Party Leaders React to Blanchet’s ‘Artificial Country’ Remarks Ahead of Election Day

During the final weekend of campaigning before election day on April 28, federal party leaders reacted to comments from Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, who labeled Canada as an “artificial country.”

In an April 25 press conference held in Shawinigan, Que., Blanchet described Canada as an “artificial country with very little meaning.”

Liberal leader Mark Carney addressed Blanchet’s remarks while campaigning in King City, Ont., on April 26.

“I completely reject his comments,” Carney expressed. “I take immense pride in being Canadian. We have achieved remarkable things, thanks to those who came before us, to build this diverse, ambitious, and humble country.”

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called Blanchet’s statement “insulting and false.”

When asked about Blanchet’s comments during a campaign stop in London, Ont., NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh described them as “offensive.”

“We have Donald Trump attacking us. We don’t need internal attacks like that,” he remarked.

“We are proud of who we are and want to strengthen our country, and those kinds of attacks are unhelpful.”

On April 26, after a campaign stop, Blanchet was questioned about his prior remarks and said that labeling Canada an “artificial country” was not intended as an insult.

“It’s an observation that different regions of this country face unique issues, mostly catered to serve Ontario and marked by Ottawa’s tendency to centralize power rather than respect regional differences,” he explained.

Campaign Enters Home Stretch

During his speech on April 26, Carney emphasized concerns regarding U.S. tariffs and President Trump, asserting that Trump is attempting to “fundamentally alter” global trade and that his actions are “disrupting the global economy.”

Carney pledged that if elected, his party would combat U.S. tariffs, safeguard workers and businesses, and promote construction projects.

He mentioned intentions to accelerate housing development, invest in clean and conventional energy, and explore global trade opportunities.

Carney also expressed he would not “sit idly by,” waiting for the U.S. to engage in serious negotiations.

“When they are ready for a serious discussion, we’ll engage,” he stated.

At a rally in Delta, B.C., on the same day, Poilievre reiterated campaign promises, including continuing MPs’ work over the summer.

“We are launching a 100-day plan to enact three critical laws: the affordable food and housing act, the safe streets act, and the job recovery act. These must be enacted before the summer break,” he said.

He reaffirmed commitments to reduce income tax by 15 percent, eliminate the industrial carbon tax, cut foreign aid, and reduce the federal workforce.

“We will decrease the Liberal deficit by 70 percent to lower inflation and interest rates,” he stated.

Poilievre added that his party aims to expedite approval for more energy projects, which he claims will bolster Canada’s ability to deliver resources globally and enhance the value of the Canadian dollar.

“A stronger dollar translates to a more affordable life. By unlocking our resources, we are not only creating jobs but also empowering you financially,” he said.

Singh conducted a rally in London, Ont., on April 25, marking his second visit to the riding during the campaign. He urged attendees not to stress over tactical voting to prevent a Conservative victory.

“As we approach the final stretch of the campaign, I need to clarify a few points regarding strategic voting,” Singh began.

“I understand concerns about Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives. We share those concerns. However, here’s the good news: Pierre isn’t winning this election.”

He encouraged supporters to vote for the NDP to block a Liberal majority alongside a Conservative opposition, which he described as “the worst of Carney and the worst of Conservatives.”

Mathew Horwood contributed to this article.