Canadian Election: Party Leaders Face Off in French Debate

Canadian Election: Party Leaders Face Off in French Debate
Above: Canada's federal party leaders attend the French-language leaders' debate in Montreal on April 16, 2025. Image copyright: Sean Kilpatrick/Contributor/Canadian Press/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The Spin

Liberal Party narrative

Carney entered the French-language debate as the frontrunner—and chief target—but emerged unscathed. While not flawless, he kept his composure, deflected attacks, and avoided major stumbles. Carney's steady performance reinforced his image as a serious, competent leader focused on standing up to Trump's America and steering Canada through uncertain times.

Conservative Party narrative

After years of Liberal drift, Poilievre delivered a confident, composed, and detailed performance in the French debate, looking and sounding notably prime ministerial. He spoke directly to voters, stood firm on pipelines, and challenged the status quo. While Carney survived, Poilievre stood out as the night's strongest leader, ready to lead and restore Canada's direction.

New Democratic Party narrative

Singh delivered a passionate and energetic performance in the French debate, commanding the facts and landing sharp critiques of Liberal and Conservative records. With humor, grit, and clear convictions, he stood up for working Canadians, and showed he's the only leader fighting for fairness, health care, and real change voters can believe in.

Bloc Québécois Party narrative

Blanchet dominated the debate with confidence, clarity, and mastery. While the other leaders got caught up in unrealistic promises and dubious numbers, he stood out as the only credible defender of Quebec's interests. Against Carney or Poilievre, the Bloc remains the best safeguard for Quebec.

Metaculus Prediction



The Controversies


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