The Calm Conservative (2025)

29/04/2025

BREAKING: Mark Carney will go on to lead a Liberal government following the 2025 General Election. Whether a majority or minority mandate, is not yet clear.

28/04/2025

The Final Stretch: Will Poilievre Overcome the Carney Surge?

With just one day until the April 28 election, new polling from Angus Reid confirms what many Canadians have sensed for weeks: Mark Carney's Liberals are pulling ahead while Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives struggle to regain momentum. The numbers tell a sobering story for conservatives, one that should spark serious reflection about how we got here, and where the movement goes next.

The Carney Factor

Since taking over from Justin Trudeau in February, Carney has successfully rebranded the Liberals as the party of "steady, competent leadership." His economic credentials have neutralized Poilievre's attacks on fiscal mismanagement, while his measured tone appeals to voters tired of divisive politics. The Angus Reid poll shows him gaining ground in key battlegrounds like Ontario and suburban ridings where elections are won or lost.

Poilievre's Uphill Battle

The Conservatives entered this campaign with advantages: frustration over affordability, anger at Liberal scandals, and a base hungry for change. Yet instead of capitalizing on these issues, the campaign has often seemed stuck in the past, relying on anti-Trudeau rhetoric long after Trudeau left the stage. While Poilievre energizes loyalists, his combative style has failed to win over the swing voters needed to form government.

The Choice Ahead

This election will decide more than just who governs Canada. It will shape the future of conservatism itself. Will the movement adapt to win over a changing country, or double down on strategies that polls suggest are increasingly resonating with fewer voters?

And what of the polls? History will tell you that the only poll that matters is the one on election day. Here at the Calm Conservative, we know that Conservatives in Canada regularly outperform the polls. But with advance voters leaning strongly Liberal vs. Conservative, nearly 43% to 34%, it will take a remarkable showing on election day for the Conservatives to close the gap.

Our Projection

Ultimately, this author believes the Conservatives and the Bloc will both outperform the final day polls. But, despite that, the results will be influenced by three major factors:

1) The bottom falling out in support for the NDP

2) The Poilievre team's late pivot on messaging in light of global uncertainty

3) The significant advantage in vote efficiency maintained by the Liberal party over the Conservatives

Any one of these factors alone might have been manageable, but together they present an insurmountable path to victory for the Conservatives. That leaves the Calm Conservative projection that the Liberal government will be successful in the election, but will fall short of the sweeping majority predicted by the polls.

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What do you think? Can Poilievre close the gap in these final days? What should conservatism learn from this campaign?

26/04/2025

Is Doug Ford Getting It Right on Trump's 51st State Comments?

There's something refreshing about seeing a conservative leader call out nonsense when they hear it. That's exactly what Ontario's Conservative Premier Doug Ford did this week when he dismissed Donald Trump's musings about making Canada the 51st state as "totally ridiculous." In doing so, Ford showed more backbone than some conservatives in the West who seem afraid to criticize the U.S. president, even when he disrespects Canadian sovereignty.

Trump's comments weren't just another offhand remark. They revealed a troubling pattern where Canadian interests become collateral damage in American political games. Ford seems to have recognized this early on and in our view he has responded the right way by defending Canada's independence without apology.

This matters because Trump's influence on conservatism has been damaging. His legacy includes broken trade relationships, eroded trust in institutions, and a coarsening of public debate that makes constructive conservatism a lot harder to sell here at home.

Ford has taken a different approach. He stood up to Trump on tariffs and fought for Ontario's auto sector while avoiding the performative outrage that turns politics into spectacle. The result? A conservative leader who delivers without embarrassing the country or his province.

We think other Canadian conservatives are wise to take note. There's a way to be strong on our interests without importing American political theatrics. We can defend conservative values without mimicking Trump's divisiveness. We can push back against bad ideas even from supposed allies.

Ford's response to Trump's 51st state nonsense shows how to deliver conservatism the right way. More conservatives should look to his example.

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What do you think? Should Canadian conservatives call out Trump more often? Or does Trump's brand of populism still offer value?

25/04/2025

The Conservative Identity Crisis: Why It's Time for a Real Conversation

There's an uncomfortable truth we need to address about today's Conservative movement; one that goes beyond partisan attacks and gets to the heart of what conservatism should stand for in Canada.

Recent debates have exposed a growing divide within conservative ranks. On one side, there's the populist wave, complete with angry rhetoric, conspiracy theories, and an obsession with "owning the libs." On the other, there are those who still believe in principled conservatism: fiscal responsibility, democratic institutions, and solutions that actually improve lives rather than just generate headlines.

