Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is preparing to introduce a series of policy recommendations to tackle the uncertainty stemming from the Trump administration, as per a high-ranking staff member. Poilievre is scheduled to present these proposals to business figures at the Economic Club of Canada in Toronto, focusing on enhancing Canada-U.S. relations.
Katy Merrifield, Poilievre’s communications head, informed CBC News that the speech will feature fresh policy ideas aimed at being pragmatic and enhancing Canada’s position in a volatile geopolitical climate. Among the proposals are plans for an energy and critical mineral strategy and a suggestion for a new tariff-free auto agreement with the U.S.
Additionally, Poilievre will advocate for regulations necessitating companies relocating Canadian intellectual property overseas to reimburse any public funds received. He will also advocate for the establishment of a bipartisan working group before the upcoming review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Poilievre’s address coincides with the Conservative Party encountering challenges in recent polls. A survey by the Angus Reid Institute revealed the Liberals leading the Conservatives by 13 percentage points in voting intention. Shachi Kurl, the institute’s president, noted Poilievre’s struggle to resonate with Canadians regarding handling the Trump administration.
Despite his recent overwhelming support at the party’s convention, Poilievre faces criticism for not directly confronting Trump, as highlighted by former Conservative minister Jason Kenney. The convention saw Poilievre secure 87% backing to continue as leader, with a focus on addressing the tariffs imposed by the U.S. president.
