Conservative Party president John Walsh's letter to caucus stated that only Members of Parliament (MPs) would vote for the interim leader, but Conservative Senators pointed out that the party constitution states that the entire parliamentary caucus votes. The caucus allowed Senators to vote, declining to adopt the provisions of the Reform Act that would have only allowed MPs to vote.
The caucus chose Rona Ambrose, MP for Sturgeon River—Parkland, Alberta and former Minister of Health, as interim leader at its first meeting on November 5, 2015 in a vote by preferential ballot. Ambrose, as the interim leader, will also serve as Leader of Her Majesty's Official Opposition in the Parliament of Canada until a permanent leader is chosen. She defeated Candice Bergen, Diane Finley, Mike Lake, Rob Nicholson, Erin O'Toole, and the joint ticket of Denis Lebel and Michelle Rempel in the caucus vote.
Under the party's constitution, Ambrose, as the interim leader, may not run for the permanent position.
Following Harper's resignation, debate emerged within the Conservative Party regarding the timing of the leadership election. Some members of the party's national council called for a leadership convention as early as May 2016 according to Maclean's magazine. However, interim leader Rona Ambrose has said there is a consensus among the party's caucus that the leadership election shouldn't be rushed and should be held sometime in 2017. In a December 2015 interview, Ambrose said the party would take its time allowing all members, including those not already involved in politics, to build a strong candidacy. "If we take a little extra time, that will mean we'll have a better leadership race."
The Conservative Party's Leadership Election Organizing Committee (LEOC) met at Toronto's Albany Club January 15–17, 2016 to discuss the process for the Party to elect its next leader. Among its decisions, LEOC selected May 27, 2017 for Conservative Party members to elect their next leader.
Only party members in good standing at 5pm Eastern Time on March 28, 2017 will be allowed to vote. The fee for a party membership was raised to $25 from $15, an increase that was reversed on April 23, 2016 after criticisms that the move was "elitist". Membership fees can only be paid via personal cheque or credit card. Cash payments will not be permitted. This new requirement is intended to prevent the election being dominated by new members, and to prevent anyone other than the individual member, such as a candidate's campaign, from signing up scores of members and paying the membership fees in cash out of campaign funds.
Voting will be on a one member one vote basis using a ranked ballot; however votes will be calculated so that each electoral district have equal weight with each electoral district allocated 100 points. Candidates will be assigned a point total based on his or her percentage of the vote in each electoral district. To win, a candidate must receive at least 16,901 points which would be a majority.
To register, candidates must:
be members of the party for at least six months (can be waived),
submit nomination forms signed by 300 party members from at least 30 electoral districts in at least seven different provinces and territories,
pay a $50,000 non-refundable entrance fee, half of which must be paid when filing nomination with the other half due by the close of nominations on February 24, 2017.
pay an additional $50,000 compliance deposit, by December 31, 2016 or when filing nomination for those who register in 2017, which is refundable provided the candidate complies with campaign rules.
and fill out a 40-page questionnaire that asks for:
references,
criminal background and credit checks,
agreement with basic party principles,
a list of social media accounts,
questions about possible controversial positions the candidate has taken in the past, and
questions about affiliations and personal associations and behaviour that may be problematic.
A party committee reviews the candidate's nomination form and may disqualify a potential candidate. Candidates are allowed to spend a maximum of $5 million on their campaigns.
October 19, 2015 – Federal election results in defeat of Conservative government. As Harper spoke to supporters in Calgary, making no reference to his future, a statement was released by the party announcing Harper's resignation as party leader and his request that an interim leader be chosen to lead the party in parliament until a leadership election can be held.
November 4, 2015 – Harper resigns as prime minister; Liberal government led by Justin Trudeau sworn in.
November 5, 2015 – Conservative caucus held its first meeting since the 2015 federal election and chose former health minister Rona Ambrose interim leader of the party.
December 4–5, 2015 – National Council meets, 20-member Leadership Election Organization Committee appointed, including seven members of the National Council and MP Diane Finley, all of whom have pledged to be neutral during the leadership campaign; Dan Nowlan is appointed the committee's chair.
January 15–17, 2016 – The Leadership Election Organization Committee meets at the Albany Club in Toronto to decide on the date of the leadership vote, the deadline for candidates to be nominated, campaign spending limits, the entrance fee for candidates and the appeals process for any disputes.
May 26–28, 2016 – Conservative Party national policy convention, held at the Vancouver Convention Centre, voted on policy resolutions and elected the party president and other officials. An attempt to change the party constitution to allow the party's interim leader, Rona Ambrose, to seek the permanent leadership is defeated.
September 12, 2016 – Former Foreign Minister Peter MacKay, who had been leading public opinion polls as the most popular potential leader, announces that he will not be a candidate for they party's leadership.
November 2, 2016 – Only those who have registered as candidates by this date, including having paid at least $25,000 of the candidate deposit, are permitted to participate in the first leadership debate, to be held the following week. 12 candidates meet this deadline.
November 9, 2016 – First of five official leadership debates organized by the LEOC, held in Saskatoon.
November 13, 2016 – Leadership debate organized by the Carleton Conservative Association, held in Greely, Ontario
December 6, 2016 – Second official debate held in Moncton in English and French.