The problem isn't just ideological. It's practical. When conservatism becomes more about performative outrage than real governance, it fails to address the issues Canadians actually care about like:

• Affordability, that's more than just slogans
• Healthcare systems that work
• Energy policy that balances economic and environmental realities responsibly
• Public safety without sacrificing civil liberties

This isn't about "moderates" versus "the base" or "red tories" versus blue ones. It's about whether conservatism can resurrect itself back to being a credible alternative for Canadians who want serious solutions. The trucker convoy and its aftermath revealed how quickly legitimate frustrations can be hijacked by extremism. Recently reports of conservative MPs and staffers being directed to weaponize Parliament committees to generate social media content instead of doing the work of government have also come to light. It's a testament to what happens when hyper-partisanship pervades every aspect of politics and speaks to how poorly some conservative leaders have handled those tests.

There's a better way forward. Conservatism at its best has always been about:

✓ Practical solutions over empty rhetoric
✓ Respect for institutions while demanding necessary reform
✓ Unity without uniformity
✓ Economic growth that lifts all Canadians

On April 28th, Canadians will head to the polls once again to make their voices heard. Canadian election history makes one thing clear: Opposition parties win elections by becoming governments-in-waiting. After a decade in opposition, and having generated a commanding lead in national polls (at least until February), the blue team should have been facing an easy path to victory. If that win doesn't materialize on Monday, the lesson will be that the Conservatives spent too long as protesters-in-waiting.

The question isn't whether conservatism is still relevant. It's what kind of conservatism can lead Canada forward? One that channels frustration into constructive change? Or one that thrives on division while offering little of substance?

We know which version Canadians need. The question is whether today's Conservative movement has the courage to embrace it.

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What do you think? What should conservatism stand for in 2025 and beyond?

12/04/2025

Separation Fantasy: Are Alberta's Loudest Voices Leading Their Province Toward Disaster?

Let’s be honest, Alberta has real grievances. The federal government’s dismissive attitude toward the West, its heavy-handed energy policies, and its failure to recognize the economic engine that fuels this nation have left many feeling alienated. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: Premier Danielle Smith, Preston Manning, and other separatist cheerleaders aren’t solving anything. They’re making it worse.

It's easy to get caught in the "all-or-nothing" trap.

Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have governed as if Alberta’s concerns don’t matter. Their approach to energy, equalization, and even basic infrastructure like pipelines has been short-sighted and dismissive. But the answer isn’t separation; it’s better leadership, better advocacy, and a stronger federation.

Yet instead of pushing for reform, Smith and Manning flirt with divisive, emotional rhetoric that plays well to a frustrated base but leads nowhere. Separation isn’t a protest, it’s a surrender. And worse, it’s a surrender that would leave Alberta weaker, poorer, and isolated.

Let's talk about the hard realities that fairweather separatists are ignoring.

First, Alberta can’t go it alone. Without oil royalties (which fluctuate wildly), Alberta has never balanced its budget. Separation means inheriting all federal costs, like pensions, defense, border security with no safety net. We’d lose access to Canadian markets overnight. No guaranteed pipelines. No free trade. Just a landlocked economy at the mercy of foreign negotiations, with limited leverage.

Indigenous rights are a Constitutional and legal minefield, that Alberta has neither the authority or money to address. Treaties 6, 7, and 8 were signed with the British Crown and taken on by Canada, not Alberta. If we separate, Indigenous Nations have already said they’re staying with Canada. That stands to jeopardize the oil sands, northern oil conventional petroleum and timber resources, and possibly even private land titles which could be impacted by unresolved claims.

We've seen the separation movie before, Quebec tried and failed; twice. If Quebec, as a territory that existed before Canada and without an Act of Parliament to create it (unlike Alberta), and with its distinct culture, language, and political leverage, couldn’t make separation work, what makes Alberta think it could?

Finally, there is the critical point: Canada Is worth fixing. Yes, the system is flawed. Confederation is a brutally cumbersome and awkward political machine. And, yes; Ottawa often ignores the West. But walking away isn’t strength, it’s simple self-sabotage.

Alberta leaders should be demanding fairness and using diplomacy to develop the relationships and leverage to get it. That's the job; not fantasizing about a breakup that will never happen. We should be holding Ottawa accountable, not pretending Alberta can thrive alone. And most of all, we should reject the voices stoking division instead of offering real solutions.

Canada isn’t perfect, but it’s ours. And like thousands of Albertans have put their hands up to do in the last 120 years, it’s worth fighting for.

