Poilievre Tells Conservative Convention He Will Push Back Against Liberals and Focus on Cost of Living

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre used a speech at the party’s national convention in Calgary to outline his priorities ahead of a leadership vote, focusing heavily on affordability, government spending, and opposition to the Liberal government.

Speaking to party members, Poilievre said Conservatives need to present themselves as a clear alternative for Canadians who are struggling with rising costs. Much of his address centered on housing prices, food costs, and what he described as government policies that make daily life more expensive.

Poilievre accused the Liberal government of failing to manage inflation and argued that federal spending has contributed to higher prices. He said a Conservative government would aim to reduce government waste, lower taxes, and remove what he called barriers to building more homes.

Throughout the speech, Poilievre positioned himself as a defender of people who feel shut out of economic opportunity. He said Canadians should be able to afford housing, keep more of their paycheques, and rely less on government programs. His remarks echoed themes he has used consistently since becoming leader, particularly around personal responsibility and smaller government.

The convention speech came as party members prepared to vote on Poilievre’s leadership, a process that allows members to signal whether they want him to continue in the role. While leadership reviews are common, the event gave Poilievre a national platform to reinforce his message and energize supporters.

He also criticized what he described as excessive regulation and slow government decision-making, arguing that these issues hurt businesses and limit job creation. Poilievre said Conservatives would focus on policies aimed at increasing productivity and encouraging private investment.

In contrast to the Liberals, Poilievre said his party would prioritize what he called “common sense” approaches to economic issues. He did not outline detailed policy proposals during the speech but emphasized broad principles around affordability, accountability, and economic growth.

Reaction from party members in attendance was largely supportive, with applause following repeated attacks on the Liberal government. Opposition parties have previously argued that Poilievre’s proposals lack detail and could lead to cuts in public services, a criticism he did not directly address in his remarks.

As the convention wrapped up, the focus remained on how Poilievre’s message will resonate beyond party members and whether it will translate into broader voter support ahead of the next federal election.