December 31, 2016 – Deadline for candidates who filed their nomination papers in 2016 to have paid $50,000 compliance fee.
January 17, 2017, 6:30 pm – Third official debate held in Quebec City in French at the Quebec Convention Centre. The themes covered will be government and taxes.
February 4, 2017 – Leadership debate orgranized by the Progressive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia was held in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The first debate presumed front runner Kevin O'Leary participated in.
February 24, 2017, 5pm ET (UTC-5) – Nomination period closes; deadline for candidates to pay any remaining balance of entrance fee.
February 24, 2017 – Leadership debate organized by the Manning Centre for Building Democracy, held in Ottawa, Ontario
February 28, 2017 – Fourth official debate, held in Edmonton at the Maclab Theatre in English and French.
March 28, 2017, 5pm ET (UTC-5) – Members who have joined by this date are eligible to vote.
May 27, 2017 – Leadership election is held.
Registered candidates
Candidates who have paid their entrance fee and compliance deposit and filed their nomination papers:
Chris Alexander
Background
Chris Alexander, 48, is the former Minister of Citizenship and Immigration (2013–2015), and the former MP for Ajax—Pickering, Ontario (2011–2015). Prior to entering politics, he was the Canadian Ambassador to Afghanistan from 2003 to 2005.
Date campaign announced: October 12, 2016
Supporters
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His campaign is expected to focus on foreign policy and the economy. He believes that immigration is the key to "economic growth." Is proposing to increase immigration to 400,000 a year including 40,000 refugees and calling for doubling defence spending and "for an accelerated push to settle all outstanding land claims and to sign treaties with First Nations communities that would empower them to govern themselves". Was prominent in the Conservative government's handling of the Syrian refugee crisis and in the government's promise during the 2015 election to create a telephone tip line to report so-called "barbaric cultural practices." As minister, he was criticized over delays in meeting the government's commitment to resettle Syrian refugees.
Background
Maxime Bernier, 54, is the MP for Beauce, Quebec (2006–present) and was the Shadow Minister of Innovation (2015—2016). He served in the Harper government as Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism (2011–2015), Minister of Foreign Affairs (2007–2008), and Minister of Industry (2006–2007), Bernier is considered a libertarian and advocate of limited government. This has caused him to be nicknamed "Mad Max", the "Bloc-Buster", or the "Albertan from Quebec" by his Ottawa colleagues. Prior to entering federal politics in 2006 Bernier, a lawyer by training, was vice-president of the Standard Life of Canada Insurance company, MEI, and manager of corporate and international relations at the Commission des valeurs mobilières du Québec.
Date candidacy announced: April 7, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (6) Dan Albas (Central Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola), Alupa Clarke (Beauport—Limoilou), Tony Clement (Parry Sound—Muskoka), Jacques Gourde (Lévis—Lotbinière), Tom Kmiec (Calgary Shepard), Alex Nuttall (Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte)
Senators: (7) Lynn Beyak (Ontario), Nicole Eaton (Ontario), Stephen Greene (Nova Scotia), Leo Housakos (Quebec; Speaker of the Senate, 2015), Ghislain Maltais (Quebec) Larry Smith (Quebec) Claude Carignan (Quebec; Leader of the Opposition in the Senate of Canada)
Provincial politicians: (2) Derek Fildebrandt (Alberta MLA for Strathmore-Brooks), Laura Ross (Saskatchewan MLA for Regina Rochdale)
Municipal politicians: (2) Fred Bamber (MD of Bonnyville councillor for Ward 6), Matt Whitman (Halifax City Councillor for Hammonds Plains-St. Margarets; Deputy Mayor of Halifax, 2015-2016)
Former MPs: (9) Russ Hiebert (South Surrey—White Rock—Cloverdale, 2004-2015), Jay Hill (Prince George—Peace River, 1993-2010), Ryan Leef (Yukon, 2011-2015), Gary Lunn (Saanich—Gulf Islands, 1997-2011), Pat Perkins (Whitby—Oshawa, 2014-2015), John Reynolds (West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast; Interim Canadian Alliance leader and Acting Leader of the Opposition 2001–2002), Brian Storseth (Westlock—St. Paul, 2006-2015), Lawrence Toet (Elmwood—Transcona, 2011-2015) Gerry Weiner (Pierrefonds—Dollard, 1984-1993)
Former Senators: (1) Michel Rivard (Quebec, 2009-2016)
Former provincial politicians: (2) Heather Forsyth (Alberta MLA for Calgary-Fish Creek, 1993-2015; Wildrose Party Leader, 2014-2015), John Hastings (Ontario MPP for Etobicoke North, 1995-2003)
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals: (9) David Asper (Winnipeg Philanthropist; Former Winnipeg Blue Bombers Chair), Jeff Callaway (President of the Wildrose Party), Marc Emery (Marijuana Legalization Activist), Babu Nagalingam (Senior Advisor to the Ontario Leader of the Opposition), Gerry Nichols (Former Vice President of the National Citizens Coalition), George Richardson (President of the Canadian Alliance, 2002), Tony Oliver (former vice president of the Progressive Conservative Party of Newfoundland and Labrador), Michael Wekerle (Dragons' Den Panelist, 2014–present), Mark Whiffen (President of the Progressive Conservative Party of Newfoundland and Labrador, 2014-2016)
Organizations: (3) Generation Screwed, Memorial University Campus Conservatives, Young Progressive Conservatives of Newfoundland and Labrador
Media: (3) Éric Duhaime (Journal de Montréal Columnist; former Canadian Alliance advisor), Nathan Giede (Prince George Citizen Columnist), Lauren Southern (Rebel Media Commentator)
Other information
Calls for ending federal transfer payments to the provinces for health care by replacing it with a health transfer point, encourage provinces to move away from a single-payer healthcare system to a two-tier healthcare system, balance the budget within two years then reduce the number of tax brackets from five to three being paid by "boutique" tax credits.
