As Canada inches closer to its next federal election, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre finds himself navigating a complex political landscape shaped by both domestic concerns and external influences. One of the most significant external forces is the looming presence of Donald Trump, whose potential return to the U.S. presidency in 2025 is casting a long shadow over North American politics. Facing this reality, Poilievre has increasingly embraced a nationalist message, wrapping himself in the Canadian flag in an attempt to solidify his appeal to voters. But is this strategy a calculated move to distance himself from Trump-style populism, or is it a way to harness the same anti-establishment energy that fueled Trump’s rise?
Poilievre’s Nationalist Pivot
Since assuming leadership of the Conservative Party in 2022, Poilievre has positioned himself as a champion of the “common people” against what he describes as an out-of-touch elite. His rhetoric on issues like inflation, housing affordability, and government overreach has resonated with many Canadians frustrated by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. However, with Trump poised for a political comeback south of the border, Poilievre now faces a difficult balancing act: how to energize conservative voters without being tarred with the same brush as the former U.S. president.
In response, Poilievre has increasingly turned to nationalism as a core theme of his campaign. By emphasizing Canadian sovereignty, national identity, and economic independence, he is attempting to create a brand of conservatism that is distinct from Trumpism while still tapping into voter discontent. His speeches frequently invoke the imagery of “bringing home” Canadian industry, securing borders, and prioritizing Canadian workers. He has also made symbolic gestures, such as wearing a Canadian flag pin at every public event and frequently referencing Canada’s history of resilience.
This nationalist messaging is particularly evident in Poilievre’s attacks on foreign interference in Canadian politics. He has strongly criticized China’s alleged meddling in Canadian elections, called for tougher policies on immigration, and accused the Trudeau government of being too weak in defending national interests. By doing so, he positions himself as a leader who will put Canada first—an approach that appeals to both traditional conservatives and working-class voters who feel left behind.
The Trump Factor: A Double-Edged Sword
Poilievre’s nationalist pivot is, in part, an effort to insulate himself from accusations that he is simply a Canadian version of Trump. While he shares some similarities with the former U.S. president—such as his combative approach to the media, his disdain for elites, and his populist economic rhetoric—Poilievre has been careful to avoid outright association with Trumpism.
Unlike Trump, Poilievre does not openly embrace conspiracy theories or engage in election denialism. He also distances himself from the more extreme elements of the right-wing movement in Canada, including the convoy protests that disrupted Ottawa in early 2022. While he has expressed sympathy for those who opposed vaccine mandates, he has avoided the kind of incendiary rhetoric that characterized Trump’s presidency.
At the same time, Poilievre risks alienating voters who see nationalism as a dog whistle for more divisive politics. Canada’s political landscape is different from the U.S., with a more moderate conservative base and a higher degree of public support for social programs and immigration. If Poilievre leans too heavily into nationalist rhetoric, he could push away centrist voters who might otherwise be open to an alternative to Trudeau’s Liberals.
Economic Nationalism as a Campaign Strategy
One of the key areas where Poilievre has sought to distinguish himself is economic nationalism. He frequently criticizes Trudeau for allowing too much foreign investment in Canada’s housing market, driving up costs for ordinary Canadians. He has also called for policies to “bring back” manufacturing jobs, arguing that Canada has become too dependent on global supply chains.
This economic nationalism aligns with concerns many Canadians have about the country’s economic future. The rising cost of living, stagnant wages, and fears about foreign ownership of key industries have created fertile ground for Poilievre’s message. By positioning himself as a defender of Canadian workers, he hopes to win over voters who might not traditionally support the Conservative Party.
However, this approach also comes with risks. Canada is deeply integrated into the global economy, and policies that prioritize domestic industries at the expense of international trade could have unintended consequences. Moreover, Poilievre’s attacks on foreign influence could be seen as pandering to anti-immigrant sentiment, an accusation that could hurt him in urban and multicultural areas.
The Trudeau-Poilievre Battle: A Fight for Canada’s Identity
As Poilievre wraps himself in the Canadian flag, Trudeau and the Liberals have sought to paint him as a dangerous figure who threatens the country’s inclusive values. Trudeau has repeatedly warned against the rise of “far-right populism” and has attempted to tie Poilievre to the global movement that brought Trump to power.
The next federal election is shaping up to be a battle over Canada’s identity. Will voters embrace Poilievre’s vision of economic nationalism and sovereignty, or will they reject it as a veiled form of Trump-style populism? With Trump looming large on the world stage, the answer could have significant implications not just for Canada, but for the broader international political landscape.
Poilievre’s strategy is clear: he wants to be seen as a patriotic leader who puts Canada first, without falling into the traps that doomed Trump’s presidency. Whether he can walk that fine line will determine his political future—and the direction of Canada itself.
