On-Site Report from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s Edmonton Rally

【CMHnews post】On-Site report by Lynn Wang

As a reporter, I attended the "Canada First Rally" held in Edmonton last night. Due to the large number of registrations, the venue was moved to a large warehouse outside the city. As the event start time drew closer, groups of supporters began parking and walking to the venue. The sight was truly striking – I saw a young boy holding a white cane, assisted by his mother; a young woman dancing energetically before the event began; children riding on their fathers’ shoulders, singing the national anthem alongside elderly people in their 90s; and families with dogs, all walking hand in hand, smiling and united. Thousands of people from various ethnic backgrounds and age groups gathered, united in their support for their future leader, showing the deep concern that Canadians have for their nation's future.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s Edmonton Rally

Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper made a rare appearance at the rally, publicly endorsing Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre for Prime Minister, stating that Poilievre has the "political experience" necessary for the role. Harper’s appearance undoubtedly added weight to the event, as he joined Poilievre on stage and delivered a nearly 10-minute speech. In his remarks, Harper emphasized that Poilievre is the best candidate to lead Canada toward a "better, stronger, and more united future."

Poilievre gave a passionate speech at the rally, calling on everyone to fight for a stronger Canada. He discussed how encouraging workers to earn more would help support families and local businesses, particularly in difficult economic times. "This will ensure that every dollar stays in the hands of those who earned it, not in the hands of the politicians who tax it," he said, deeply moving the audience. He also promised tax cuts for Canadian-made products, especially Canadian-made cars, which received enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

Poilievre did not shy away from criticizing the current government, especially its carbon tax. "The Liberals told us that the entire planet would be set on fire if we didn't pay a 61-cent-per-liter carbon tax," he said, also criticizing the Liberal Party for removing the carbon tax 28 days before the election, calling it an attempt to confuse voters.

He also promised to eliminate capital gains taxes for citizens who reinvest in Canada, stating, "When you reinvest your profits in Canada, you're bringing it home." This statement sparked another round of enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

By 9 p.m., the event concluded under light rain. As the crowd dispersed, more than 6,000 private vehicles left the venue in an orderly fashion. In the misty night, a police officer waved a baton to direct traffic, and under the red glow of brake lights, there was not a single honk to be heard. Despite the rain, the energy of the rally remained strong. This was not just a political rally, but a vivid demonstration of democratic participation and civil society.

The rally showed the deep engagement of Canadians in political life. Regardless of ethnicity, age, or background, the voices and choices of the people were united in determining the future of their country. Poilievre's words and speech inspired hope and enthusiasm, while Harper's support further strengthened this sense of unity.

While Poilievre and Mark Carney have each presented different visions for the future, the election landscape remains uncertain. As support for the NDP continues to slide, voters are about to decide who they believe can lead Canada into the future. Regardless of who wins in the end, last night's rally demonstrated the warmth of Canadian families and the spirit of democracy, reflecting the determination and strength of Canadians striving for a better future.