July 30, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was met with cheers and applause as he took the stage Tuesday evening in Camrose, where hundreds of Albertans gathered for a two-and-a-half-hour political debate under sunny skies.
Hosted by the Camrose and District Chamber of Commerce, the candidates’ forum featured 10 contenders vying to represent Battle River—Crowfoot in the upcoming Aug. 18 federal byelection.
“My mission here is to give national leadership to the issues that are of local importance,” Poilievre told the sold-out crowd.
The eastern Alberta riding is considered a Conservative stronghold, with former MP Damien Kurek securing over 82 per cent of the vote in April. Kurek stepped down to allow Poilievre — who lost his Ottawa seat in Carleton — an opportunity to return to the House of Commons this fall.
Supporters of Poilievre gathered outside before the debate, waving signs bearing his name. Inside the venue, however, signage was put away to maintain neutrality.
The forum ran on a strict schedule, with the moderator enforcing time limits by cutting microphones when necessary. Candidates fielded questions submitted by the public on topics such as the economy, health care privatization, electoral reform, and immigration.
Though the tone was largely respectful, some candidates took aim at Poilievre’s decision to run in a riding where he doesn’t reside, suggesting it’s a move to advance his political career.
Liberal candidate Darcy Spady drew laughs from the crowd — and even Poilievre himself — when he opened with: “I’m from Three Hills, and I don’t want to be prime minister.”
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