Canadian Opposition Leader Poilievre Wins Seat, Sets Stage for Tariff Clash with Carney

Pierre Poilievre, the head of Canada’s Conservative Party, won a by-election on August 18, 2025, taking 80.4% of the vote in Alberta’s Battle River-Crowfoot, a reliably Conservative area.

This victory brings Poilievre back to Parliament after a surprising loss in his long-held Ottawa seat during April’s federal election. The win, made possible by the previous MP stepping down, sets Poilievre up to challenge Prime Minister Mark Carney when Parliament resumes on September 15.

Poilievre campaigned hard, slamming the Liberal government for its handling of U.S. relations and growing budget deficits. At a victory rally, he said, “Deficits are soaring, inflation’s rising, and we’re losing ground.” He’s been vocal about Carney’s approach to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canada, which have led to Canada hitting back with its own.

• Pierre Poilievre Wins Alberta By-Election, Returns to Parliament to Challenge Carney
• Poilievre’s Comeback Sets Stage for Tariff Showdown with PM Mark Carney
• Canadian Opposition Leader Poilievre Secures Seat Amid Rising Tensions with U.S. Tariffs

Carney, who took over as Liberal leader in March, guided his party to a strong minority government in April, riding a wave of anti-American sentiment sparked by Trump’s tariff threats and talk of annexation. Recent polls show the Liberals leading with 44% support, while the Conservatives trail at 33%, according to Nanos Research. Carney’s shift to the political center has made it tough for Poilievre to stand out, says pollster Nik Nanos.

Poilievre’s return comes at a crucial time, with a party leadership review looming in January. His win in Battle River-Crowfoot was solid but narrower than the previous MP’s, which might raise eyebrows among Conservatives. The by-election also saw an unusual twist: the Longest Ballot Committee, pushing for electoral reform, fielded 203 candidates, leading to write-in ballots.

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Political watchers say Poilievre needs to show he’s learned from his April defeat to take on Carney effectively. The Liberals’ minority government is holding steady with support from smaller parties, but Poilievre’s focus on affordability, crime, and U.S. relations is sure to heat up debates in Parliament.