Supports the legalization/decriminalization of marijuana. Wants to end "corporate welfare" (business subsidies). Calls for smaller government, lower taxes, and paying down the national debt. Opposes bailout to any corporation. Allow MPs to vote their conscience. Supports the cancellation of the Saudi Arms deal. Opposes a "Canadian values" test on the basis that it is logistically ineffective to fight terrorism. Protect Canadian Manufacturing by keeping tariffs with other countries for five years after every trade deal, then within those years create a favorable condition for manufacturers before removing the tariffs. Abolish the Canadian Radio-television Telecommunications Commission, privatizing Canada Post Corporation, ending supply management on dairy and poultry, and expanding free trade. Supports abolishing capital gains taxes, and lowering corporate taxes to 10% by getting rid of corporate welfare. Opposes a national tax on carbon emissions. Wants to get rid of omnibus bills and supports building pipeline.
Advocates reversing the Liberal government's $150 million budget increase to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation as well as forbidding the CBC from selling commercial time, which provides $250 million in funding, and require it instead to rely on corporate sponsorship and fundraising as the PBS and NPR in the United States does. Would also stop the CBC from "unfairly" competing with the private sector by changing its mandate so as to end it from hosting sports programming, music streaming, game shows, or other programming that competes with commercial fare and refocus the CBC's mandate so that it concentrates primarily on public affairs. He also wants to "break" Quebec's maple syrup cartel and wants to allow foreign owership for the airline industry. He wants to "streamline the process for hiring specialized workers abroad". He wants to put "slightly" more emphasis on economic immigration and "slightly reduce" family reunification class immigration. He would accept “slightly” fewer, with more privately sponsored and fewer government sponsored. Bernier believes that the Indian Act should be "abolished, or changed."
Background
Steven Blaney, 51, was the Shadow Minister of Public Works and Government Services (2015–2016) for the Conservative Opposition, and is the former Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (2013–2015), Minister of Veterans Affairs (2011–2013). He is the MP for Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis, Quebec (2015–present) and Lévis—Bellechasse, Quebec (2006-2015).
Date campaign announced: October 23, 2016
Supporters
MPs:
Senators: (2) Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu (Quebec), Jean-Guy Dagenais (Quebec)
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Supports banning the wearing of the niqab while voting, taking the citizenship oath, or by federal public servants, even if such a ban would require invoking the notwithstanding clause of the Constitution in order to override the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Also advocates testing would be citizens on their "their understanding and appreciation of Canada's core principles." He wants to "beef up" screening. The number of immigrants he wants to bring in will be based upon labour-market studies.
Background
Michael Chong, 45, is the MP for Wellington—Halton Hills, Ontario (2004–present) and was the Deputy Shadow Minister of the Environment (2015-2016). He was Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Youth (2006) and Minister of Sport (2006). Chong resigned from the Harper cabinet in 2006 to protest the government's recognition of the Québécois as a nation within Canada. As a backbench MP he advocated democratic reforms in Parliament to limit the power of the Prime Minister's Office and party leaders over their caucuses and individual MPs and introduced the Reform Act to give caucuses the option of the power to remove party leaders, elect caucus chairs, and expel or readmit MPs, and elect interim leaders. He was a member of the Progressive Conservative Party at the time of the merger.
Date campaign announced: May 16, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (2) Peter Kent (Thornhill), David Tilson (Dufferin—Caledon)
Senators: (1) Victor Oh (Ontario)
Provincial politicians: (1) Ted Arnott (Ontario MPP for Wellington—Halton Hills)
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (4) Chungsen Leung (Willowdale, 2011–2015), John McDermid (Brampton, 1979-1993), Mike Wallace (Burlington, 2006–2015), Terence Young (Oakville, 2008-2015)
Former Senators: (1) Erminie Cohen (New Brunswick, 1993–2001)
Former provincial politicians: (3) Ted Chudleigh (Ontario MPP for Halton, 1995-2014), Gary Mar (Alberta MLA for Calgary Nose Creek, 1993–2004, and Calgary-Mackay, 2004–2007), Réjean Savoie (New Brunswick MLA for Miramichi Bay, 1993-2003)
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals: (8) Yaroslav Baran (Conservative Party of Canada Communications Director, 2004-2008), Ches Crosbie (St. John's lawyer), Susan Elliott (PC Party National Director, 1999-2002), Alex Girard-Lord (New Brunswick PC Youth Association President), Harry Near (PC National Campaign Director for the 1984 and 1988 federal elections), Geoff Norquay (Director of Communications to Stephen Harper, 2004-2005), William Stairs (Director of Communications, Prime Minister's Office 2006), Peter White (Principal Secretary, Prime Minister's Office 1988-1989)
Organizations: (1) Greenpac
Media: (3) Andrew Coyne (National Post Columnist), Michael Harris (iPolitics Columnist), Chris Selley (National Post Columnist)
Other information
Advocates modernizing democratic institutions and strengthening the independence of MPs and parliamentary committees. Supports lower taxes, and carbon pricing to combat climate change. Climate change is the "centrepiece" of his leadership campaign. The carbon pricing would be revenue neutral. Believes that Canada needs an evidence-based immigration policy that would put economic interests at the forefront. He has criticized face-to-face values screening as a divisive tactic.
