GATINEAU, Que. - Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre officially launched his campaign for prime minister on March 23, 2025, during a pivotal moment for Canada's political landscape. In a spirited bid to claim the nation's highest office, Poilievre's campaign commenced with a rally in the Greater Toronto Area, where more than 2,400 supporters gathered at the Pan Pacific Hotel, signaling a strong start to the electoral race.
As Poilievre took the stage, he spotlighted his three-year-old son Cruz, noting the child's baseball jacket to deliver a critical message about political endurance. “My little boy understands something the Liberals do not: In baseball and in politics, it’s three strikes and you’re out.” With a tone that emphasized urgency and determination, the Conservative leader directed his criticism at the incumbent Liberal government, claiming that their record should not earn them a fourth term.
The stakes of this election have escalated dramatically for Poilievre since his leadership bid nearly three years ago. He now faces Mark Carney as his primary rival—an unexpected challenge following Justin Trudeau's recent departure from the political stage. In addressing the crowd, Poilievre asserted that “the Liberals have provided weak and out-of-touch leadership” which he claims has resulted in increasing costs and crime across Canada.
His rhetoric sharpened as he highlighted the pressing issue of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to Canada’s sovereignty. Poilievre remarked, “He’s been very blunt that he wants a weak Canada that he can target.” This context has intensified the anxiety amongst Canadians, a sentiment he aims to transform into support for his party. He aims to counter the potential parallels drawn between himself and Trump by emphasizing his Canadian roots, stating in French, “I’m Canadian.” Poilievre maintains that a Conservative government would prioritize Canada's independence and sovereignty.
Amidst the campaign launch, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith raised eyebrows by suggesting that a Poilievre government might align closely with Trump’s aspirations. However, her comments received immediate scrutiny from party members concerned about the potential backlash. The Liberals wasted no time in responding, releasing an attack ad juxtaposing Poilievre’s comments with Trump’s own remarks to depict him as too closely aligned with the controversial U.S. president.
Amid this tumultuous backdrop, Poilievre’s campaign seeks to reconnect with the hearts of Canadian voters while distancing itself from the Republicans. His proposed policies include cutting taxes, enhancing natural resource production, and fostering job growth. He emphasizes that these moves would be beneficial for both Canada and its relationship with the U.S. “When I promise to cut taxes, increase natural-resource production, and create jobs, it is bad news for the President,” he said.
The ripple effects of Trump’s influence have already disrupted Poilievre’s campaign rhythm. Public sentiment appears negatively affected by Trump’s prior comments about preferring a Liberal Canada. Yet with campaigning officially underway, Poilievre has vowed to maintain a positive outlook and promise for change. “A new Conservative government will restore Canada’s promise—the promise that anyone from anywhere can do anything,” he asserted, drawing upon themes of hard work and opportunity.
While controversies swirl around the potential trade ramifications between Canada and the U.S., particularly with upcoming tariffs coming into effect on April 2, Poilievre remains resolute about his position. He insists that the Conservatives would take a “respectful and firm” stance against Trump’s policies, emphasizing Canada’s need to stand strong amid negotiations.
The dynamics within the Conservative Party also hinge on the latest political developments in certain ridings, such as Nepean, where candidate Barbara Bal faces Liberal Leader Mark Carney. With Carney’s ascent, Conservatives fear losing what once seemed like a winnable seat. For Poilievre, balancing the national campaign's message while supporting local candidates becomes crucial as he shapes his road ahead, intending to visit key battlegrounds including British Columbia in the coming days.
As the Conservative leader navigates through this critical election period, his call for change resonates with many Canadians feeling discontent. “Hope is on the way,” Poilievre declared, appealing to voters who are tired of the status quo. His stated commitment to “bring home more of their paychecks” reflects a desire to reenergize a base that yearns for economic revitalization.
Polling data suggests that as the election draws closer, Canadians are channeling their concerns into support for the Liberals, which adds pressure on Poilievre to effectively communicate his campaign’s unique value. The political landscape is shifting rapidly, and the stakes could not be higher as the Conservatives gear up for a period where they must reestablish themselves against their longstanding rivals.
As Canadians prepare to head to the polls, the overarching narrative remains clear: the Conservative Party will strive to present a vision of hope and action amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and political upheaval. Now is the time for Poilievre to solidify his place in Canadian politics and demonstrate leadership that resonates with the electorate.
