Poilievre promotes unity after ex-Reform leader Preston Manning warns a Carney win will fuel Western secession
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is emphasizing national unity as he distances himself from former Reform Party leader Preston Manning’s recent comments suggesting that a vote for Liberal Leader Mark Carney could lead to Western secession.
During a campaign stop, Poilievre firmly stated, “We need to unite the country. We need to bring all Canadians together in a spirit of common ground.” Manning, a respected figure in conservative circles, expressed concerns about Carney being a threat to national unity, particularly in Western Canada. He warned that Western Canadians may not tolerate another four years of Liberal government due to longstanding grievances over natural resource policies.
Manning’s provocative op-ed in the Globe and Mail highlighted the potential for secession movements to spread beyond Alberta and Saskatchewan to other provinces and territories. He urged for a post-election forum to address growing support for Western secession in a democratic manner, cautioning that Carney could be remembered as the last prime minister of a united Canada.
Poilievre, who was involved with Manning’s Reform Party in his youth, emphasized the need for a Conservative government to foster unity across the country. He refrained from directly engaging with Manning’s arguments but reiterated his campaign platform focused on resource production, tax cuts, job creation, and standing up to foreign pressures like those from President Donald Trump.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also weighed in on the conversation, stating that while she is not pursuing a referendum on Alberta independence, there are mechanisms in place for citizens to voice their opinions through petition signatures. She emphasized her mandate to strengthen Canada rather than seek separation.
In a public letter to Quebec Premier François Legault, Smith proposed collaboration on enhancing provincial autonomy, suggesting a new direction for Canadian federalism. Poilievre’s remarks come at a time of heightened patriotism in response to Trump’s trade policies that have strained relations between the US and Canada.
As the election campaign unfolds, the debate over national unity and regional grievances continues to shape the political landscape. Poilievre’s commitment to unifying Canadians and addressing concerns from Western regions reflects his vision for a cohesive and prosperous Canada.