Background
Kellie Leitch, 46, is the MP for Simcoe—Grey, Ontario (2011–present), and was the Shadow Minister of Health (2015–2016). In the Harper cabinet she was Minister of Labour and the Status of Women (2013–2015). She is an orthopaedic pediatric surgeon at SickKids Hospital and an associate professor at the University of Toronto.
Date campaign announced: April 6, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (3) Ben Lobb (Huron—Bruce), Peter Van Loan (York—Simcoe), David Yurdiga (Fort McMurray—Cold Lake)
Senators:
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (1) Ronald Atkey (St. Paul's, 1972–1974, 1979–1980)
Former Senators: (2) Consiglio Di Nino (Ontario, 1990–2012), Michael Meighen (Ontario, 1990–2012; Chancellor of McGill University; grandson of Prime Minister Arthur Meighen)
Former provincial politicians:
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals: (4) Richard Ciano (Ontario PC Party President, 2012–2016), Zack Goldford (Ontario PC Youth Association President, 2015-2016), Stanley Hartt (Chief of Staff, Prime Minister's Office 1989-1990), Nick Kouvalis (Campaign Strategist/ Pollster/ Organizer for Conservative Party of Canada, BC Liberals; Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Toronto, 2010–2011, 2014-2015), Paul Fromm (director, Canada First Immigration Reform Committee)
Organizations: (2) Council of European Canadians, although Leitch's campaign has rejected this endorsement. Generation Screwed
Media:
Withdrawn Endorsements: (3) Steve Kent (Newfoundland and Labrador MHA for Mount Pearl North), Hugh Segal (Senator for Ontario, 2005-2014) Andrew Pringle (Toronto Police Services Board Chair)
Other information
Opposes the legalization/decriminalization of marijuana. Opposes a national tax on carbon emissions. Has suggested screening prospective immigrants using a "Canadian values" test. Described Donald J. Trump's win of the American presidency as an "exciting message and one that we need delivered in Canada as well." Urged by hundreds of health professionals to honour her medical oath and work against Canada's controversial asbestos industry, remained silent on the issue. Calls for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation to be defunded and dismantled with the exception of the provision of emergency services to rural and remote parts of Canada.
Background
Pierre Lemieux, 53, is the former MP for Glengarry—Prescott—Russell, Ontario (2006–2015). In the Harper government he was the Parliamentary Secretary for Official Languages (2007–2008), Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture (2008–2015), and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs (2015).
Date campaign announced: August 22, 2016
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Organizations: (3) Campaign Life Coalition, Generation Screwed, Right Now
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Running as a social conservative, highlighting his opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage. Lemieux doesn't believe that screening will make Canada safer.
Background
Deepak Obhrai, 66, is the MP for Calgary Forest Lawn, Alberta (2015–present), and represented Calgary East, Alberta (1997–2015), was Shadow Minister of International Development (2015–2016), and is the Dean of the Conservative Caucus. In the Harper government he was the Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs (2006–2015).
Date campaign announced: July 14, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (1) Martin Shields (Bow River)
Senators:
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (3) Corneliu Chisu (Pickering—Scarborough East, 2011–2015), Joe Daniel (Don Valley East, 2011–2015), Julian Fantino (Vaughan, 2010–2015)
Former Senators:
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Other prominent individuals:
Organizations: (1) Generation Screwed
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Other information
Advocates a more inclusive party. Had promised to withdraw in favour of Peter MacKay if he were to run. He wants to increase the number of privately sponsored refugees and cut the number of government-sponsored refugees.
Kevin O'Leary, 62, is a businessman, investor, journalist, writer, financial commentator and television personality.
Date campaign announced: January 18, 2017
Supporters
MPs: (1) Guy Lauzon (Stormont—Dundas—South Glengarry)
Senators:
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (2) Ken Hughes (Macleod, 1988-1993), Tim Uppal (Edmonton—Sherwood Park, 2008-2015)
Former Senators: (1) Marjory LeBreton (Ontario, 1993-2015)
Former provincial politicians: (1) Mike Harris (Ontario MPP for Nipissing, 1981-2002; Premier of Ontario, 1995-2002)
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals: (4) Francesco Aquilini (businessman, investor, and philanthropist), Andrew Boddington (Ontario PC Party Executive Director, 2012-2014), Sara MacIntyre (Press Secretary, Prime Minister's Office 2009-2012), W. Brett Wilson (Dragons' Den Panelist, 2008-2011)
Organizations: (1) Generation Screwed
Media: Christopher Wilson (Rebel Media Commentator)
Other information
O'Leary confirmed that he would embrace LGBTQI people, legalize marijuana and defend reproductive rights.
