In a stunning twist, the governing Liberals look ready to win a fourth straight term. Earlier this year, they were trailing badly behind the Conservatives. But now, election watchers say President Donald Trump’s threats toward Canada have turned the tide.
"It looks like there will be a Liberal government, which seems to be what the polls point to, and it would be a very big surprise if the Conservatives won," Angus Reid, founder and chair of the Angus Reid Institute said.
Trump weighed in on Canada's election Monday morning. On Truth Social, he urged Canadians to choose a leader who would massively cut taxes and boost the military. He added that Canadian industries would "QUADRUPLE in size" if Canada became the 51st U.S. state.
"Good luck to the Great people of Canada. Elect the man who has the strength and wisdom to cut your taxes in half, increase your military power, for free, to the highest level in the World, have your Car, Steel, Aluminum, Lumber, Energy, and all other businesses, QUADRUPLE in size, WITH ZERO TARIFFS OR TAXES, if Canada becomes the cherished 51st. State of the United States of America," Trump posted.
Back in December, the Conservatives were riding high. An Angus Reid Institute poll showed them with 45% support. The Liberals were floundering at just 11%.
But everything changed fast. A new poll released Saturday had the Liberals ahead at 44%. They now hold a four-point lead over the Conservatives at 40%.
Election experts say Trump’s aggressive remarks stirred nationalistic feelings. That wave seems to have carried the Liberals back into contention. Many voters are choosing to rally around the current government.
The final results are still pending, but momentum clearly shifted. What looked like a major Conservative win now seems like another Liberal victory. Trump's comments may have made all the difference.