As It Happens Want in-depth Canadian politics? Try ‘The House’
Aug 23, 2025
Jason Kenney, former Alberta Premier and Harper-era cabinet minister, shares his insights on the Conservative Party's current challenges. He discusses Pierre Poilievre's recent by-election victory and the party's struggle to connect with voters after consecutive electoral losses. Kenney highlights the need for strategic communication to engage diverse demographics, particularly women. The conversation also touches on the importance of adapting to shifting political landscapes and the internal dynamics within the party as they navigate a path back to government.
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High Floor, Low Ceiling Problem
- The Conservatives have a stable floor but struggle to raise their ceiling enough to win in a two-party contest.
- Leaders have alternated between protecting the floor and chasing the ceiling, with mixed electoral results.
Consolidate The 'Poliev' Coalition
- Build and maintain the new coalition by reaching voters previously inaccessible to Conservatives.
- Focus on issues like housing and affordability to retain younger, diverse supporters.
A New Conservative Coalition
- Poilievre's coalition is younger, more working-class, and more ethnically diverse than past Conservative coalitions.
- That mix could be the future base for broader conservative success if it can be kept together.