Conservative Spirits High in Calgary as Poilievre Prepares for Potential Spring Election
For a political party currently in opposition and facing the prospect of a spring election against an increasingly popular prime minister, the Conservative delegates gathered in Calgary on Friday were a remarkably high-spirited group. The atmosphere at the BMO Centre on the Calgary Stampede grounds was notably upbeat, with members actively participating in policy voting and presentations throughout the day.
Leadership Review and Party Unity
Despite speculation about potential challenges to Pierre Poilievre's leadership, there was little evidence of discontent among the Conservative faithful. The mood stood in stark contrast to the sniping that had been audible during Poilievre's Stampede visit just nine months prior. Delegates appeared united and motivated as they prepared for Sunday evening's leadership vote following Poilievre's scheduled speech.
Garry Keller, a longtime Conservative activist who previously served as chief of staff to John Baird during the Harper government, expressed the prevailing sentiment among attendees. "There is a good feeling, people are pumped to be here," Keller remarked. "They are here, they are very much motivated to support Pierre." Keller, who plans to run again in the next election, represents the committed support Poilievre enjoys within certain party circles.
Election Preparedness and Liberal Challenges
Conservative members were acutely aware of the possibility of facing an election this spring. While Liberal talk of potential floor crossers continues to circulate, there remains skepticism within Conservative ranks about such developments. Chris Warkentin, the Conservative whip and MP for Grande Prairie, Alberta, acknowledged the likelihood of an impending election, noting that "it certainly feels like the Liberals are laying the groundwork to call one."
Warkentin criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney's performance, stating, "What's startling is how little Mark Carney has done." He specifically referenced Bill C-5, legislation designed to facilitate approval of major projects in Canada's national economic interest, claiming the government has failed to utilize this authority effectively.
Strategic Responses and Organizational Changes
The Conservative response to recent Liberal tactics has been measured and strategic. When Liberals attempted to provoke Poilievre during his leadership review by mocking him and accusing Conservatives of obstructionism, the party avoided falling into what they perceived as traps. Instead, Conservatives highlighted their 19 motions calling for the Justice Committee to study bail reform legislation, noting that Liberals had refused such study until recently.
Behind the scenes, Poilievre has initiated several organizational changes that could impact the party's future prospects:
- Reaching out to former political rivals to build bridges, though this outreach remains incomplete
- Increasing engagement with caucus members through small group meetings at Stornoway
- Transitioning campaign leadership from Jenni Byrne to Steve Outhouse, fresh from successful campaigns in Newfoundland and Alberta
- Preparing for the departure of chief of staff Ian Todd, who has served since Poilievre's 2022 leadership victory
Looking Forward with Cautious Optimism
As Conservatives prepare to depart Calgary, there remains some lingering disappointment about their previous election loss. However, the prevailing mood is one of hopeful anticipation for future contests. The party appears focused on maintaining unity while implementing structural changes that could strengthen their position ahead of potential electoral challenges.
The leadership review process has revealed a Conservative Party that, while acknowledging past setbacks, remains determined and optimistic about its prospects under Pierre Poilievre's continued leadership. The Calgary gathering demonstrated both the challenges facing the opposition and their resolve to address them strategically as they look toward potential spring elections.
