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It’s been a bruising week for Pierre Poilievre. The Conservative leadership crisis has intensified after two MPs abruptly left the party, raising doubts about his control and direction ahead of January’s convention. Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont defected to the Liberals, while Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux announced an early retirement. The twin exits overshadowed Poilievre’s attacks on Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first budget, shifting headlines toward internal unrest.
Two senior Tories told Global News they fear the departures expose a growing “malaise” inside the party. “Many in caucus wonder if Pierre can really win,” one source said. Another agreed, calling the situation “a test of faith in his leadership.”
Caucus unrest and election fatigue
Some Conservative MPs told reporters they had planned to run again in 2025 expecting to form government. Those assumptions came when polls placed the party 25 points ahead of the Liberals. Now, after April’s election defeat, enthusiasm for more years in opposition is fading. If more MPs decide not to run, Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative leadership crisis could deepen, further complicating his efforts to rebuild momentum.
While most party figures have publicly supported Poilievre since April, critics such as Kory Teneycke and Dimitri Soudas have voiced frustration. They argue Poilievre united the party to defeat Justin Trudeau, but his mission has shifted under the Carney government.
Defections and denials
Chris d’Entremont, known for his moderate “Red Tory” views, told Politico he was exploring options before joining the Liberals. He later hinted that more Conservatives might share concerns about Poilievre’s approach. Hours later, Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux resigned, citing family reasons. Rumors suggested he met with Carney before stepping down, but he denied being pressured. “I had a great conversation with Pierre Poilievre,” Jeneroux wrote, wishing his leader well.
Party insiders admit the timing is “unhelpful.” One strategist said, “The soap opera dominates headlines, but it won’t last long.” Still, others warned that if Carney attracts more Conservatives, Poilievre’s position could weaken further.
A test of stability
Despite the turmoil, Poilievre faces no immediate challengers. However, prolonged Liberal dominance could spark leadership debates within the party.
For now, the Conservatives hope to steady themselves — but many insiders admit this week revealed deep cracks in morale and confidence.
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