Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre seized the attention of conservative enthusiasts in Quebec City, delivering a vibrant, election-styled discourse, laden with promises and propositions intended to engage Canadians. The address took place during the significant policy convention organized by his party, drawing over 2,500 supporters. Poilievre emphasized his personal story, thanking his parents whom he credited with his rapid rise to power: “It’s because they made the decision to adopt me and work hard in front of a classroom that I now stand proudly in front of this room.”
Poilievre’s triumphant ascend to leadership a year ago marked one of the most decisive victories in the party’s history, second only to Stephen Harper’s success in 2004. Since then, he has been relentlessly rallying the party’s agenda, shaping it into a formidable political force. Poilievre has also undergone a personal transformation, introducing softer, more relatable facets of his character to newer voters through well-coordinated outreach efforts and a $3-million advertising campaign.
The Conservative leader resonated the sense of a wearied nation, burdened under the high cost of living, promising rejuvenated hope. He didn’t shy away from contending current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s policies, condemning them for breaking the Canadian dream, especially with regard to home ownership. He painted a vivid choice for his audience: “A common-sense Conservative government that frees hardworking people to earn powerful paycheques that buy affordable food, gas and homes in safe communities” or “Trudeau’s costly coalition.”
During the riveting discourse, Poilievre’s wife, Anaida, shared her poignant tale of immigration from Venezuela, reliance on food banks, and the struggle of raising two young children—one of them having special needs—while in pursuit of the nation’s leading office.
In his pledge of policies, Poilievre highlighted increased credential recognition for skilled immigrants, incentivized home-building in cities, and expanded development of Canada’s natural resources. The speech teemed with well-received partisan jabs at the Liberals, exhibiting the fiery character he’s come to be known for in political arenas. His vow to abolish federal Liberal government’s carbon pricing plan and ‘defund the CBC’ were met with thunderous applause.
As the event concluded, Poilievre engaged with avid supporters, eagerly rallying for a “blue wave” ousting the Liberals from power. To maintain the unity and strength that victory required, he quoted former Conservative cabinet minister Peter MacKay: “In order to build a united Canada we must remain united as a Conservative party.”
The convention marked an optimistic increase in unity and financial support for the Conservatives, stirring anticipation of Poilievre’s continued efforts in reshaping the party and rallying voters.
