How Trump’s Economic War Could Impact Pierre Poilievre’s Ambitions as Canada’s Next Leader

TORONTO (AP) — A few months back, Pierre Poilievre seemed poised to become Canada’s next prime minister, leading the Conservative Party back to power after a decade in the shadows. However, things changed dramatically when former President Donald Trump launched an economic offensive against Canada, even joking about making it the 51st state.

Poilievre, known for his populist flair, has campaigned with Trump-inspired bravado, even adopting the slogan “Canada First.” But mirroring Trump might be a double-edged sword for him as Canadians prepare to cast their votes on April 28.

Trump’s repeated criticism of Canada’s economy has sparked a rise in nationalism. This shift has boosted the Liberal Party’s popularity, and Poilievre’s style, which mirrors Trump’s brashness, isn’t resonating well. Some of his supporters even wore shirts asking, “Do you believe the polls?” as a statement against changing public opinion.

The polls reflect a significant shift. In January, a Nanos poll showed the Conservatives ahead at 47% compared to the Liberals at just 20%. Fast forward to now, the latest poll places the Liberals ahead by six points, indicating a rapid turnaround in voter sentiment.

“In the past, Poilievre’s aggressive style worked against an unpopular Trudeau,” said Kory Teneycke, a strategist in Canadian politics. “But with Trump in the mix, the game has changed drastically.”

Poilievre argues that giving the Liberals a fourth term would be disastrous, blaming Trudeau for rising costs of living. However, the focus has shifted. Recent events, including Trump’s attacks and Trudeau stepping down, have made who can handle Trump’s critiques a central theme of the election.

So, who is Pierre Poilievre? He’s known for fiery rhetoric and direct attacks on Trudeau, whom he blames for high inflation. Poilievre, a member of Parliament since 2004 and the opposition leader since 2022, has roots in Alberta, Canada’s most conservative province. As a young man, he was involved in conservative activism and even conducted campaigns during his school years.

What would a Poilievre success mean for Canada-U.S. relations? Trump has downplayed the impact of his trade wars on Canadian politics, even calling Poilievre “not a friend” due to the negative remarks he made. Nevertheless, Poilievre aims to renew trade discussions if he wins and has argued for suspending U.S. tariffs during negotiations. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith believes Poilievre aligns with a conservative shift in the U.S.

On the home front, Poilievre has vowed to cut taxes, defund the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and promote oil pipeline projects. At recent rallies, he energizes the crowd with questions like, “Who’s ready for change?”

In the unfolding political climate, Poilievre’s future hinges on his ability to connect with the Canadian public while distancing himself from Trump’s controversial shadow. In light of shifting voter appetite and the changing tides of political favor, the next few weeks will be crucial for his campaign.

For further insights, you can check out the latest polling data from Nanos to see how public opinion continues to shift as the elections near.

Check out this related article: Inside the Pentagon: A Former Pete Hegseth Aide Reveals the ‘Total Chaos’ Unfolding

Source link

Donald Trump, Justin Trudeau, Canada, Pierre Poilievre, Danielle Smith, Conservatism, Canada government, United States government, General news, International News, Global elections, United States, United States Congress, Stephen Harper, Politics, Elections, Mark Carney, Kory Teneycke, World news, Nationalism, Daniel Bland, World News