Pierre Poilievre Outlines Economic Plan at Conservative Caucus Retreat

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre convened a caucus retreat in Penticton, British Columbia, to unify his party and outline an economic action plan ahead of the House of Commons' fall session. Poilievre proposed eliminating taxes on fuel, home building, and capital gains for investors to counter U.S. tariffs, claiming the party identified $150 billion in budget savings. His plan includes extending the federal gas tax break, canceling the Alto high-speed rail project, and repealing the B.C. coast tanker ban.

Poilievre and Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney for a lack of transparency regarding negotiations to make Canada an associate member of the European Union. While Carney's office described the move as a proposal for a stronger alliance, Poilievre warned against adopting EU taxes, laws, or immigration rules. He further accused Carney of abandoning trade talks with the United States in August.

The retreat comes as the Conservatives face significant internal and external pressure. The party trails the Liberals by 14 points in polling and has lost five House of Commons seats through resignations and defections. Poilievre also faces a looming Alberta secession referendum and internal friction, including public calls from some members for a softer approach toward the United States during the current trade war.