The Paikin Podcast Everything Political: Are the Knives Out for Pierre Poilievre?
Oct 23, 2025
Join Martha Hall Findlay, a former MP and political commentator, and Tony Clement, a former federal cabinet minister, as they dissect the critical commentary on Pierre Poilievre's leadership within the Conservative Party. They debate the implications of Poilievre's recent allegations against the RCMP and its fallout, the potential influence of Stephen Harper on party dynamics, and the upcoming leadership review's significance. The discussion also veers into trade negotiations with the U.S., and differing strategies on achieving favorable deals for Canada.
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Soudas' Public Rebuke Shakes Conservatives
- Dimitri Soudas publicly accused Pierre Poilievre of dismantling a principled Conservative Party and warned against rhetoric calling for opponents to be jailed.
- The panel treated the column as consequential, sparking debate about party tone and leadership direction.
Keep Internal Disputes Private
- Tony Clement advised conservatives to avoid public intra-party fights because they give advantage to political opponents.
- He urged internal debate over airing divisions in national media to protect party unity and message focus.
Danger Of Rhetoric Against Institutions
- Debate centered on Poilievre's claim that the RCMP 'turned a blind eye' to Justin Trudeau and should have jailed him, which many viewed as dangerous rhetoric.
- Panelists said leaders must avoid undermining public trust in institutions even when criticizing government interference.