Pierre Poilievre tells Quebecers why he rubs them the wrong way.

It might not be the right way to do so.

The Conservative leader explains his style in a freshly released series of videos.

Dressed in a black suit, white shirt, and black tie, seated behind a desk in what feels like an AI-generated set, Pierre Poilievre is unapologetically defiant about his approach. Speaking directly to the camera with his signature smirk - and in fluent French that his Liberal opponent will soon have to contend with in debates - he delivers these lines:

“Some people think my style is too direct, too blunt. I wonder—should we be cute and docile when negotiating tariffs with Donald Trump? Let’s take back control and put Canada first.”

“Some say my style rubs them the wrong way. You know what rubs me the wrong way? Being in a position of weakness against the United States because of the Carney-Trudeau Liberals. They’ve added 100,000 bureaucrats, overtaxed our small businesses, blocked the development of our natural resources, and doubled the national debt. A weak economy threatens our sovereignty. That’s what bothers me. Let’s take back control and put Canada first.”

My Take:

Poilievre has chosen to make no apologies in Quebec for his aggressive, take-no-prisoner style—a decision that is likely wise. It’s so ingrained in his public persona (one the party previously tried to soften by having his wife highlight his qualities as a nice guy, husband, and father) that any significant shift might come off as disingenuous.

However, Quebecers’ issue with Poilievre might not lie solely in his combative style. Known for their “franc-parlé” - i.e. outspokenness in a culture of directness and passionate engagement - Quebecers might be expected to appreciate a fiery temperament. In other regions, though, such intensity can be viewed as undermining the decorum many Canadians expect in both political and business arenas.

There’s a certain “je ne sais quoi” about Pierre Poilievre that might explain his struggle to truly connect with most Quebecers. It’s a subtle quality that is difficult to pinpoint and even harder to address.

Despite his linguistic competence and direct style, Poilievre faces skepticism when his actions are seen as mimicking local norms rather than embodying a genuine commitment to Quebec’s distinct cultural and political realities. This perception of being a calculated outsider can backfire, especially in a region that values deep, authentic engagement.

In Quebec, authenticity and a nuanced understanding of local issues often matter more than polished language skills. Voters tend to trust those who, despite occasional linguistic missteps, show a genuine grasp of Quebec’s culture, history, and challenges. Sincerity resonates strongly - as exemplified by the legacy of figures like the late Jack Layton - because it signals a willingness to engage with the community on its own terms.

Mon style :15

Ce qui me dérange? :30