Background
Erin O'Toole, 44, is the MP for Durham, Ontario (2012–present) and was Shadow Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (2015–2016) for the Conservative Party in Opposition. Previously, he served as Minister of Veterans Affairs (2015).
Date campaign announced: October 14, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (21) Mel Arnold (North Okanagan—Shuswap), John Brassard (Barrie—Innisfil), James Bezan (Selkirk—Interlake—Eastman), Blaine Calkins (Red Deer-Lacombe),Colin Carrie (Oshawa), Michael Cooper (St. Albert—Edmonton), Kerry Diotte (Edmonton Griesbach), Todd Doherty (Cariboo—Prince George), Ed Fast (Abbotsford), Randy Hoback (Prince Albert), Robert Kitchen (Souris—Moose Mountain), Ron Liepert (Calgary Signal Hill), Larry Maguire (Brandon-Souris), Kelly McCauley (Edmonton West), Cathy McLeod (Kamloops—Thompson—Cariboo), Blake Richards (Banff—Airdrie), Jamie Schmale (Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock), Robert Sopuck (Dauphin—Swan River—Neepawa), Karen Vecchio (Elgin—Middlesex—London), Dianne Watts (South Surrey—White Rock), Kevin Waugh (Saskatoon—Grasswood)
Senators:
Provincial politicians: (12) Jamie Baillie (Nova Scotia MLA for Cumberland South; PC Party of Nova Scotia Leader, 2010–Present, Leader of the Opposition, 2013–Present), Lorne Coe (Ontario MPP for Whitby—Oshawa), Vic Fedeli (Ontario MPP for Nipissing), Michael Harris (Ontario MPP for Kitchener—Conestoga), Brian Macdonald (New Brunswick MLA for Fredericton West-Hanwell), Norm Miller (Ontario MPP for Parry Sound—Muskoka), Rick Nicholls (Chatham-Kent—Essex), Randy Pettapiece (Ontario MPP for Perth—Wellington), Laurie Scott (Ontario MPP for Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock), Lisa Thompson (Ontario MPP for Huron—Bruce), Bill Walker (Ontario MPP for Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound), John Yakabuski (Ontario MPP for Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke)
Municipal politicians: (1) Jody Mitic (Ottawa City Councillor for Innes)
Former MPs: (7) Laurie Hawn (Edmonton Centre, 2006-2015), Ed Holder (London West, 2008-2015), Gerald Keddy (South Shore—St. Margaret's, 1997-2015), Wladyslaw Lizon (Mississauga East—Cooksville, 2011-2015), Ted Opitz (Etobicoke Centre, 2011-2015), Bernard Trottier (Etobicoke—Lakeshore, 2011-2015), David Wilks (Kootenay—Columbia, 2011-2015)
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians: (3) John Hamm (Nova Scotia MLA for Pictou Centre, 1993-2006; Premier of Nova Scotia, 1999-2006), John O'Toole (Ontario MPP for Durham, 1995–2014), Bill Saunderson (Ontario MPP for Eglinton, 1995-1999)
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals: (2) David Bertschi (Liberal Party of Canada Leadership Contestant, 2013), Dan Lindsay (College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba President; Conservative Party of Canada Leadership Contestant, 2017)
Organizations: (1) CANZUK International
Media:
Other information
O'Toole policies wants to give tax credits for youth underemployment and student debt. He wants to restructure temporary foreign worker and provincial nominee programs.
Background
Rick Peterson, 61, venture capitalist, principal Peterson Capital, former candidate for leadership of the British Columbia Conservative Party, party fundraiser.
Date campaign announced: October 18, 2016
Supporters
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Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (1) Bill Clarke (Vancouver Quadra, 1973-1984)
Former Senators:
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Other prominent individuals: (2) Brian Day (Canadian Medical Association President, 2006-2008), Mark Mullins (Former Fraser Institute Director)
Organizations: (1) Generation Screwed
Other information
Advocates eliminating corporate income taxes. Raising the GST to 9%. Supports boosting terrorist surveillance and enhance security screening for immigrants.
Background
Lisa Raitt, 48, is the MP for Milton, Ontario (2015–present), previously Halton, Ontario (2008–2015) and the former Shadow Minister of Finance (2015–2016), Minister of Transport (2013–2015), Minister of Labour (2010–2013), Minister of Natural Resources (2008–2010), President and CEO of the Toronto Port Authority (2002–2008). Stepped down from shadow cabinet on October 14, 2016, to prepare for leadership bid.
