state of the U.S.
Poilievre, known for his fiery populism and resemblance to Trump’s political style, adopted a “Canada First” slogan inspired by Trump’s own rhetoric. However, the resemblance could harm his bid for the top office when Canadians vote on April 28. Trump’s disparagement of Canada’s economy and sovereignty has stirred nationalistic sentiments, boosting support for the Liberal Party.
Mirroring Trump’s tactics, Poilievre frequently boasts about attendance at rallies and criticizes mainstream media, having referred to a female journalist as a protester at a recent event. In a reaction to shifting public opinion, some supporters of Poilievre questioned the credibility of polls by wearing hoodies reading, “Do you believe the polls?”
The polling landscape has shifted dramatically. A Nanos poll conducted in mid-January showed the Conservatives leading the Liberals 47% to 20%. However, the latest Nanos survey, concluding on April 19, indicated the Liberals holding a six-point lead over the Conservatives, with the margins of error being 3.1 points in January and 2.7 points in the latest poll.
Kory Teneycke, a prominent figure in Canadian conservative politics, attributed public distaste to Poilievre’s Trump-like approach, calling it a “cheap karaoke version” of Trump’s style. Poilievre has been rallying Canadians to prevent the Liberals from securing a fourth term after what he terms a “lost Liberal decade.” He aimed to make the election a statement against former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose popularity waned due to rising costs of living and increased immigration.
With Justin Trudeau stepping down amid criticism, Mark Carney, an experienced central banker, took over as Liberal leader and prime minister, shifting the electoral focus to managing Trump’s threats. This narrative challenges Poilievre’s attempt to draw parallels to Trump. Despite differences, Poilievre’s rhetoric often echoes Trump, potentially alienating Canadian voters.
He is notable for his populist rhetoric and critique of high inflation which he attributes to Trudeau. Having served as a cabinet minister under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Poilievre has led the Conservative opposition since 2022. His political ascent is credited to his adeptness at aggressive political tactics, which previously resonated when targeting the unpopular Trudeau. However, with Trump now the focus, this strategy seems less effective.
At 45, Poilievre is a seasoned politician from Alberta, known for its conservative leanings. Serving as a Parliament member since age 25, Poilievre was politically active from his youth, participating in conservative initiatives and university-level political activities.
In terms of Canada-U.S. relations, Trump’s trade war intentions were unfazed by its bolstering effect on the Liberal Party. Despite Poilievre aligning more with Trump’s views than Carney, Trump has publicly criticized him, calling him “stupidly no friend of mine” due to past criticisms.
Poilievre has expressed a desire to expedite trade negotiations with the U.S. and seeks a halt on U.S. tariffs while talks proceed, advising Trump to “knock off” his contentious Canada remarks while acknowledging the impossibility of anyone controlling Trump.
Conservative ally, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, perceives Poilievre as aligned with the “new direction in America.” Poilievre has pledged to reduce the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s funding, lower taxes, advocate for pipelines to diversify oil exports, enforce stricter crime policies, and oppose “woke-ism.”
During a recent rally, Poilievre energetically asked supporters, “Who’s ready for change in Canada? Who’s ready to ax some taxes? Who’s ready to build some homes? Who’s ready for some pipelines to make us independent from the Americans? And who’s ready to put Canada first for a change?” showcasing his ambition to reshape Canada’s political and economic landscape.