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Doug Ford Stands by Campaign Manager Kory Teneycke Amid Poilievre Controversy

2025-04-14

Author: Jacques

Ford Throws Support Behind Teneycke's Critique

In a bold move, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has stepped into the ring, defending his campaign manager, Kory Teneycke, against critiques of federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's election strategy. Ford believes the Conservatives would be enjoying a stronger position if Teneycke were at the helm.

On Monday, Ford expressed his confidence in Teneycke, noting that his expertise in campaign management has been key to several consecutive Conservative victories in Ontario. He lamented that Poilievre’s team squandered a nearly 25-point lead, leading Teneycke to label their campaign practices as 'malpractice'.

A Disastrous Campaign Under Fire

Teneycke didn't hold back, asserting in a recent podcast that the Poilievre campaign will be remembered as a colossal failure, given their inability to pivot effectively amidst rising concerns over U.S. tariffs under President Trump. His stern warning highlighted that this election could be a case study for future campaigns due to its stark mismanagement.

While Poilievre dismissed Teneycke’s comments as mere distractions from 'Liberals and lobbyists,' the stakes are undeniably high as the federal Conservative Party grapples with a shifting political landscape.

Polls Tighten as Carney Gains Momentum

Simultaneously, Liberal Leader Mark Carney has surged in the polls following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation, taking a lead over Poilievre. This changing tide has sent shockwaves through Conservative ranks, where the pressure is mounting to reshape their strategy quickly.

The race appears to be tightening, although Teneycke's insistence on aggressive campaign tactics is becoming increasingly urgent. His previous assertions that Poilievre could lose the federal election if he fails to address Canadian anxiety regarding U.S. tariffs ring especially true now.

Teneycke's Analysis: Poilievre’s Unlikability and the Trump Factor

In past comments, Teneycke has pointed out that Poilievre's 'basic unlikability' could be detrimental to his campaign. He warned that the leader's similarities to Trump, from rhetoric to campaign slogans like "Canada First," may hinder his appeal in a country wary of its southern neighbor.

Party Dynamics: Tensions Between Provincial and Federal Conservatives

Tensions between the provincial and federal Conservative parties have come into sharp focus. Pollster Nick Kouvalis indicated that there has been a lack of communication between Poilievre and Ford, which might have contributed to the distrust felt within party ranks. Furthermore, the federal Conservative Party's timing of political rallies appears to have undercut support during critical election periods for provincial counterparts.

As the federal election race heats up, the Conservative campaign faces an uphill battle. With criticism bubbling from all sides, the outcome remains uncertain as Canadians are poised to make a crucial decision about their leadership.