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What do you think? Should Alberta focus on reforming Confederation and making the system work, or is separation a real option?

03/04/2025

Canada's Hidden Crises: Is the Tariff Debate Distracting From Bigger Problems?

If you ask most Canadians what their number one concern is leading up to the April 28th federal election, they might say tariffs. We have every reason to be concerned. As a functional reminder, Americans would pay the tariffs their government sets on any imports. However, eventually, American businesses will be less likely to import from the north, which means fewer jobs, less disposable income, and the other problems that come from a dramatic and sustained hit to any economy. However, something Pierre Poilievre said yesterday really resonated with this writer, and I wanted to share it with you as well.

"Some Liberal supporters and lobbyists have asked why I keep talking about the cost of living, housing, crime, and about the Liberal drug crisis, instead of focusing exclusively on Donald Trump. I will not stop talking about these problems, which predate Donald Trump and which will outlast Donald Trump if we do not act to fix them."

Let's start with crime. We dug up the crime stats from Statistics Canada from 2013-2023. With the exception of 2020, where the crime rate dropped by nine percent, the rate has moved upwards every single year under the Liberals. It would be fair to say the public health restrictions and lockdowns helped curb crime in 2020. So far in this campaign, the Grits have been largely silent on crime and justice, while Poilievre continues to raise the issue whenever and wherever he can.

When it comes to drugs, StatsCan numbers don't show much past 2019. However, while the overall usage of drugs is up, it's between 1-2 percent between 2015-19. We all want to see that number go down, but where the crisis lies is with opioids. StatsCan shows 21 deaths per day from opioid usage from January to September (2024), which is high. If there is any positive we can take from this, it's that compared to the same time period in 2023, that's a decrease of 12% though. Opioid-related hospitalizations are also down 13% over the same period. It can't be denied that there is improvement; but it's not nearly enough and not coming fast enough. Unfortunately, Liberal Leader Mark Carney has also been largely silent on this topic, while he seemingly remains focused on the ongoing trade war.

I won't discuss the housing crisis in this article in any depth. Both leaders have spoken on the plain-as-day fact that it's extremely difficult, if not impossible, for buyers to get into their first home. This issue deserves its own piece.

Generally speaking, affordability can be best measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Once again, we can tie the sharpest increases in inflation to COVID policy impacts. Shutting down supply chains was bound to impact the price of goods, and it certainly did that. In 2022, the 12-month change in the CPI was never higher than 1.1 percent between March of 2020 and February of 2021. For the period between July of 2021 and February of 2023, that number was never below four percent. Since March of 2023 to February of this year, that number went to 3 percent or higher six times. With the supply chain getting back on track, there is still inflation, but it has cooled down. Poilievre has touched on this point more than Carney and more effectively. Yesterday, we saw Trump's tariff plan roll out, and with the exception of our aluminum, steel, and cars, Canada came out unscathed for the most part. Canadian voters will have to decide who deserves the credit for that small victory.

But mid election campaign, that leaves us at the Calm Conservative with some questions.

With the tariff issue substantially reduced, will Canadians and Candidates now focus more on domestic issues as opposed to international ones?

Ontario, BC, and Alberta are the three provinces affected the most by opioid usage, so will we see strategies and attention to this crisis now shift in those provinces?

How do you see the campaign playing out now that the tariff threat has cooled down, at least for now?

30/03/2025

Danielle Smith & Ben Shapiro, 'Fan Girl' or Fighting for Alberta? What's Really Behind the Florida Trip

Was Danielle Smith on a working trip, or was the Premier "girl fanning" as NDP MLA Rahki Pancholi put it? We at the Calm Conservative had a variety of perspectives to comb through on this one. Some thought the trip to Florida was a good idea, and others felt it was generally pointless. However, one thing we always agree on here is that even when we disagree on some ideas, thoughtful discussion allows us to come to a consensus, and this topic is no different.

Only two premiers have been active when it comes to informing Americans that when the United States imposes tariffs, its citizens foot the bill. Ontario’s Doug Ford has been praised by people from all political stripes for his defiant and "elbows up" approach (as Mark Carney likes to put it). We all remember when Ford threatened to cut off electrical exports to some northern states, Donald Trump threatened additional tariffs that the history books would write about. Ford got the President’s attention. Smith also did her rounds with the American media and politicians. The bottom line, Premiers Smith and Ford both acted, while their counterparts around Canada were observers. Both should be praised for not being idle.

