Calgary-raised politician Pierre Poilievre has been elected as the new leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, the Official Opposition to Trudeau’s Liberal government, following a vote among party members on Sept. 10.
Poilievre is an advocate for free-market politics, limited government intervention, and a self-proclaimed champion of personal ownership rights and responsibility. Throughout his leadership campaign, the MP has been outspoken against the Liberal government’s deficit spending and tax increases and brought to light what he dubs an “inflation crisis.”
The Ottawa-area MP replaces former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole, who was ousted following a conservative leadership review in February this year. Considered an early front-runner in the leadership race to replace O’Toole, Poilievre secured victory on election night on the first ballot, receiving 68 per cent of the vote and easily overcoming second-place candidate Jean Charest.
“Tonight begins the journey to replace an old government that costs you more and delivers you less, with a new government that puts you first, your paycheque, your retirement, your home, [and] your country,” Poilievre said during a speech after being unveiled as the leadership vote winner.
Throughout his campaign, the libertarian politician frequently spoke out against what he deemed “unscientific mandates” and “unacceptable limits” on the freedoms of Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Conservative party’s website.
“Pierre believes that freedom is critical for this country and has pressed the government to commit to ending its politicized and divisive response,” read the statement on the website.
The Calgary native served as a senior cabinet minister in Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government, and as an MP for the Carleton riding near Ottawa, Ont. since 2004. He currently resides in the eastern Ontario village of Greely with his family.
Rocky View County's two area MPs were congratulatory of Poilievre following his recent win. Martin Shields, the MP for Bow River (which encompasses communities in east Rocky View County) released an official statement stating he offered his best wishes and congratulations to him, and felt certain the new leader would unite the party.
“With such a resounding victory as it was, the Conservative Party has never been more united,” Shields said in his statement.
“We must now work towards defeating Justin Trudeau and the Liberals to undo the damage caused by out-of-control spending and policies that have directly led to a cost-of-living crisis and soaring inflation.”
Furthermore, Shields stated he looks forward to working with Poilievre and the Conservative caucus to give Canadians a “sensible and responsible” government and once again, make Canada “the greatest country to live on earth.”
Blake Richards, MP for Airdrie-Banff, was also congratulatory. He previously noted he met Poilievre while attending the University of Calgary, where Poilievre studied international relations.
Richards stated he was excited to see Poilievre win the leadership in a “decisive victory.”
“There is a lot of excitement about Pierre’s leadership and his message of hope is resonating with many Canadians,” Richards said in an email statement. “He’s focusing on the issues that speak to everyone; kitchen table issues like inflation, gas prices, and trying to afford a home. These are real issued faced by real people, and Pierre is making them feel heard again.
“He’s got people who have never voted Conservative in their lives coming out to his rallies – the momentum behind him is palpable.”