Date campaign announced: November 2, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (3) Dean Allison (Niagara West), Phil McColeman (Brantford—Brant), Bruce Stanton (Simcoe North)
Senators: (1) Judith Seidman (Quebec)
Provincial politicians: (3) Alfie MacLeod (Nova Scotia MLA for Sydney River-Mira-Louisbourg), Lisa MacLeod (Ontario MPP for Nepean—Carleton), Eddie Orrell (Nova Scotia MLA for Northside-Westmount)
Municipal politicians: (4) Cecil Clarke (Mayor of Cape Breton RM), Mike Cluett (Halton Regional Councillor for Milton South), Gordon Krantz (Mayor of Milton), Michel Plourde (Mayor of Danville)
Former MPs: (10) Scott Armstrong (Cumberland—Colchester—Musquodoboit Valley, 2009-2015), Keith Ashfield (Frederiction, 2008-2015), John Carmichael (Don Valley West, 2011-2015), Rob Clarke (Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, 2008-2015), Kerry-Lynne Findlay (Delta, 2011-2015), Robert Goguen (Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe, 2011-2015), Gary Goodyear (Cambridge, 2004-2015), Dick Harris (Cariboo—Prince George, 1993-2015), Ted Menzies (Macleod, 2004-2013), Darrel Stinson (Okanagan—Shuswap, 1993-2006)
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians: (4) Keith Bain (Nova Scotia MLA for Victoria-The Lakes, 2006-2013), Currie Dixon (Yukon MLA for Copperbelt North, 2011-2016), Phil Gillies (Ontario MPP for Brantford, 1981-1987), John Snobelen (Ontario MPP for Mississauga West, 1995-2003)
Former municipal politicians: (1) Case Ootes (Toronto City Councillor for Toronto—Danforth, 1998-2010; Deputy Mayor of Toronto, 1998-2003)
Other prominent individuals: (1) Kinsey Schurm (Ontario PC Youth Association President)
Organizations: (1) Generation Screwed
Media: (2) John Ivison (National Post Columnist), Rick Salutin (Toronto Star Columnist)
Other information
Opposes Leitch's proposal to screen immigrants for "anti-Canadian values". She will "introduce balanced budgets, repeal carbon pricing legislation and prioritize the development of Canada's natural resources."
Andrew Saxton
Background
Andrew Saxton, 52, is the former Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance (2013–2015), Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board and for Western Economic Diversification (2011–2013), MP for North Vancouver (2008–2015), former chief executive officer of King George Financial Corporation.
Date campaign announced: October 18, 2016
Supporters
MPs:
Senators:
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Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (1) John Duncan (Vancouver Island North, 1993-2006, 2008-2015)
Former Senators: (1) Noël Kinsella (New Brunswick, 1990-2014; Speaker of the Senate, 2006-2014)
Former provincial politicians:
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals:
Organizations: (1) Generation Screwed
Media: (1) David Holmes Black (Black Press Owner)
Other information
Saxton's campaign is an economic platform. He plans on lowering taxes and balancing the budget.
Andrew Scheer
Background
Andrew Scheer, 37, Opposition House Leader (2015–2016), MP for Regina—Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan (2004–present), Speaker of the House of Commons (2011–2015).
Date campaign announced: September 28, 2016
Supporters
MPs: (24) Ziad Aboultaif (Edmonton Manning), John Barlow (Foothills), Luc Berthold (Mégantic—L'Érable), Kelly Block (Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek), Sylvie Boucher (Beauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix), Jim Eglinski (Yellowhead), Ted Falk (Provencher), Garnett Genuis (Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan), Marilyn Gladu (Sarnia—Lambton), Matt Jeneroux (Edmonton Riverbend), Tom Lukiwski (Moose Jaw—Lake Centre—Lanigan), Pierre Paul-Hus (Charlesbourg—Haute-Saint-Charles), Alain Rayes (Richmond—Arthabaska), Scott Reid (Lanark—Frontenac—Kingston), Gerry Ritz (Battlefords—Lloydminster), Bob Saroya (Markham—Unionville), Kevin Sorenson (Battle River—Crowfoot), Mark Strahl (Chilliwack—Hope), Shannon Stubbs (Lakeland), Arnold Viersen (Peace River—Westlock), Cathay Wagantall (Yorkton—Melville), Mark Warawa (Langley—Aldergrove), Chris Warkentin (Grande Prairie—Mackenzie), Bob Zimmer (Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies)
Senators: (8) Denise Batters (Saskatchewan), Norman Doyle (Newfoundland and Labrador), Dennis Patterson (Nunavut), Don Plett (Manitoba), Carolyn Stewart-Olsen (New Brunswick), Scott Tannas (Alberta), David Tkachuk (Saskatchewan), David Wells (Newfoundland and Labrador)
