Growing conservative movement in Canada is fighting back against ‘California on steroids,’ says strategist
As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation amid mounting pressure and tariff threats from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Canada’s conservative movement is poised to gain significant momentum in this election year. American conservative strategist Matt Shupe has been leading efforts in Calgary, training activists, consultants, and volunteers on how to build winning campaigns and positioning the movement for potential gains in the post-Trudeau era.
Shupe, who has been heavily involved in political consulting for the past decade, describes Canada as “California on steroids.” He draws parallels between Trudeau’s resignation and President Biden’s exit from the 2024 presidential race, noting that progressive policies have pushed even many liberals toward the center. Working with the Leadership Institute, a conservative mentorship and training organization, Shupe aims to apply lessons and data from U.S. elections to strengthen the prospects of Canadian conservatives.
One of the key figures in Canada’s conservative movement is Pierre Poilievre, a firebrand conservative candidate who has been compared to President-Elect Donald Trump. Poilievre, who leads the Conservative Party with nearly three times the support of committed voters compared to the Liberals, vows to crack down on immigration, inflation, and the budget deficit. As the Conservative Party gains popularity, Canadians have grown tired of Trudeau’s leadership, which has been plagued by declining approval ratings and frustration over rising inflation and the cost of living.
With the upcoming Canadian election, the Conservatives are poised to win, triggering a national vote that currently favors the party. Poilievre, who is set to become the nation’s next leader, has expressed a willingness to negotiate with the incoming Trump administration, seeking a deal that benefits both countries. Trudeau’s resignation signifies a shift in Canadian politics, with the Liberal Party set to select a new leader through a competitive process to offer Canadians a real choice in the next election.
As Canada prepares for a new era post-Trudeau, the conservative movement is gaining momentum and positioning itself for success in the upcoming election. With strong leadership from figures like Pierre Poilievre and support from American conservative strategists like Matt Shupe, the Conservative Party is set to make significant gains and potentially reshape the political landscape in Canada.
