Poilievre Stresses Unity Amid Former Reform Leader’s Suggestion of Western Separation Following Liberal Win

April 3, 2025 TruthUSA

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed his support for Canadian unity in response to comments made by former Reform Party leader Preston Manning, who suggested that a Liberal victory could lead to Western secession.

“We need to bring all Canadians together in a spirit of common ground,” Poilievre stated during a campaign event in Kingston, Ont., on April 3. “What we need is a new Conservative government that will unite Canadians.”

Poilievre was addressing an opinion piece written by Manning in The Globe and Mail on April 2, where Manning expressed concerns that a fourth term for the Liberal Party could harm national unity.

Manning warned that Westerners are increasingly considering secession due to the Liberal government’s handling of national issues and failure to address Western Canadian concerns.

Referring to the current absence of a Reform Party to redirect populist energy, Manning emphasized the need to address the growing support for Western secession.

Former Reform Party leader Preston Manning at a conference in Ottawa on Feb. 9, 2018. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press) — Former Reform Party leader Preston Manning at a conference in Ottawa on Feb. 9, 2018. Justin Tang/The Canadian Press

Commenting on Manning’s op-ed, Poilievre focused on the Liberals’ track record and outlined his government’s plans to address past issues.

“Let’s unite our nation, because after the lost Liberal decade of blocking resource jobs, driving half a trillion dollars out of our economy to the U.S., taxing away our workers, and selling out our country, we can’t give the Liberals a fourth term in power,” Poilievre remarked. The Liberals, on the other hand, claim that Poilievre’s team lacks the experience and plan to protect the economy, and that Carney would strengthen Canada’s economy within the G7.

‘National Unity Crisis’

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith recently raised concerns about a potential national unity crisis if her province’s specific demands are not met by the next prime minister, including the removal of climate policies.

The Alberta government has contested several federal policies, arguing jurisdictional overreach and taking legal action against certain measures. The federal government, however, asserts its authority to address matters of national importance.

Smith indicated that if Alberta’s demands are not addressed, the province may consider consulting Albertans on its future steps.

A group of Albertans plans to seek U.S. support for the province’s independence through a delegation to Washington, with the aim of holding a referendum later this year.

Manning highlighted the current focus on Western secession in Alberta and Saskatchewan, noting its potential spread to other regions depending on organization and leadership.

He proposed hosting a “Canada West Constitutional Conference” after the federal election, emphasizing collaboration with Ottawa under a new government or peaceful secession planning under a Liberal victory.

British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed disappointment with Manning’s op-ed, emphasizing the importance of Canadian unity in the face of growing patriotism.

“I just can’t fathom that mindset,” Eby said at a press conference. “In this moment where we’re all coming together, to try to rip the country apart, drive divisions. We need to stick together and be successful as Canadians.”

Meanwhile, Smith has proposed collaborating with Quebec to strengthen provincial autonomy and counter federal overreach in provincial matters.

“I see an opportunity before us, as the democratically elected leaders of Alberta and Quebec, to chart a path toward a new era in Canadian federalism,” Smith stated in a letter to Quebec Premier François Legault.

In response to calls for Alberta’s separation, Smith emphasized her love for Canada but stressed the need for the country to prioritize Alberta’s interests.

“It’s not right now,” she concluded.

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