Minister Duclos Criticizes Liberals’ Lack of Preparation for Upcoming Federal Election

Public Services Minister Jean-Yves Duclos admitted in an interview this week that Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have not adequately prepared for the upcoming federal election, avoiding questions about the prime minister’s future.

In his office in Gatineau on Wednesday, Duclos emphasized the need for the party to better communicate the distinctions between potential Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and the continuation of the Liberal government.

According to Duclos, pre-campaign activities and efforts to differentiate the Liberals from the Conservatives must be intensified, especially in Quebec where he serves as Trudeau’s lieutenant.

As the focal point for Quebec’s 78 ridings in the impending federal election, Duclos acknowledged the critical need for enhanced campaign preparations following recent byelection losses for the Liberals in LaSalle-Émard-Verdun and Toronto-St. Paul’s.

Since being appointed Quebec lieutenant after the loss in Montreal to the Bloc Québécois, Duclos has been instrumental in ramping up efforts to bolster the party’s readiness for the campaign.

Reflecting on the past year, Duclos admitted that the government’s failure to establish a comprehensive pre-election strategy was a valid criticism from the national caucus.

While acknowledging the government’s focus on numerous pressing issues such as the housing crisis, Duclos indicated progress in preparations for the upcoming election since November, including the appointment of key campaign personnel and the presentation of the party’s plan to MPs.

Addressing the challenge posed by the recent election of Donald Trump in the U.S., Duclos stressed the need for energy and contrast-building efforts to face the upcoming campaign against the Conservatives head-on.

When pressed for further clarification regarding election readiness, Duclos emphasized the urgency of moving quickly to overcome the challenges ahead and adequately prepare for the campaign.

Regarding Trudeau’s leadership into the next election, Duclos remained non-committal, emphasizing that decisions are made based on what is best for Canada rather than solely on individual leaders.

As the party grapples with internal tensions following Freeland’s resignation, Duclos highlighted the need for unity and collaboration to navigate the current crisis and continue working towards building a better country for all Canadians.