Let’s try to remove the optics of a trip to Florida and being at the $1,500 a plate fundraiser for the PragerU East Coast Gala. Smith met with Ben Shapiro, who runs the Daily Wire. Shapiro, in many circles, is considered a well-respected conservative podcaster and commentator. Regardless of how anyone feels about him, he boasts a following of approximately 25 million people. Shapiro has also been one of the few Republican commentators to question why tariffs are being imposed on Canada. In one video, Shapiro explains that protectionism is a "romantic idea" but always ends poorly for the people of its country.

On the other hand, Shapiro has also expressed support for Canada becoming the 51st state. We, and most Canadians, remain strongly opposed to the very suggestion. However, when it comes to the trade war, Shapiro rightly points out that Canada is the USA’s top trading partner. He also adds that other countries will see this economic act of aggression and question whether they should invest in the United States or direct their finances elsewhere. Like a true conservative would, Shapiro appreciates free trade and free markets. In that regard, Smith has found an influential counterpart in Shapiro who agrees that tariffs on Canadian products are bad for everyone, and is willing to say so. This matters.

The provincial NDP couldn’t wait to jump on Smith in the legislature for the trip. Pancholi accuses the Premier of "girl fanning". We had a rough idea what that term means, but just to be sure, we looked it up. We found it defined in Merriam-Webster as, "to exhibit fandom often to an excessive degree: to behave like an extremely devoted or overly excited fangirl." The irony on the part of an NDP politician using sexist language against the Premier is not lost on us.

However, the reality is that Smith had an opportunity to get in front of a major influencer who opposes tariffs on Canada. She was wise to take the opportunity. If there are more influencers south of the border who are willing to hear the Canadian side of this situation, any politicians should take it, regardless of political stripes.

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What do you think of Smith’s meeting with Shapiro? Was it a good idea to visit the Daily Wire’s founder?

Should Smith, and other premiers, be seeking more opportunities to interact with American influencers?

30/03/2025

Conservatives Are Tanking in the Polls: But You'll Be Shocked at Who is Really to Blame.

The Conservative campaign isn’t just struggling, it’s unraveling before our eyes. And according to party insiders, the fault doesn't lie at the feet of Mark Carney, the "legacy media", or foreign interference. A senior conservative advisor and strategist's antics and leadership style are being painted as the underlying cause of what appears to be our party's chaotic decline in public favour.

Let's be clear, this isn’t some minor disagreement between staffers. This is a full-blown civil war within Poilievre’s team, and it’s happening at the worst possible moment. While the Liberals gain ground with Carney’s steady-appearing leadership, our side now seems too busy fighting each other internally to put up a real fight. Jenni Byrne, better known for her skills as an attack dog than a political strategist, has been tagged as Senior Political Advisor and Chief Strategist to Pierre Poilievre.

What’s most frustrating is how predictable this all was. Kory Teneycke, the strategic genius behind Harper’s wins and who oversaw the rare 3 time majority for the Ontario PCs, saw this coming months ago. He warned that obsessing over Trudeau while ignoring Carney’s rise would backfire spectacularly. But did anyone listen? If they did, their voices didn't matter. Instead, Byrne’s team doubled down on their my-way-or-the-highway approach, pushing out anyone who dares question the strategy.

Now, Calm Conservatives are left watching the consequences play out in real time. A campaign that should be focused on winning over Canadians is instead consumed by infighting. Voters aren’t seeing bold Conservative solutions, they’re seeing petty internal squabbles. And in politics, perception is everything.

One has to wonder: would we be in this mess if the party had an "adult in the room" at the helm? Someone like Erin O’Toole, who at least understood the need for moderation? Or Rona Ambrose, whose principled yet pragmatic leadership earned respect across the aisle? Even Peter MacKay, for all his baggage, brought experience and gravitas that might have stood up better against Carney’s economic credentials. Instead, we’re stuck with a campaign that feels more like a protest movement than a government-in-waiting.

The contrast with Teneycke’s disciplined approach couldn’t be more stark. Harper’s campaigns worked because they stayed relentlessly on message and avoided these kinds of self-inflicted wounds. They understood that to beat the Liberals, you first need to get your own house in order, and keep it in order.

At this point, the question isn’t whether the campaign needs to change course. It’s whether there’s still time to salvage this disaster before election day. One thing’s for certain, continuing down this path isn’t just risking defeat, it’s guaranteeing it.

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What do you think? Is there still hope to turn this around, or has the damage already been done?

28/03/2025

The Conservative Party’s Unforced Error: Is It Too Late to Recover?

