Poilievre faces growing caucus unease as Conservatives weigh leadership future

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 18, 2026

Photo Courtesy: CBC News

CANADA – Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is facing growing unease within his caucus, although party and caucus sources say there is currently no strong push to remove him as leader.

The concerns surfaced during the Conservatives’ caucus retreat in Penticton, British Columbia, where MPs discussed the party’s position as Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government gains political momentum.

Some Conservative MPs have reportedly become dissatisfied with Poilievre’s leadership, while the party has also faced setbacks from floor-crossings, resignations and weaker polling numbers over the past year.

Poilievre told his caucus that the Conservatives’ role as the Official Opposition is to hold the government accountable and put the national interest ahead of party considerations. He has also pressed the government to recall Parliament and provide more details about its handling of the trade dispute with the United States.

Despite the internal concerns, Conservative MP Michael Barrett pointed to Poilievre’s January leadership review, where he received 88 percent support from party members, as evidence of the grassroots’ backing.

Party sources also told CBC that replacing Poilievre now could further divide the Conservatives, particularly given his strong support among some members and the absence of a clear alternative leadership push.

For now, the debate within the party appears focused less on an immediate leadership change and more on how the Conservatives should respond to the changing political landscape and position themselves for the next election.