Just days before the fall session of the House of Commons begins, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has confirmed his intention to trigger a federal election at the earliest opportunity. Speaking from Parliament Hill, Poilievre announced his plan to move a non-confidence motion against the Liberal government, challenging both the NDP and Bloc Québécois to support his efforts.
“The ‘Common Sense Conservatives’ will put forward a non-confidence motion at the earliest possible opportunity,” Poilievre stated. He also urged the NDP to break their supply and confidence deal with the Liberals and join his party in allowing Canadians to vote.
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, however, rejected Poilievre’s call. “I’m not going to listen to your advice,” Singh responded, accusing Poilievre of attempting to dismantle social programs such as dental care.
While Singh did not reveal how the NDP would vote, he emphasized that his party would make a decision based on each vote’s merit. Meanwhile, Bloc Québécois MPs have signaled that they may present demands to the Liberal government in exchange for their support.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking from a caucus meeting in Nanaimo, B.C., responded by expressing confidence in his government’s ability to contrast their policies with those of the Conservatives, saying he looks forward to the political battles ahead.
Canadians will head to the polls for by-elections in two ridings on Monday, while the next federal election is required by law to take place by October 2025 at the latest.