Conservative Leadership Debate Ignites as Reader Backs O'Leary in 2026 Letters
Reader Urges Kevin O'Leary for Conservative Leadership

A recent publication of letters to the editor has ignited fresh discussion around the future of the Conservative Party of Canada, with one reader making a bold pitch for a familiar face from the business world.

In a letter published on January 13, 2026, a reader from Whitby, identified as M. Bible, presented a provocative suggestion for the party's direction. The writer argued that should current leader Pierre Poilievre fail to secure a vote of confidence in an upcoming leadership review, there is only one candidate capable of leading the Conservatives to victory.

A Call for 'Mr. Wonderful'

The letter passionately endorses Kevin O'Leary, the entrepreneur and television personality known as "Mr. Wonderful," for the role. The reader acknowledges O'Leary's withdrawal from the 2017 Conservative leadership race but contends the country's economic situation is now far more dire, necessitating his "knowhow and expertise." The appeal is framed as a long shot, suggesting it would require the party to figuratively "get down on bended knees" to persuade him.

This endorsement comes amidst ongoing political maneuvering in Ottawa, as highlighted in another published letter reacting to a January 5 report.

Criticism of Floor-Crossing and Liberal Tactics

A second correspondent, Claudio Ceolin of Toronto, addresses the issue of political defections. The letter references a story titled "Liberals 'pulling out all the stops' to lure MPs, B.C. Conservative says" by Jordan Ercit. Ceolin argues that while encouraging an MP to cross the floor is not illegal, it undermines the democratic process, as voters typically support a candidate based on party affiliation.

The writer commends B.C. Conservative MP Scott Anderson for rejecting federal Liberal offers to defect, stating he stayed loyal to his constituents and political principles. This stance is contrasted with former Conservative MPs Michael Ma and Chris d'Entremont, who were successfully enticed to join the governing Liberals. The letter concludes with a pointed prediction that the Liberals will not cease these efforts despite Anderson's refusal.

Scathing Review of Freeland's Tenure

A third letter offers a blistering critique of Deputy Prime Minister and former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. The writer, Albert O'Connell of Cornwall, reacts with incredulity to reports of Freeland being considered for prestigious roles, such as CEO of the Rhodes Trust or a special representative for Ukraine's reconstruction.

O'Connell asserts that Freeland and her "Liberal cohorts have destroyed Canada," questioning her economic management capabilities to the extent of doubting her ability to "operate a lemonade stand." The letter ends with a terse warning that those considering her for such positions will "learn the hard way."

These letters, published together, paint a picture of a politically engaged readership focused on leadership, party integrity, and economic stewardship as key issues in the Canadian political landscape of early 2026.