Canada's Election Heats Up: Poilievre's Rise, Migrant Crossings, and Tariff Tensions

Pierre Poilievre was once the clear frontrunner in Canada’s federal election, but things have changed fast.

After Prime Minister Trudeau stepped down and a new Liberal leader took over, Poilievre’s massive lead vanished.

Now, polls suggest the Liberals could win a majority.

Still, Poilievre’s message of affordability and national pride continues to resonate, especially in working-class areas.

He’s known for his scrappy style, anti-tax stance, and promises to 'put Canadians first.' But critics warn his

populist tone and ties to controversial diaspora groups could backfire.

With the U.S.

ending protected status for Venezuelans, many are now heading north—some legally, others through illegal crossings.

Canadian immigration consultants report a rise in Venezuelans seeking asylum, often unaware they might qualify for legal immigration.

Some are even waiting 14 days after crossing illegally to file refugee claims.

The RCMP is ramping up border patrols, including boat surveillance on the Great Lakes, as warmer weather makes

crossings easier.

A Trump official mistakenly said Canada would face a 10% tariff, causing panic before the White House clarified

it was an error.

While Canada is spared—for now—Trump’s unpredictable trade moves have Canadian leaders on edge.

PM Mark Carney called the tariff pause a 'welcome reprieve,' but warned Canada must strengthen ties with other

trade partners.

Meanwhile, Poilievre slammed Carney for failing to protect Canadian interests, and NDP’s Jagmeet Singh said Canadians are tired

of Trump’s 'tariff chaos.' Punjabis have long been a political force in Canada, but now Gujaratis are stepping

up.

Four Gujarati-origin candidates are running in the April 28 election, including Jayesh Brahmbhatt and Sunjiv Raval.

With over 100,000 Gujaratis in Canada, their political influence is growing.

Experts say this marks a new chapter in Indian diaspora representation, following the rise of Punjabi leaders like

Jagmeet Singh.

Some Indo-Canadians, especially Hindu-Canadians, are backing Poilievre, citing safety concerns and frustration with Trudeau’s handling of India relations.

But critics warn of foreign influence, pointing to past ties with BJP-linked groups.

Poilievre’s team insists these are legal donations from patriotic Canadians.

The debate highlights tensions over diaspora politics, foreign interference, and Canada’s strained ties with India after the Nijjar

assassination allegations.