Bernier's PPC campaign focuses on cutting government spending

Maxime Bernier and the People's Party of Canada (PPC) have begun their official campaign in Saint-Georges, Quebec. Their main focus is to cut government spending and halt immigration. Bernier, a former Conservative MP, believes these measures are essential to protect Canada’s culture and economy. During the launch, Bernier described the PPC as the "real conservatives." He criticized the Conservative Party for being "intellectually and morally corrupt" since his departure in 2018. He laid out four key ideas for his campaign: pausing immigration, stopping "woke" policies, cutting government spending, and enhancing national security. Bernier stated that Canada needs significant changes. He plans to withdraw from international agreements like the Paris Accord and reduce foreign aid. Instead of sending money abroad, he wants to bring it back to Canada. He also mentioned cutting federal funding for the CBC, saying a bankrupt CBC would be acceptable in a capitalist system. The PPC leader attacked Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre for their views on carbon pricing and technology. He called carbon capture expensive and inefficient. Bernier also spoke against diversity and inclusion initiatives, claiming they contradict Western values and should be stopped. Sometimes, Bernier has faced criticism for his past comments. He has been accused of making xenophobic remarks and has a history of controversial statements. Despite this, he maintains that his party does not welcome extreme views. In the last federal election, the PPC received five percent of the national vote.