Provincial politicians: (27) Wayne Anderson (Alberta MLA for Highwood), Steven Bonk (Saskatchewan MLA for Moosomin), Bill Boyd (Saskatchewan MLA for Kindersley), Fred Bradshaw (Saskatchewan MLA for Carrot River Valley), Greg Brkich (Saskatchewan MLA for Arm River), Jennifer Campeau (Saskatchewan MLA for Saskatoon Fairview), Jeff Carr (New Brunswick MLA for New Maryland-Sunbury), Lori Carr (Saskatchewan MLA for Estevan), Nathan Cooper (Alberta MLA for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills), Herb Cox (Saskatchewan MLA for The Battlefords), Dan D'Autremont (Saskatchewan MLA for Cannington), Terry Dennis (Saskatchewan MLA for Canora-Pelly), Glenn van Dijken (Alberta MLA for Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock), Larry Doke (Saskatchewan MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford), Jeremy Harrison (Saskatchewan MLA for Meadow Lake), Warren Kaeding (Saskatchewan MLA for Melville-Saltcoats), Greg Lawrence (Saskatchewan MLA for Moose Jaw Wakamow), Don MacIntyre (Alberta MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake), Hugh Nerlien (Saskatchewan MLA for Kelvington-Wadena), Greg Ottenbreit (Saskatchewan MLA for Yorkton), Kevin Phillips (Saskatchewan MLA for Melfort), Doug Steele (Saskatchewan MLA for Cypress Hills), Warren Steinley (Saskatchewan MLA for Regina Walsh Acres), Lyle Stewart (Saskatchewan MLA for Lumsden-Morse), Christine Tell (Saskatchewan MLA for Regina Wascana Plains), Carl Urquhart (New Brunswick MLA for Carleton-York), Randy Weekes (Saskatchewan MLA for Biggar-Sask Valley)
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (9) Garry Breitkreuz (Yorkton—Melville, 1993-2015), Paul Calandra (Oak Ridges—Markham, 2008-2015), Royal Galipeau (Ottawa—Orléans, 2006-2015), LaVar Payne (Medicine Hat, 2008-2015), Peter Penashue (Labrador, 2011-2013), Kyle Seeback (Brampton West, 2011-2015), Devinder Shory (Calgary Northeast, 2008-2015), Chuck Strahl (Chilliwack—Fraser Canyon, 1993-2011), Jeff Watson (Essex, 2004-2015)
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians: (1) Shayne Saskiw (Alberta MLA for Lac La Biche-St. Paul-Two Hills, 2012-2015)
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals:
Organizations: (2) Generation Screwed, Right Now
Media: (1) Stephen Taylor (Blogger, NewsHubNation)
Withdrawn Endorsements: (1) Kelly McCauley (MP for Edmonton West)
Other information
Running as an "unapologetic" Conservative who can unite all wings of the party. He is "committed" to lower taxes, fiscal responsibility, and "compassion". Scheer believes that there should be a "more robust screening process." Scheer is pro–life, but doesn't intend to bring any legislation on the topic. Scheer advocates for immigration based process, economic indicators, and "what our society needs."
Background
Brad Trost, 42, MP for Saskatoon—University, Saskatchewan (2015–present), had represented Saskatoon—Humboldt, Saskatchewan (2004-2015), and was appointed Official Opposition Critic for Canada-U.S. Relations (2015–2016) following the 2015 election. Prior to election, Trost worked as an exploration geophysicist (prospector) in natural resources extraction in the north. He was also an active participant in his family's mixed grain, oilseeds and beef cattle farm operation. In his first Parliament, he founded the Conservative Party Energy Caucus and pushed for the re-creation of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources. He has served on the Standing Committees on International Trade and on Industry, and was elected vice-chair of the Canada-U.S. Parliamentary Association.
Date campaign announced: August 16, 2016
Supporters
MPs:
Senators:
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (1) Leon Benoit (Vegreville—Wainwright, 1993-2015)
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians:
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals:
Organizations: (2) Campaign Life Coalition, Generation Screwed
Media:
Other information
Running as a social conservative, opposes a carbon tax, transgender bathrooms, tax increases generally, assisted suicide and abortion, deficit financing, and legalization of marijuana. Has been outspoken against abortion and against same-sex marriage and argued unsuccessfully at the 2016 Conservative policy convention to retain the party's definition of marriage as "the Union of one man and one woman". Advocates privatization of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
Background
Tony Clement, 56, is the MP for Parry Sound—Muskoka, Ontario (2006–present) and has been Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs (2015–2016), President of the Treasury Board (2011–2015), Minister of Industry (2008–2011), Minister of Health (2006–2008), and a 2004 leadership candidate, placing third. He was an MPP in the Ontario legislature (1995–2003) and a provincial cabinet minister (1997–2003) under Premiers Mike Harris and Ernie Eves. Clement also ran for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario in 2002, placing third.
Date campaign announced: July 12, 2016
Date withdrawn: October 12, 2016
Supporters
MPs:
Senators: (1) Leo Housakos (Quebec; Speaker of the Senate, 2015)
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs: (1) Brad Butt (Mississauga—Streetsville, 2011–2015)
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians: (1) Gary Mar (Alberta MLA for Calgary Nose Creek, 1993–2004, and Calgary-Mackay, 2004–2007)
Former municipal politicians: (1) Stephen Sparling (Halton Regional Councillor for Oakville, 1991-2000)
Other prominent individuals: (2) Sandra Buckler (Director of Communications, Prime Minister's Office 2006-2008), John Capobianco (FleishmanHillard National Lead)
Organizations:
Media:
Other information
Said he would bring in coherent environmental policies in the wake of the Paris climate change accord, end government subsidies to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Withdrew after he was unable to meet fundraising targets he'd set for his campaign.
Later endorsed Maxime Bernier.
