Commonwealth_ During the first French-language federal election debate held in Montreal, Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre found common ground on the issue of building new oil and gas pipelines, citing national security as a key reason for their shared stance. The debate featured the leaders of Canada’s four main federal parties and unfolded against the backdrop of uncertainty surrounding the return of U.S. President Donald Trump. His influence on Canada-U.S. relations and trade was a recurring theme throughout the night. The leaders debated topics structured around five key areas: the cost of living, energy and climate, the trade war with the United States, identity and sovereignty, and immigration and foreign affairs. Moderator Patrice Roy acknowledged Trump’s looming presence as he directed questions on sensitive domestic and international issues.
Energy and pipeline infrastructure took center stage during a discussion on climate change. Poilievre emphasized the strategic importance of having a national pipeline system, pointing out that Alberta oil currently needs to pass through the United States to reach eastern Canada. He argued that such dependence gives undue power to foreign governments over Canada’s energy supply and undermines the country’s sovereignty. He pushed for a pipeline that would connect Alberta oil directly to the rest of Canada, eliminating reliance on U.S. infrastructure. Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet pushed back on the pipeline proposal, questioning the feasibility and cost of such a project. He highlighted the massive expenditure involved in the Trans Mountain expansion and cast doubt on whether a longer national pipeline would attract investors, particularly given Europe’s decreasing appetite for fossil fuels. He reiterated the need for Canada to gradually move away from oil production due to the long-term costs of climate inaction.
Poilievre countered that pipelines are economically viable and do not require government subsidies. He blamed high construction costs on existing bureaucratic red tape and regulatory hurdles that delay project approvals and drive up expenses. Carney entered the exchange after trailing in speaking time, reinforcing concerns about the national implications of depending on the U.S. for energy transportation. He framed the issue as a matter of national security and said Canada’s evolving relationship with the U.S. necessitates a more independent energy strategy. He highlighted recent discussions with provincial premiers about creating a national energy corridor and removing trade barriers to accelerate infrastructure development.
Blanchet, representing Quebec’s distinct stance on climate policy, reiterated that the environmental and economic risks of continued oil production are too high. He maintained that the costs of climate change, including damages and reparations, would burden Canadian families more than transitioning to cleaner alternatives. The debate also touched on how Canada should respond to the escalating trade tensions with the United States. Poilievre said he would immediately begin negotiations with Trump to end tariffs and strengthen Canada’s economic position by rolling back what he described as damaging Liberal economic policies. He proposed boosting natural resource development and cutting taxes to make the economy more resilient and competitive.
Carney took a different approach, advocating for strategic preparation against worst-case scenarios. He stressed the need for a robust economic plan, new trade partnerships, and a leadership style that commands respect on the global stage, particularly when dealing with Trump. Blanchet suggested that Canada should align with other countries facing similar trade pressures and work collectively to counter U.S. tariffs. He expressed confidence that Trump’s policies would ultimately harm the American economy, though not without collateral damage.
In a lighter moment, the leaders were asked about U.S. products they’ve stopped buying. Most took jabs at Carney for a recent comment suggesting he doesn’t do his grocery shopping. Carney said he avoids American alcohol, while others claimed to skip U.S. strawberries. Singh lightheartedly declared he does his shopping and enjoys fruit, and Poilievre added humor by expressing his preference. The debate set the tone for a high-stakes election, highlighting not only divisions on domestic policy but also the shared anxiety over external forces shaping Canada’s future.
