NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has unequivocally rejected calls from the Conservatives and the Bloc Québécois to help bring down the Liberal minority government, reaffirming his party’s commitment to focusing on the well-being of Canadians instead of political maneuvering.
Singh addressed reporters at the House of Commons, stating, “We’re not going to play their games. I will not let Pierre Poilievre, the ‘king cut,’ or the Bloc call the shots.” This marks the debut of a new nickname for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, as Singh made it clear that the New Democrats will not be aligning with the Conservatives and Bloc to initiate a non-confidence vote against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government.
The Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet recently indicated his intention to collaborate with the Conservatives in an effort to bring down the Liberals, following unmet demands on legislation related to old age security and supply management. Despite these moves, the combined opposition numbers are insufficient to force an early election without NDP support.
Singh emphasized that while his party remains ready for an election, they will only trigger one if it serves the interests of Canadians. “We’ll look at any bill or motion, and if it’s going to help people during these challenging times, we’re open to that,” he said.
This statement follows two previous non-confidence motions brought forward by the Conservatives earlier in the fall, which failed due to a lack of support from both the NDP and the Bloc.
The NDP’s stance effectively acts as a crucial barrier preventing an early election call, highlighting Singh’s focus on policy rather than political posturing amidst heightened tension in the House.