Letters: Poor election performance by federal NDP hardly surprising

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Personally, I wasn’t surprised to see the Liberals retain power, nor was I shocked that the NDP leader lost his seat. There has long been a clear disconnect between the NDP’s policy priorities and the broader concerns of Canadians, particularly in key regions.

Canada’s political climate today feels darker and more polarized than in recent memory. The rise of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is notable — not for his compelling vision, but because his political brand has been built largely on relentless opposition rather than substantive solutions.

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He has succeeded in convincing many that Justin Trudeau is the root of every conceivable problem, offering little that is constructive or unifying.

His hardline rhetoric, frequent targeting of public servants and alienating language around immigrants could prove costly —  especially in a country with a deeply rooted centrist and multicultural identity.

The recent move by an Alberta MP to vacate his seat to allow Poilievre to run in a byelection raises legitimate concerns.

Rather than a bold display of leadership, it feels more like a calculated manouevre — strategic, perhaps, but also tinged with desperation. It reflects a growing trend in Conservative politics that prioritizes short-term optics over long-term vision.

Many Canadians are growing weary of the Donald Trump-style political playbook.

If Poilievre remains the face of the Conservative Party, this could ultimately benefit the Liberals. Even Nova Scotia’s premier recently remarked that federal Conservatives often do more to repel voters than to attract them — a telling indictment from within the broader conservative political community.

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In contrast, Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney has emerged as a refreshing and stabilizing voice. He presents himself as a leader who listens, engages thoughtfully, and considers multiple perspectives. At a time when many Canadians are looking for clarity, competence and civility, Carney’s approach resonates.

His background in economics and international affairs only adds to his credibility — especially as the country navigates complex global and domestic challenges.

Alberta and Saskatchewan, in particular, stand out for their continued and near-uniform support of the Conservative Party. These two ‘have’ provinces have remained firmly entrenched in partisan alignment.

It’s worth remembering how quickly the NDP’s equalization lawsuit was dropped after former Conservative prime minister’s Stephen Harper’s election — an example of political promises fading once votes are secured.

Voters in these provinces might do well to look beyond party loyalty and critically assess which party, or which leader, genuinely represents their long-term interests.

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A more balanced and diverse political landscape would not only serve Alberta and Saskatchewan better — it would strengthen the country as a whole. Canada is at a crossroads, and the choices made now will shape its political culture for years to come.

Ted Jaleta, Regina

Jaleta is a former provincial NDP candidate and current Regina Board of Education trustee.

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