Pierre Poilievre reflects on the past year with a wry observation: 2025 has been a “hell of a year.” It’s a statement laden with irony, considering the dramatic shifts since his last year-end interview, a time when predictions felt certain and futures seemed clearly defined.
A year ago, Poilievre confidently pledged swift action to defund the CBC should he be elected. That election didn’t materialize, and the political landscape has undergone a startling transformation. Now, he finds himself granting interviews *to* the very broadcaster he once vowed to dismantle.
The Conservative Party itself is experiencing a period of significant upheaval. Two Members of Parliament have defected, another has resigned, and whispers of further departures circulate – a potentially devastating scenario if more MPs were to join the Liberals and bolster Mark Carney’s position.
Despite the instability, Poilievre remains resolute, dismissing any suggestion he would step down as leader. He insists the decision rests solely with the party’s membership, not internal power brokers. “The welders, waitresses, plumbers, police officers, soldiers, and small businesspeople – *they* decide who the leader is,” he asserts, framing the issue as a battle between the grassroots and the establishment.
This stance is particularly noteworthy given Poilievre’s own ascent to leadership. In February 2022, he benefited from a similar internal challenge when a group of MPs orchestrated the removal of Erin O’Toole. Many of those involved in that maneuver were also instrumental in Poilievre’s subsequent campaign.
Currently, no organized effort exists to challenge his leadership, affording him a degree of security. However, the departures and potential for further defections demand attention. Poilievre must actively work to maintain unity within his caucus, especially with crucial events looming on the horizon.
The House of Commons returns from its Christmas break on January 26th, just days before the Conservative convention in Calgary and a scheduled leadership review. This proximity necessitates a focused effort to reassure and value his MPs, making them feel integral to the party’s direction.
Poilievre has previously acknowledged the importance of caucus input, but translating those words into tangible influence is now paramount. A message of open dialogue rings hollow when the party’s momentum has waned and MPs feel sidelined.
In truth, Poilievre faces two simultaneous leadership reviews. The formal vote in Calgary, where he is expected to receive strong support, and a continuous, informal assessment by his own MPs – a consequence of the party adopting the Reform Act.
His message for the party members in Calgary is clear: highlight past successes, emphasize leadership on key issues like carbon taxes and inflation, and project confidence in future victory. “We will win the next election to deliver for them,” he promises.
But a separate, more nuanced message is required for the Conservative caucus. The team’s unity and motivation have eroded, and many are unwilling to passively observe what they perceive as a one-man show. A shift in approach is essential.
Effective leadership demands caucus management – a time-consuming but vital skill. Past leaders like Brian Mulroney and Doug Ford prioritized consistent communication and actively addressed the concerns of their members. Poilievre must embrace similar tactics.
He needs to demonstrate a collaborative spirit, showcasing a team capable of governing, rather than solely relying on his own prominence. Voters need to envision a government-in-waiting, not a personality-driven spectacle.
While some might dismiss the possibility of an upcoming election and a Conservative victory, the past year serves as a potent reminder of political unpredictability. As Pierre Poilievre knows all too well, the future remains unwritten, and anything is possible.
