The leaders of the four main federal parties in Canada engaged in a heated televised debate, addressing their strategies for dealing with US President Donald Trump, alongside contentious issues like energy and housing. This first debate of the election campaign was conducted in French and was particularly significant as it aimed to attract voters in the crucial province of Quebec.
During the debate, Liberal leader and current Prime Minister Mark Carney, despite holding a slight lead in the polls, faced challenges articulating his points in French, which is regarded as his weaker language. As the candidates took the stage, each leader was put to the test, revealing their positions on various pressing issues. Carney struggled to convey his message effectively, occasionally leading to brief responses that lacked depth.
Key topics addressed in the debate
The candidates included Carney, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet, and New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh, with Radio-Canada journalist Patrice Roy moderating. The debate commenced with Roy asserting that the brief 36-day federal election campaign had been significantly influenced by Trump, prompting leaders to discuss their campaign promises that were unrelated to the US situation. However, the focus quickly shifted to the ongoing trade war with the United States, a pivotal point in their political discourse.
Trump’s administration has imposed substantial tariffs on Canadian goods, including a blanket 25% tariff, which has raised concerns about the economic impact on Canada. Poilievre took the opportunity to criticize the Liberal government for what he perceived as a decade of weakening the country, suggesting it has made Canada more susceptible to external economic pressures. In response, Carney highlighted his extensive experience as a former central banker and his understanding of global economic dynamics, asserting, ““[Trump] respects people who understand the world and how the private sector works.”
Debate highlights and future implications
Singh, from the NDP, sought to portray both Carney and Poilievre as unfavorable options for Canadians whose livelihoods could be jeopardized by US tariffs, stating, “Both will cut taxes for millionaires and billionaires.” The debate, especially for Carney, was an early indicator of his effectiveness on the campaign trail, particularly as he faces heightened scrutiny in Quebec, where the majority of French-speaking Canadians reside.
The discussion also navigated other critical issues such as Canada’s housing crisis and the balance between climate initiatives and economic growth. Poilievre expressed a commitment to reducing taxes and regulatory barriers to promote home building, asserting, “We don’t need more bureaucracy, we need more front doors.” In a rare moment of agreement, he and Carney concurred on the necessity to enhance oil and gas production in Canada, while Carney maintained that climate priorities would still guide his energy policies.
Amid these discussions, candidates acknowledged the challenges of integrating newcomers and asylum seekers into Canadian society, particularly with the recent increase in asylum seekers attempting to enter through Quebec due to the US’s stringent immigration policies.
Notably absent from the debate was the Green Party, which was disqualified by the debate commission for not meeting specific eligibility criteria. The Green Party co-leader condemned the decision as “baseless” and “undemocratic,” reflecting the ongoing tensions within the campaign landscape.
The next debate, scheduled to be held in English, promises to draw a broader audience and will provide another opportunity for the candidates to refine their positions before the general election, set for April 28.