Tensions with N.S. premier simmered as Poilievre made his sole stop in the province

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre made a significant campaign stop in Nova Scotia for the first time during this election season. This marks the second province he has visited that is led by a Progressive Conservative premier who has been noticeably absent from the federal party’s events.

Poilievre’s visit to Nova Scotia did not include a meeting with Premier Tim Houston, who did not attend the rally in Trenton, N.S., just minutes away from his own provincial riding. Tensions between the two leaders have been brewing for months, with Houston previously stating that he would not invite Poilievre to campaign with him during the provincial election last year. Houston emphasized that he is the leader of the Nova Scotia Progressive Conservatives, distinct from the Conservative Party of Canada.

Reports suggest that the relationship between the two camps took a turn after a frosty phone call between Houston’s staff and Conservative national campaign director Jenni Byrne. It was alleged that Byrne warned Houston’s team that support for the provincial party would be withheld if Poilievre were to become prime minister. This incident seemed to strain the already fragile relationship between the two leaders.

Leading up to Poilievre’s visit, Houston released a campaign-style video on social media, prompting speculation about his intentions. The video featured a speech by Houston during the winter session of the Nova Scotia legislature, where he emphasized his Nova Scotian identity in the face of threats of tariffs from the United States government. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who is a close ally of Houston, commended the video and hinted at their strong relationship.

While the Conservative Party of Canada did not deny the reported phone call between Byrne and Houston’s team, they emphasized that the two leaders have communicated about issues important to Nova Scotians. Poilievre’s camp expressed eagerness to work closely with Premier Houston if elected, while Houston’s communications director reiterated the premier’s commitment to working with whomever forms the next government.

Houston had previously reached out to both Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Poilievre outlining priorities for Nova Scotia under the next federal government. Poilievre’s interactions with provincial premiers have come under scrutiny during the campaign, particularly after Ford declined to endorse him but met with Prime Minister Carney. Ford defended his criticisms of Poilievre’s campaign, stating that he needed to focus on his province.

Despite the tensions and political dynamics at play, Poilievre has received endorsements from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe. The evolving relationships between federal and provincial leaders underscore the complexities of political alliances and priorities during the election season.