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Business Leaders Endorse Poilievre Ahead of Federal Election
In a significant show of support for Pierre Poilievre, multiple leading figures from the business sector endorsed the Conservative Party leader as the optimal choice to navigate Canada’s economic challenges during the upcoming federal election. This endorsement comes amidst concerns regarding the country’s sluggish economic growth.
A group of over 30 notable executives, including Fairfax Financial’s CEO Prem Watsa, Canaccord Genuity’s CEO Dan Daviau, and former Scotiabank CEO Brian Porter, signed an open letter published in various Canadian newspapers, arguing that Poilievre’s policies are essential for revitalizing the nation’s economy.
In the letter, the executives pointed out the pressing issues facing Canada’s economy, stating, “Productivity has stalled. Economic growth has slowed. Our GDP per capita is shrinking.” They emphasized that despite these challenges, a recovery is possible and necessary for the country they cherish.
To reverse these trends, the letter outlined several recommendations. It called for the removal of productivity hindrances, advocating for streamlined permitting processes and the elimination of outdated regulations that inhibit investment and job production. Additionally, the signatories urged the government to adopt a more disciplined fiscal approach, lower taxes to enhance competitiveness, and further develop natural resources through infrastructure projects like pipelines and mining expansion.
This letter represents one of the most robust endorsements Poilievre has garnered from the corporate realm, further solidified by signatures from influential figures such as Edward Sonshine, founder of RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust, and Peter Gilgan, CEO of Mattamy Homes.
Campaign Dynamics and Responses
As the election campaign approaches its conclusion on April 28, Poilievre’s primary opponent, Liberal candidate Mark Carney, has focused on his extensive experience as the leader of central banks in both Canada and England. Carney claims his background equips him to handle the nation’s economic difficulties, particularly in light of tariff challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
While the Liberals have yet to issue a formal response to the business leaders’ letter, Conservative representatives have interpreted the endorsement as validation of their economic platform. Sam Lilly, a Conservative spokesman, described Poilievre’s Canada First Economic Action Plan as a robust strategy for fostering industry and ensuring robust wages for Canadians.
Poilievre’s campaign recently proposed a plan aimed at reducing bureaucratic obstacles, including a “two-for-one” regulatory approach that would eliminate two regulations for every new one introduced, alongside mandated cost-saving measures in government spending.
In contrast, Carney’s strategy includes initiatives to enhance interprovincial trade, fund infrastructure linking extraction sites, and initiate worker training programs to better align job opportunities with market needs.
Notably, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh critiqued both Poilievre and Carney, suggesting that their policies favor the wealthiest while neglecting essential public services such as healthcare and housing. Singh voiced that many Canadians are working harder but falling behind, with stagnant wages and diminishing access to key services.
The backdrop of this endorsement underscores a pivotal moment in Canadian politics, as economic concerns take center stage in voters’ minds leading up to election day.
Source
globalnews.ca