Conservative Delegates Gather in Calgary for Crucial Leadership Vote on Pierre Poilievre
Final preparations were completed at the BMO Centre in Calgary on Thursday, January 29, 2026, as the Conservative Party of Canada convention commenced. More than 2,500 delegates have assembled to answer a pivotal question that has been looming for months: does Pierre Poilievre retain the confidence of his own party to continue as its leader?
Historic Leadership Review Amid Post-Election Reflection
Friday's leadership review marks a significant moment for the Conservative Party, representing the first such vote in over two decades. The last and only comparable review occurred after former Prime Minister Stephen Harper lost the 2004 election, with delegates subsequently granting him an 84 percent mandate at the following convention.
Conservatives gathered in Calgary for the three-day convention are hopeful that Poilievre can achieve similar or even stronger support levels. This comes in the wake of the 2025 election, which delivered the Liberals, under new leader Prime Minister Mark Carney, their fourth consecutive victory.
Delegates Express Support While Acknowledging Challenges
The mood among delegates remained upbeat as the convention opened with Thursday night's ceremonies, featuring a performance by country artist Brett Kissel. His song "Our Home" had become a staple at Poilievre's rallies during the campaign period.
However, memories of the recent election and its implications for Poilievre's leadership were never far from the surface. Delegate Charlie Martin from central Newfoundland expressed his perspective clearly: "I want to see at least a 90 percent for Pierre. It'll be to show the rest of the people that, you know, he's still strong." Martin confirmed his intention to support Poilievre in the leadership review scheduled for Friday evening.
Poilievre's Pre-Vote Campaign and Party Dynamics
In the lead-up to his review, Poilievre has been actively meeting with delegates to build support. Hamish Marshall, who managed the party's 2019 election campaign, has been involved in these efforts. For months, Poilievre has emphasized the Conservative Party's achievements in the last election, including:
- Capturing a historic 41.3 percent of the popular vote
- Achieving an all-time best result for the party
- Gaining more than 20 new seats
- Making significant inroads in crucial regions like the Greater Toronto Area and British Columbia
Party heavyweights have publicly endorsed Poilievre, with former interim leaders Rona Ambrose and Candice Bergen releasing supportive videos. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, scheduled to speak at the convention, has also voiced her endorsement.
Current Political Landscape and Future Challenges
As delegates convened on Thursday, the party highlighted its electoral successes by welcoming newly elected MPs from ridings previously held by Liberals and New Democrats. Despite these victories, recent public opinion polls present a challenging landscape:
- Carney's Liberals maintain a lead in voter preference
- Data indicates Canadians are generally satisfied with the Prime Minister's performance
- Negative impressions of Poilievre continue to pose obstacles for the Conservative Party
Another significant factor influencing the political climate involves concerns regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's policies. His implementation of tariffs and targeting of countries like Greenland has reignited sovereignty worries among Canadians.
Poilievre's Strategic Response and Convention Address
When Poilievre takes the stage to deliver his keynote speech on Friday night, he is expected to address multiple critical themes. His message will likely weave together:
- The Conservative Party's focus on affordability as their primary path to electoral success
- Responses to Canadian concerns about the current geopolitical environment
- A vision for party unity and future direction
The leadership review represents more than a simple vote of confidence—it serves as a barometer of party cohesion and strategic alignment as Conservatives prepare for future electoral challenges. The outcome will signal whether Poilievre has successfully consolidated support within his party or faces ongoing questions about his leadership as the Conservative Party navigates a complex political landscape.
