Canadian Political Figures

• A summary of the lives, careers, and political positions of prominent Canadian political figures

Yves-François Blanchet (Bloc Québécois)

• Born in Drummondville, Quebec, in April 1958.
• Before federal politics, he was a Quebec cabinet minister, journalist, and communications consultant.
• Became leader of the Bloc Québécois in 2019.
• Advocates for Quebec's independence and defends its culture and language.
• Quote: "Le Québec, c'est plus qu'une province, c'est une nation." (Quebec is more than a province, it is a nation.)
• Quote: "We are here to defend the interests of Quebecers. That is our only reason for being."
• Was a radio and television host in Quebec’s media scene.
• Once performed as a bass player in a rock band that toured Quebec.

Jagmeet Singh (NDP)

• Born in Scarborough, Ontario, in January 1979.
• The first South Asian to lead a major Canadian political party.
• Served as an Ontario MPP before becoming federal NDP leader in 2017.
• Advocates for affordable housing, universal healthcare, and climate justice.
• Quote: "Love is stronger than hate."
• Quote: "No matter what your background, where you come from, your identity, you belong here."
• Quote: "We are going to build a better future. A future that is fair, just, and full of opportunity."
• Is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
• Known for his stylish fashion choices, including custom suits and colorful turbans.
• Gained praise for confronting a racist individual in 2018.

Pierre Poilievre (Conservative Party)

• Born in Calgary, Alberta, on June 3, 1979.
• Elected as a Member of Parliament for Nepean-Carleton (Ottawa area) in 2004.
• Served as a cabinet minister in the Harper government.
• Became leader of the Conservative Party in 2022.
• Advocates for reducing taxes, tackling inflation, and fiscal responsibility.
• Quote: "The government doesn't create jobs. The private sector does."
• Quote: "We need a government that understands that Canadians are struggling with the cost of living."
• Quote: "The people should be the masters of the government, not the other way around."
• Was a competitive chess player in childhood.
• Is an avid hockey fan and supports the Ottawa Senators.

Elizabeth May (Green Party)

• Born in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, on June 9, 1954; moved to Canada in 1973.
• Holds a degree in English Literature and studied environmental law.
• Became leader of the Green Party in 2006.
• The only Green MP elected to the House of Commons since 2011.
• Advocates for climate change action and environmental sustainability.
• Quote: "The environment is where we all meet; where we all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share."
• Quote: "We are on the edge of a precipice. If we do not act now, we are doomed."
• Quote: "The climate crisis is the issue of our time."
• Worked with the Sierra Club of Canada and the World Wildlife Fund.
• Has a black belt in karate.

Justin Trudeau (Liberal Party)

• Born in Ottawa, Ontario, on December 25, 1971.
• The eldest son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.
• Worked as a teacher, public speaker, and advocate before politics.
• Became the Liberal leader in 2013 and Prime Minister in 2015, re-elected in 2019 and 2021.
• Known for progressive stances on gender equality, climate change, and Indigenous reconciliation.
• Quote: "A Canadian is someone who is proud of the country, and proud to be inclusive, and proud of our diversity."
• Quote: "Diversity is Canada's strength."
• Quote: "We are all connected. The world is a place of incredible possibility, and it’s ours to shape."
• Is an accomplished public speaker.
• Worked as a bouncer and snowboarding instructor.
• Is an avid boxer and participated in a charity match with Senator Patrick Brazeau in 2012.