Conservative caucus to meet Tuesday as MPs press on after election loss

The Conservative caucus is set to convene on Parliament Hill for a crucial meeting following their defeat in the recent election. Party sources have informed CBC News that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has been actively engaging with caucus members and unsuccessful candidates to discuss the election results and make a case for his continued leadership.

Despite falling short in the election and losing his own seat, Poilievre has received a positive response from caucus members during these conversations. There is a prevailing sentiment within the party that Poilievre should remain at the helm, citing leadership fatigue after multiple changes in leadership over the past decade.

One of the key factors supporting Poilievre’s leadership is the party’s performance in key ridings in the Greater Toronto Area and southwestern Ontario. While the Conservatives managed to increase their vote share, they were unable to unseat the Liberals.

During the meeting, MPs will decide whether to adopt Reform Act provisions that allow caucus to initiate a leadership review through a secret ballot. This mechanism was previously used to remove Poilievre’s predecessor, Erin O’Toole.

Furthermore, with Poilievre losing his seat, MPs will need to select a new Official Opposition leader as per legal requirements. However, it is uncertain if this decision will be made during Tuesday’s meeting.

Several names have been suggested as potential candidates for the Opposition leader position, including deputy leader Melissa Lantsman, former leader Andrew Scheer, and ethics critic Michael Barrett. These individuals have been close allies of Poilievre and have publicly endorsed his leadership following the election loss.

In an interview on CBC’s Power & Politics, Conservative MP Jamil Jivani expressed confidence in Poilievre’s ability to lead the party and expand its base. He emphasized the party’s diverse and urban-focused support and stated that Poilievre has the potential to further grow this coalition.

Regarding potential changes in Poilievre’s staff, particularly campaign manager Jenni Byrne, Jivani deferred to the leader’s judgment, indicating trust in Poilievre’s decision-making.

As the Conservative caucus gathers to chart their path forward, the decision on Poilievre’s leadership and the selection of a new Opposition leader will be critical in shaping the party’s direction in the aftermath of the election.