My first take from today's debate? If Poilievre gets elected, his first victim will be the Canadian Constitution; women, the Indigenous people, immigrants, and the CBC will follow. Soon, our country will look a lot like Trump's 51st State.
In the French-language debate held on April 16, 2025, Liberal Leader Mark Carney admirably stood his ground while facing criticism from his opponents, particularly Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who accused him of being out of touch and too similar to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Carney defended his position, emphasizing that he is his own man and is focused on addressing the current economic crisis and the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Despite concerns about his French fluency, Carney effectively communicated his vision, highlighting recent achievements; he reminded everyone in the room that in only one month, he's cut the carbon tax, negotiated a military partnership with Australia, started more intensive trade talks with France and the United Kingdom, and agreed to sit down with Trump after this election to craft a new bilateral agreement, if elected. He also promised to prioritize economic growth and national security if elected.
Poilievre was often aggressive and criticized Carney for past Liberal policies, arguing that re-electing the Liberals would mean more of the same issues. He asked Carney if he truly represents change, yet he is the one whose vision of change is stuck in the past and not the future.
Poilievre’s proposals, such as eliminating the CBC and transitioning to private media, reflect his desire to metamorphose Canada's media landscape into an American one, dominated by profitable media companies not accountable to the public but to consumerism.
His dismissal of a single-provider healthcare system undermines the Canadian identity, which values universal access to healthcare.
His intention to alter the “notwithstanding clause” raises concerns about his respect for fundamental rights and freedoms protected under the Charter. This move could potentially hinder progress toward equality and inclusion. Women should be very wary of his intentions.
Poilievre's plans to remove environmental regulations in favor of boosting oil and gas development indiscriminately and without consulting the Indigenous people indicate a narrow focus that neglects the importance of sustainability, inclusion, and diversity in the economy. Carney countered by advocating for a balanced approach that includes environmental considerations.
The debate also touched on immigration, with Carney acknowledging the system's shortcomings post-pandemic and suggesting a cap on population growth to manage resources better. Poilievre took a hardline stance against asylum seekers, particularly Haitians, while Carney expressed compassion but emphasized capacity limits.
Poilievre rejected the idea that he is a mini-Trump figure who would be subservient to the U.S. president if elected. He stated that he is prepared to meet with American leaders to negotiate a resolution to the ongoing trade dispute as quickly as possible.
Singh said he wasn't buying it. "You would make Canada more like the United States. You would Americanize it," he said.
Singh focused on Poilievre, claiming that the Conservatives would implement significant cuts to public services to fund his expensive proposed tax cuts. He stated that Poilievre would undermine health care to find savings to provide more money to the wealthy.
Overall, the debate highlighted Blanchet's commitment to protecting French Canadian rights, Poilievre's focus on financial concerns and his negative stance toward progressive ideas, Singh's strong opposition to conservatism, and Carney's effort to offer a fresh perspective while addressing criticisms of his party's legacy. This sets the stage for a competitive election, but in my opinion, Carney, for a first-timer, proved a formidable candidate, the best of all four.
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