Conservative Leader Poilievre Wins Alberta By-Election Amid Party Uncertainty

Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada's Conservative Party, returned to Parliament by winning a by-election in the safe Tory riding of Battle River-Crowfoot after losing his own seat in Ottawa during the April federal election. Despite this victory, his leadership remains under scrutiny due to persistently high unfavorability ratings, particularly among women and younger voters, and his inability to gain ground against Liberal leader Mark Carney. Poilievre's win was aided by the resignation of Conservative MP Damien Kurek, who vacated the seat to allow Poilievre's return. The April election loss raised questions about his future as party leader, but he retains the support of caucus members and will face a leadership review in January. Canadian voters are increasingly concerned about U.S. relations and President Donald Trump's return to power, an area where Liberals are perceived as better equipped than Poilievre's Conservatives. Poilievre's campaign strategy focused on affordability and crime rather than addressing trade war anxieties, a decision defended by his campaign manager despite the political risks.