Is anyone else wondering what happened to our party?

Just months ago, the Conservatives were cruising toward what seemed like an inevitable victory. Now, under Pierre Poilievre’s leadership, they’re in freefall while the newly framed Mark Carney’s Liberals surge. This seems to be more than bad luck. It’s likely a failure of leadership, and maybe worse, a failure of vision.

Canadians have made it clear, they don’t want endless anger. They don’t want Trump-style division. They want actual solutions, and as with everything else in life these days, they want it right now. Our party under Poilievre, doesn't seem to have been built for that, instead we've counted on offering little more than slogans and spite.

So let's talk about where Poilievre went wrong.

1. The Anti-Trudeau Playbook Ran Out.

Railing against Trudeau worked… until Trudeau left. Now, with Carney, a respected economist, stepping in, the "fire the elites" rhetoric just sounds petty. Where’s the plan? "Axe the tax" isn’t enough when Carney is talking jobs, housing, and economic growth.

2. Carney Becoming Liberal Leader Should Have Been No Surprise.

Poilievre and the Conservative Party have been tweeting (or is it X-ing?) and sending out fear inducing party fundraising emails warning about Carney potentially running for Liberal leadership since as early as April 2024. So after a year of watching the crowd assemble, why did it still seem like we were caught in a fight with our hands in our pockets when the hits started coming?

3. Kindness Matters And Canadians Still Notice.

Poilievre’s relentless negativity has turned off suburban voters, especially women and older Canadians who don’t recognize this version of conservatism. Contrast that with Premiers like Doug Ford and Danielle Smith, both flawed in their own ways, yes; but getting things done based on their positions and platforms, even when unpopular. Ford stood up to Trump’s trade threats without demonizing Ottawa. Smith took a softer line trying to align with Trump republicans, but she led with action and showed up on American lesders' doorsteps, instead of just feigning anger and coming up with negative nicknames.

4. The Trump Effect Is Real.

Poilievre’s populist posturing, attacking media, mocking "elites," and fueling outrage now looks and feels dangerously close to U.S.-style politics. Its clear, Canadians don’t want that. They want strong, steady leadership not performative rage. The leadership styles of Harper and Mulroney come to mind as better Conservative examples.

So What’s Left for we Calm Conservatives?

Honestly, this writer fears it might already be too late. Carney has reset the Liberal brand, and Poilievre’s window to pivot is closing if it isn't already slammed shut. If the Conservatives lose this election, there is also the risk that the damage could be "generational", especially if the party doubles down on the approach of grievance over governance.

There’s another way. Look at Ford and Smith. They’re far from perfect and starkly different, but they both lead through action. They make tough calls, act on them and own the results. They don’t just complain, they build.

Maybe that’s the kind of conservatism Canadians might actually vote for federally too.

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What do you think? Is there still a path for Poilievre, or has the Conservative Party lost its way for good?

Drop your thoughts below. 👇 But let’s keep it respectful, because that’s what real leadership looks like.

10/03/2025

Happy Commonwealth Day!

Today, we celebrate the bonds that unite us across nations, cultures, and traditions. Together we thrive! We’re reminded that our shared values of peace, democracy, and collaboration make us stronger. Whether in Canada or across the Commonwealth, our diversity is our strength, and our unity is our power. Let’s continue to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive; together.

09/03/2025

SPECIAL COMMENT: Carney vs. Poilievre - A Battle of Vision vs. Populism?

Mark Carney’s landslide victory in the Liberal leadership race, with over 85% of the vote, has set the stage for what could be one of the most consequential federal elections in Canadian history. With Carney now poised to become the next Prime Minister, his victory speech included promises to immediately repeal the consumer carbon tax and cancel upcoming capital gains tax, increases signaling a dramatic shift in Liberal strategy. But how will this play out against Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives? Let’s break it down.

Carney, a former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, brings a reputation for economic competence and global credibility. His pledge to scrap the carbon tax—a policy deeply unpopular in many parts of the country—could neutralize one of Poilievre’s most effective attack lines. By positioning himself as a pragmatic centrist focused on affordability and economic growth, Carney is clearly aiming to appeal to disillusioned Conservative voters and moderates.

Poilievre, on the other hand, has built his brand on populist rhetoric, railing against “gatekeepers” and promising to “axe the tax.” But with Carney now vowing to do just that, Poilievre’s messaging may lose its edge. The Conservative leader will need to pivot quickly, likely doubling down on his critiques of government spending, housing affordability, and what he calls “woke” policies. The question is whether Poilievre’s divisive style can compete with Carney’s polished, data-driven approach.

