On Day 3 of Canada’s federal election campaign, party leaders crisscrossed key battlegrounds with new pledges and sharpened rhetoric. Issues ranging from national security and foreign interference to affordable housing and dental care dominated the day’s headlines.
Poilievre Vows to ‘Protect’ Childcare and Dental Programs
Campaigning in Vaughan, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre clarified his party’s position on major federal social programs, saying a Conservative government would “protect” dental care and $10/day childcare.
“We will make sure that nobody loses their dental care,” Poilievre said. “And we all believe that there should be more affordable childcare in this country.”
In a statement, the Conservative Party confirmed it would honour existing agreements with provinces on childcare and maintain the federal dental care program—a departure from past ambiguity that had prompted concern from the Liberals and NDP.
Carney Promises Military Pay Raises, Faces Questions on China Ties
Liberal Leader Mark Carney, campaigning in Nova Scotia, emphasized the party’s support for the Canadian Armed Forces and pledged pay increases for military personnel. The announcement comes amid efforts to bolster national defence in the face of rising global tensions.
However, Carney faced criticism from Poilievre, who alleged that Carney had used his role as economic advisor to Justin Trudeau to benefit from dealings with China, referencing a loan deal involving Brookfield Asset Management.
Carney, who resigned from Brookfield earlier this year, has not responded directly to the allegations. CTV News has requested comment from both the Liberal Party and Brookfield.
Singh Targets Foreign Interference, Slams Poilievre on National Security
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh continued his Toronto tour, where he condemned Poilievre for refusing to obtain security clearance amid new reports of alleged Indian interference in the 2022 Conservative leadership race.
“If you care about democracy, you get security clearance to protect our country,” Singh said. “He chose partisan interests over national interests. That disqualifies him from being prime minister.”
Singh also met with renters in Toronto alongside Toronto Centre candidate Dr. Samantha Green, amplifying concerns about housing affordability and linking Carney to Brookfield’s property investments.
Bloc Leader Blanchet Accuses Liberals and Conservatives of Security Negligence
Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet called out both major parties, claiming they have been “careless with national security” and allowed foreign powers to infiltrate their internal affairs. He cited recent media reports and intelligence concerns as justification.
“It’s like leaving the garage door open when you go on vacation,” Blanchet quipped.
Polling Snapshot: Liberals Widen Lead
A new Leger poll conducted for The Canadian Press shows the Liberal Party leading with 44% of decided voters, ahead of the Conservatives at 38%. The NDP trails at 6%. Nearly half of respondents (48%) believe the Liberals will win the election, compared to 31% who believe the Conservatives will.