After criticizing RCMP leadership on a podcast, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is facing scrutiny from some party members regarding their continued support for him. Concerns have been raised by five Conservative caucus members who feel that Poilievre has not sufficiently altered his message since the last election campaign and is not projecting the image expected of a potential prime minister.
To protect their anonymity and discuss internal party matters openly, Radio-Canada did not disclose the identity of the sources. In total, Radio-Canada interviewed 10 Conservative insiders from various regions, including seven caucus members. Among them, four sources expressed uncertainty about backing Poilievre in an upcoming confidence vote scheduled for January, despite having supported him in the past.
One source described Poilievre’s recent remarks as “completely irresponsible,” particularly his comments about a former prime minister potentially facing imprisonment. During an appearance on the YouTube channel Northern Perspective, Poilievre accused former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of breaking the law in relation to the 2019 Aga Khan scandal and the SNC-Lavalin affair. He also criticized the RCMP for allegedly covering up these incidents and labeled their leadership as “despicable” in enforcing laws against the Liberal government.
The critical comments made by Poilievre have led some party members to doubt his ability to become prime minister. One Conservative MP, who previously supported Poilievre in a leadership contest, suggested that Poilievre remains fixated on Trudeau and is struggling to move past his electoral defeat. Concerned about the situation, sources plan to seek clarification from Poilievre during an upcoming caucus meeting on Parliament Hill.
Despite the internal criticism, many party members emphasize that Poilievre still commands significant support within the Conservative ranks. In a separate statement, Pierre Paul-Hus, Poilievre’s Quebec lieutenant, expressed confidence in the leader, stating his value to the country and Quebec. Paul-Hus clarified that Poilievre’s remarks were primarily aimed at former RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki, attributing her actions to several errors and adherence to political directives.
In response to the backlash, Poilievre issued a written statement defending his comments, highlighting Lucki’s controversial track record within the RCMP. While some view Poilievre’s podcast remarks as a misstep, others downplay the situation, suggesting that everyone can make mistakes. A source close to Poilievre praised his unique political style and authenticity, crediting these attributes for the party’s strong performance in the popular vote during the recent federal election.
