The gloves were off during the April 17 English-language leaders’ debate for the upcoming federal election.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre focused on cost-of-living issues while blaming Liberal Leader Mark Carney and his party for rising prices, housing shortages and what he called a “struggling economy.”
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Poilievre linked Carney to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, saying the two share the same failed policies.
Carney, however, tried to distance himself from Trudeau, highlighting his experience managing global economic crises.
Both leaders supported strong action against possible trade threats from a second Donald Trump presidency.
Carney leaned on his international background as a strength Canadians can count on. He framed himself as someone prepared to deal with Trump’s aggressive trade tactics.
In contrast, Poilievre promised to boost Canada’s energy independence and reduce reliance on the United States. Poilievre stayed focused on economic issues and worked to connect with middle-class voters.
Meanwhile, Carney faced criticism on topics such as his involvement with Brookfield Management’s relocation timeline and artificial intelligence as part of national sovereignty and security.
During the debate, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh targeted Carney and Poilievre for failing to support working Canadians.
Singh pushed for affordable housing, dental care and tougher taxes on corporations. He positioned the NDP as the only party focused on fairness and every-day struggles.
Over the weekend, Carney released a costed platform that would add $130 billion to the national deficit over the next four years.
The NDP’s platform show nearly significant spending, which isn’t accounted for in revenue.
The Conservatives’ platform, released on April 22, would add just over $100 billion.
As of April 21, 338Canada.com shows the Liberals forming a majority government with 184 seats. The Conservatives come second with 126. The Bloc would get 23 seats, the NDP 9, and the Green Party 1 seat.
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