Maxime Bernier, the leader of the People’s Party of Canada (PPC), made headlines during a press conference in Calgary on April 15, 2025, where he called for an end to what he termed "imperial federalism." His remarks came as he positioned the PPC as a distinct alternative to the mainstream federal parties, particularly the Conservatives, with less than two weeks before the federal election set for April 28.
During the event, held outside the Harry Hays building, Bernier argued that Ottawa has overstepped its bounds, encroaching on areas that should be under provincial jurisdiction. He stated, "The federal government now interferes in many areas where it has no business, such as health care, education, natural resources, housing, local infrastructure and many other domains that are explicitly under provincial jurisdictions." He emphasized that this federal overreach creates inefficiencies and a lack of accountability, asserting that "by concentrating power in Ottawa, the federal government is eroding the ability of provinces to govern efficiently and respond to the needs of their citizens."
Bernier's comments reflect a broader strategy to differentiate the PPC from the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. He criticized Poilievre for not offering a genuine alternative to the Liberals, claiming, "Conservative government or a Liberal government, it won’t change anything for Albertans and for Canadians." Bernier accused both Poilievre and Liberal leader Mark Carney of being focused on centralizing power in Ottawa, stating, "The Liberal party has one goal: to centralize even more power in Ottawa."
In the 2021 federal election, the PPC had notable success in Alberta, capturing 7.3% of the provincial vote and outperforming the Liberals in rural areas. However, despite these gains, the party did not win any seats nationally. Bernier remains undeterred by recent polling that suggests declining support for the PPC, asserting, "There’s no such thing as vote splitting," and encouraging voters to prioritize their values over strategic voting.
Bernier's platform for the upcoming election includes a focus on mass immigration, contrasting sharply with the previous campaign's emphasis on personal freedoms and opposition to pandemic restrictions. He remarked, "I want this election to be an election on mass immigration," indicating that he believes this issue resonates strongly with Alberta voters. He expressed confidence in the PPC's chances, stating, "We still have two weeks. Everything can happen. Our goal is to make history."
On the following day, April 16, Bernier continued his campaign in Red Deer, a Conservative stronghold, where he addressed contentious issues such as late-term abortion and medical assistance in dying. He reiterated his commitment to conservative values, stating, "Fighting for what is right is the only thing we must do — that is what we are doing, that is what the People's Party is doing." This advocacy has raised concerns among some political analysts, who suggest that the PPC's presence could siphon votes from the Conservatives, potentially impacting their seat count in the upcoming election.
In the 2019 federal election, the PPC was cited for contributing to Conservative losses due to vote splitting, with analyses suggesting it cost the Conservatives up to seven seats. Bernier, however, remains steadfast in his belief that his party's platform will attract voters who feel disillusioned by the traditional parties. He emphasized the importance of voting according to one's values, dismissing concerns about vote splitting as unfounded.
The PPC has fielded 312 candidates across the 338 electoral districts in Canada, underscoring its ambition to make a significant impact in the upcoming election. Bernier's campaign strategy appears focused on rallying support in Alberta, a province where he believes the PPC can resonate with voters seeking bold reforms.
As the election date approaches, Bernier's rhetoric and positioning aim to galvanize a base of support that could challenge the status quo in Canadian politics. His assertive stance on federalism and provincial autonomy reflects a growing sentiment among some voters who feel that their concerns are not adequately addressed by the mainstream parties.
With the political landscape shifting and the PPC aiming to capitalize on its previous gains, the upcoming election promises to be a pivotal moment for Bernier and his party. As he continues to campaign across Alberta, the PPC's ability to mobilize support and convert it into electoral success will be closely watched.
