Carney calls Preston Manning’s Western independence comments ‘dramatic’
Liberal Leader Mark Carney recently addressed comments made by prominent conservative Preston Manning regarding Western independence during a campaign stop in Montreal. Manning, the founder of the Reform Party, expressed concerns about Western alienation and the potential for support for independence to grow if the Liberals are re-elected.
In a recent op-ed for The Globe and Mail, Manning warned that a vote for the Carney Liberals could lead to Western secession and the breakup of Canada as we know it. He highlighted Alberta and Saskatchewan as the epicenters of this movement, citing longstanding grievances with the Liberals’ natural resource policies.
Carney, however, dismissed Manning’s remarks as dramatic and unhelpful, emphasizing that he governs for all of Canada, including the West. He pointed out his roots in the Northwest Territories and Edmonton, underscoring his commitment to unity and inclusivity.
Manning’s comments come at a time when Canadian sovereignty and pride are being reaffirmed in the face of escalating trade tensions with the United States. Carney stressed the importance of national unity and cohesion, noting that division is counterproductive during these challenging times.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre distanced himself from Manning’s views, emphasizing the need to unite the country and foster a sense of common ground among all Canadians. Poilievre, who worked under Manning in the Reform Party, made it clear that he did not agree with the notion of Western secession.
As the election campaign progresses, Carney plans to visit Western Canada to engage with voters and address their concerns. The Conservatives maintain a strong lead in Alberta and the Prairies, while the Liberals are narrowly ahead in British Columbia, according to the CBC Poll Tracker.
Overall, Carney’s message of unity and inclusivity resonates with voters across the country, as he strives to bridge regional divides and govern for the betterment of all Canadians.
