Conservative MPs Question Poilievre’s Leadership After RCMP Podcast Comments
Recent comments made by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre regarding the RCMP have sparked intense scrutiny from party members. Following a controversial podcast appearance, several caucus members are voicing doubts about Poilievre’s leadership viability.
Internal Concerns Amid Leadership Critique
Five Conservative Members of Parliament (MPs) highlighted their concerns to Radio-Canada, stating that Poilievre has yet to adapt his messaging significantly since the last election. These MPs feel he is failing to embody the qualities expected of a prime minister.
- Five MPs expressed doubts about supporting Poilievre in an upcoming confidence vote.
- Concerns were raised about his commentary and its implications for his leadership.
From interviews with ten Conservative sources—including seven caucus members—four indicated uncertainty about backing Poilievre in January’s confidence vote, a departure from their previous support. One source described Poilievre’s remarks as “completely irresponsible,” specifically citing his call for legal repercussions against a former prime minister.
Contentious Comments on RCMP and Trudeau
On the YouTube channel Northern Perspective, Poilievre claimed that former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had broken the law, referencing past scandals. His remarks included harsh criticism of RCMP leadership, which he referred to as “despicable.”
- Comments targeted former RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki.
- Poilievre accused the RCMP of covering scandals related to the Liberal government.
One Conservative MP, who previously supported Poilievre, noted that his fixation on Trudeau suggests he struggles to move past past election losses. Upcoming caucus meetings are expected to address these remarks directly.
Support and Doubt Within the Party
Despite the criticism, Poilievre still maintains a degree of support among certain party members. Pierre Paul-Hus, his Quebec lieutenant, reaffirmed his confidence in the leader, attributing Poilievre’s remarks primarily to issues surrounding Lucki’s leadership.
A written statement from Poilievre aimed to clarify his position, asserting his comments were directed at Lucki’s history of scandals linked to political interference, not at the RCMP as a whole.
Another Conservative MP acknowledged Poilievre’s podcast comments as a misstep but argued it was not a critical failure. This MP urged the party to show patience with leadership following previous short-lived tenures with leaders like Andrew Scheer and Erin O’Toole.
Looking Ahead
With a confidence vote approaching, party members are weighing the implications of Poilievre’s statements. How these internal discussions will develop remains to be seen as they navigate leadership challenges and set the future direction for the Conservative Party.
