Calgary — Former Conservative campaign manager Jenni Byrne says her party is evolving its approach to the Canada-U.S. relationship, and that shift is crucial as economic anxieties grip Canadians. The party, she argues, must directly link potential trade disruptions with the affordability crisis facing families.
Can Conservatives successfully balance concerns about U.S. trade policy with their core message of economic responsibility? Byrne believes they absolutely can, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a clear understanding of how international events impact everyday Canadians.
- Byrne stresses the importance of connecting trade issues with affordability for voters.
- She highlights emerging geopolitical threats as contributing factors to Canada’s economic challenges.
- The Conservative strategist believes diversifying trade, strengthening the military, and developing resources are key to improving Canada’s bargaining position.
- She advises Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative caucus when asked, remaining actively involved in party strategy.
“I think you absolutely can do both,” Byrne said in an exclusive interview. “I think it’s staying on top of things, being adaptable and seeing how that is actually going to affect Canadians’ day-to-day life.”
Byrne pointed to a confluence of factors—emerging geopolitical threats and a changing dynamic with Canada’s closest ally—all contributing to the affordability pressures felt across the country. She outlined several Conservative priorities, including trade diversification, military rebuilding, resource development, and pipeline construction, as ways to bolster Canada’s negotiating power.
At the Conservative convention in Calgary, former campaign manager Jenni Byrne told CBC News her party ‘absolutely can do both’ when it comes to focusing on U.S. issues and affordability challenges in Canada.
Byrne led the Conservative campaign in the 2025 federal election. While the party increased its seat count and garnered support, it failed to form government, despite holding a significant lead in pre-election polling. Party leader Pierre Poilievre also lost his initial Ottawa-area seat, subsequently winning a by-election to return to the House of Commons.
The 2025 campaign drew criticism for its handling of then-U.S. President Donald Trump’s rhetoric, particularly regarding tariffs. These threats coincided with the rise of Liberal Leader Mark Carney, who successfully framed the election around U.S. trade policies and their impact on Canadians. The Liberals ultimately capitalized on anxieties surrounding Trump’s protectionist stance.
Following the election results, and amid internal calls for a change in leadership, Steve Outhouse, a veteran Conservative organizer, was appointed to lead the next campaign.
Byrne expressed confidence in Outhouse’s abilities. “I think he’s going to do a great job,” she said. “I’ve known Steve for over 20 years. When I worked for Prime Minister Harper, and I did staffing at the start of our government, Steve was one of the first people I met with.”
Poilievre’s Strong Mandate
Byrne had stepped back from her consultancy firm during the campaign but now provides advice to Poilievre and the Conservative caucus when requested. “I advise Pierre and caucus and the party when I’m asked and anyone that knows me, I provide advice even when I’m not asked. So, I am never, I’m never too far away,” she said.
She has also recently participated in meetings of the party’s National Council, serving as Poilievre’s representative.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who made a critical prime-time speech to party delegates on Friday, drove home a message on affordability, the dignity of work and the need for government to allow people to run their own lives.
Byrne attended the Conservative convention in Calgary over the weekend, but downplayed any significant organizational role in the event or the campaign to secure a strong leadership review result for Poilievre. “I was a delegate and anything that people needed help with from, you know, delivering water to volunteers that needed it to or to helping volunteers around, that’s what I did,” she said.
However, she expressed enthusiasm about Poilievre’s 87.4 percent approval rating. “I’m absolutely thrilled by the results.… Everyone is going home very united, very excited, ready to take on the Liberals.”
Looking Ahead
Steve Outhouse, in interviews, has stated that Poilievre’s strong showing should quell any remaining questions about his leadership. “I don’t think there’s ever really an end to naysayers. But for right now, that’s a really clear mandate from our membership, and now we can focus on getting ready for the election,” he said.
Outhouse indicated that Poilievre will embark on a cross-country tour to expand the party’s voter base, with a particular emphasis on attracting younger voters and first-time voters.
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