Populism and the Canadian Federal Election

To understand the stakes of Canada’s next federal election, it’s helpful to analyze the dynamics between Justin Trudeau and Pierre Poilievre through the lens of populism, a concept vividly explored in Nadia Urbinati’s Political Theory of Populism

Populism is influenced by political settings and does not exist in a vacuum. A progressive platform emphasizing international cooperation, social programs, and inclusivity is embodied by Trudeau's leadership. Nonetheless, this strategy has drawn criticism for its emphasis on urban-centric policies and alleged bureaucratic inefficiencies. Pierre Poilievre, on the other hand, appeals to those who are fed up with inflation, economic stagnation, and a growing isolation from the ruling class. Urbinati’s work sheds light on how Poilievre’s rise taps into common populist strategies: he positions himself as a champion for "ordinary Canadians," rallying against what he calls "the gatekeepers" of Canada’s political and economic system. His pledges to lower taxes, disperse authority, and solve the affordability crisis are in line with populist ideas of elite deconstruction and empowerment.

This conflict becomes especially important in light of the impending election. Urbinati highlights how populist politicians frequently reduce political conversation to a "us vs. them" dichotomy, which has the potential to erode democratic discourse. This conflict can be seen in Poilievre's critique of Trudeau's policies as detrimental to "everyday Canadians," to which Trudeau responds by presenting his administration as an advocate for progressive principles and inclusivity. The text also reminds us of the risks populism can pose to long-term governance. Both leaders must handle pressing concerns like housing, healthcare, and climate change without further polarising the electorate as Canadian politics become more divisive. How this dynamic unfolds will shape not just the election, but Canada’s political trajectory for years to come.

Populism, at its core, is a political approach that emphasizes the divide between “the people” and “the elite,” often presenting itself as a voice for the ordinary citizen against a corrupt or disconnected establishment. Nadia Urbinati explains that populism simplifies complex political dynamics, portraying politics as a moral struggle between virtuous citizens and untrustworthy elites. While populism can take different forms globally, Timothy Kestler and Mathieu Latouche highlight how it often drifts towards authoritarianism when populist leaders centralize power under the guise of protecting the people's will. Similarly, Ronald Inglehart and Pippa Norris note that populist movements in Western democracies frequently emerge as a reaction against perceived threats to traditional values or economic stability.

For us in Canada, elements of populism appear in both the Conservative and Liberal parties, though in distinct ways. The Conservative Party has leaned into populist rhetoric to appeal to voters concerned about cultural identity, economic disenfranchisement, or government overreach. Their messaging often frames "the people" as hardworking Canadians neglected by liberal elites or urban-centred policies. On the other hand, the Liberal Party occasionally adopts inclusive populist tones, focusing on diversity and equity while casting opponents as out of touch with modern Canadian values. These differing interpretations of populism reflect broader trends seen globally, where populist strategies are tailored to local political landscapes and voter concerns.