This campaign will ultimately come down to a battle of visions. Carney will likely frame himself as the steady hand Canada needs in uncertain times, emphasizing his experience and ability to navigate complex economic challenges. Poilievre, meanwhile, will continue to position himself as the voice of the “common people,” promising to upend the status quo.

For Conservatives, this is a moment to reflect. Poilievre’s populism has energized the base, but Carney’s centrism could appeal to a broader coalition. If the Conservative Party wants to win, it must offer more than just anger and slogans—it must present a clear, credible alternative that resonates with Canadians who are tired of polarization but still want change.

The Carney-Poilievre showdown will be a fascinating clash of styles and substance. But one thing is certain: the stakes for Canada couldn’t be higher, and we'll certainly be watching.

We'll have more on the upcoming election showdown in the coming days. But for now, what do you think?

09/03/2025

Doug Ford’s Bold Stand Against Trump’s Tariffs: Why Are They Working?

In politics, as in life, there comes a time when leaders must choose between principle and partisanship. Newly re-elected Ontario Conservative Premier Doug Ford continues to show us what it looks like to stand firm on principle; even when it means taking on one of the most polarizing figures in modern politics: Donald Trump. Ford’s aggressive stance against Trump’s tariff threats, in defence of Canadian interests, defines a distinctly Conservative approach to leadership.

When Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on most Canadian goods earlier this month, Ford didn’t mince words. He slammed the U.S. president for “causing chaos” and warned of the dire consequences for American workers, factories, and consumers. Ford’s message was clear: these tariffs aren’t just a problem for Canada; they’re a self-inflicted wound on the United States. He even went so far as to suggest he’d campaign against Trump in the 2026 midterms if necessary. This isn’t the kind of rhetoric we’re used to hearing from Canadian leaders, but it’s exactly what the moment called for.

What’s most striking about Ford’s approach is how effectively he’s targeted his message. By appearing on U.S. cable news shows, including Fox News, Ford has taken his case directly to American conservatives—the very audience Trump listens to. He’s framed the tariffs as a threat to American jobs and inflation, issues that resonate deeply with Trump’s base. This strategy has clearly struck a nerve. Trump’s commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, reportedly called Ford to ask him to tone down his rhetoric. The fact that Ford refused speaks volumes about his resolve.

Compare this to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s approach. While Smith has attempted friendly overtures and half-measures, her efforts have done little to move the needle. In no tome after the tariffs were imposed Ford was able to post video of American alcohol coming off shelves across the province, which played across American media. A few days later, Smith's government says they will keep selling American whiskey, beer, and wine but only until stockpiles run out, and then they won't buy anymore.

Of course, that message has to be contrasted with the one released by AGLC few days earlier to much less fanfare; where Alberta decided that effective April 1st, it would be collecting higher taxes and fees on out of province wines, like the ones we'll have to get from BC by then. All of that is in addition to Premier Smith's repeated televised statements of concern for "American consumers and American companies" which keep her from restricting energy exports to the United States in response to Trump's aggression. So much for open borders between provinces, and standing up for our own.

In contrast, Ford’s aggressive, no-nonsense stance has captured attention and forced the Trump administration to take notice. This isn’t just about tariffs; it’s about leadership. Ford has shown that standing up for Canadian interests requires more than polite diplomac. It demands courage, clarity, and a willingness to confront bullies head-on.

Ford’s approach is distinctly Conservative because it’s rooted in common sense and a commitment to protecting the interests of ordinary people. Conservatives believe in free trade, but we also believe in fairness and keeping our word. Trump’s tariffs are neither free nor fair, they violate agreements between our two Countries, and Ford has rightly called them out for what they are: a reckless policy that harms both Canadians and Americans. By standing up to Trump, Ford is defending the principles of free markets, economic stability, and mutual respect that have long been cornerstones of Conservative thought.

Some critics have dismissed Ford’s rhetoric as opportunistic or late to the game. But the truth is, Ford’s willingness to adapt and take a hard line against Trump shows a leader who is putting the interests of his province, and his country, above partisan loyalty. This is what Conservatism at its best looks like: pragmatic, principled, and unafraid to challenge those who threaten our values and our way of life.

As a Calm Conservatives, this writer is pretty proud of Ford’s leadership in this moment. He’s shown that standing up to bullies isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s the Conservative thing to do. And in doing so, he’s reminded us that true leadership isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about doing what’s right, no matter the cost.

The Calm Conservative

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