Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has easily passed the biggest leadership test since taking charge of the party in September 2022.
After delivering a campaign-style speech to party members at the Conservative convention in Calgary on Friday night, Poilievre received 87.4 per cent support in a leadership review vote. The results were released early Saturday morning, with party officials saying about 95 per cent of eligible members voted.
Poilievre’s nearly 50-minute speech included frequent applause and chants from the crowd. He strongly criticized Liberal policies, blaming the government for high taxes, rising grocery prices, youth unemployment and housing costs. He said Canadians are struggling to afford everyday life under Liberal rule.
He also spoke about immigration, national unity and public safety, saying systems like health care and housing are under strain. Poilievre promised to fight for Canadians who feel overworked and underappreciated, and warned that the country is more divided than ever.
Poilievre highlighted his proposed Canadian Sovereignty Act, which would roll back several Liberal laws and taxes, including the industrial carbon price and emissions caps on oil and gas. He said the plan would encourage businesses to reinvest in Canada.
Party rules require Conservative leaders to face a review vote after an election loss. Poilievre previously won the party leadership in 2022 with more than 68 per cent support. The last Conservative leader to face a similar review was Stephen Harper in 2005, when he received 84 per cent backing.
Despite recent polling that puts the Liberals ahead nationally, the Conservative Party says it is financially strong, setting a fundraising record in 2025 by raising nearly $48 million. Poilievre said the funds will help prepare the party for the next federal election.