Background
Daniel Lindsay, 60, president of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba, radiologist, has done five tours as a civilian medical specialist with the Canadian Armed Forces, including in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Date campaign announced: May 25, 2016
Date withdrawn: December 28, 2016
Supporters
MPs:
Senators: (1) Betty Unger (Alberta)
Provincial politicians:
Municipal politicians:
Former MPs:
Former Senators:
Former provincial politicians:
Former municipal politicians:
Other prominent individuals:
Organizations:
Media:
Other information
Withdrew after he was unable to fundraise enough money to meet December 31 deadline for paying the party the $50,000 leadership campaign compliance fee.
Later endorsed Erin O'Toole.
Background
Adrienne Snow, 49, Toronto-based communications consultant, former director of policy for National Foundation for Family Research and Education. Former executive director of Centre for the Study of Civic Renewal. Announced on August 23, 2016 that she intended to be a candidate but failed to register and announced in January that she was ending her campaign.
Date campaign announced: August 23, 2016
Date withdrawn: January 4, 2017
Rona Ambrose – Interim Leader of the CPC and Leader of the Official Opposition (2015–present), MP for Sturgeon River—Parkland (2015–present) and Edmonton—Spruce Grove, Alberta (2004–2015), Minister of Health (2013–2015), Minister of Public Works and Government Services (2010–2013), Minister of Labour (2008–2010), Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs (2007–2008), Minister of the Environment (2006–2007). Ambrose is barred from running for permanent leader due to her position as interim leader and has declined interest in the permanent position.
John Baird – MP for Ottawa West—Nepean, Ontario (2006–2015), Minister of Foreign Affairs (2011–2015), Leader of the Government in the House of Commons (2010–2011), Minister of the Environment (2007–2008, 2010–2011), Minister of Transport (2008–2010), President of the Treasury Board, (2006–2007), Ontario Progressive Conservative Party MPP (1995–2005) and provincial cabinet minister (1999–2003).
Candice Bergen – Opposition House Leader (2016–present), Shadow Minister of Natural Resources (2015–2016), State for Social Development (2013–2015), MP for Portage—Lisgar, Manitoba (2008–present).
Paul Calandra – Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister of Canada and for Intergovernmental Affairs (2013–2015), MP for Oak Ridges—Markham, Ontario (2008–2015)
Jean Charest – Premier of Quebec (2003–2012), Leader of the Quebec Liberal Party (1998–2012), Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada (1993–1998), Deputy Prime Minister of Canada (1993), Minister of the Environment (1991–1993), MP for Sherbrooke (1984–1998)
Christy Clark – Premier of British Columbia (2011–present), Leader of the B.C. Liberal Party (2011–present)
Gérard Deltell – Quebec lieutenant and Shadow Finance Minister (2016–present), Shadow Minister of Employment and Workforce Labour (2015–2016), MP for Louis-Saint-Laurent, Quebec (2015–present), Quebec MNA for Chauveau (2008–2015) and leader of the Action démocratique du Québec (2009–2012).
Ed Fast – Shadow Minister for the Environment (2015–present), MP for Abbotsford, British Columbia (2006–present), Minister of International Trade (2011–2015).
Doug Ford – former Toronto city councillor (2010-2014) and mayoral candidate (2014).
Jason Kenney – Chair of Shadow Cabinet Committee on Strategic Operations (2015-2016), MP for Calgary Midnapore, Alberta (2015–2016) and Calgary Southeast, Alberta (1997–2015), Minister of National Defence (2015), Minister for Multiculturalism (2013–2015), Minister of Employment and Social Development (2013–2015), Minister of Citizenship and Immigration (2008–2013)
Bernard Lord – Premier of New Brunswick (1999–2006), Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of New Brunswick (1997–2006)
Peter MacKay – MP for Central Nova, Nova Scotia (2004–2015) and Pictou—Antigonish—Guysborough, Nova Scotia (1997–2004), Minister of Justice and Attorney General (2013–2015), Minister of National Defence (2007–2013), Minister of Foreign Affairs (2006–2007), Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party (2003)
Caroline Mulroney Lapham – investment management executive, daughter of former prime minister Brian Mulroney.
Mark Mulroney – head of capital equity markets at the National Bank of Canada, son of former prime minister Brian Mulroney.
James Moore – MP for Port Moody—Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam, British Columbia (2000–2004) and Port Moody—Westwood—Port Coquitlam, British Columbia (2004–2015), Minister of Industry (2013–2015), Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages (2008–2013). Elected as a Canadian Alliance MP in 2000.
Michelle Rempel – Shadow Minister of Immigration (2015–present), MP for Calgary Nose Hill, Alberta (2015–present) and Calgary Centre-North, Alberta (2011–2015), Minister of Western Economic Diversification (2013–2015)
Brad Wall – Premier of Saskatchewan (2007–present), Leader of the Saskatchewan Party (2004–present).
Dianne Watts – Shadow Minister of Infrastructure & Communities (2015–present), MP for South Surrey—White Rock, British Columbia (2015–present), Mayor of Surrey (2004–2015)
The polls below were conducted before nominations for the leadership closed and therefore include potential candidates for the leadership race. Rona Ambrose, as interim leader, is ineligible to run for the permanent leadership unless there is a change to the party's constitution.
