The federal Conservative Party is working to mend relationships with provincial leaders following public tensions with the Progressive Conservative premiers of Ontario and Nova Scotia last year. Sources reveal that Pierre Poilievre’s new campaign manager, Steve Outhouse, initiated contact with both Tim Houston and Doug Ford’s offices in December to move past the period of public criticisms.
Described as a “priority,” the calls aimed to emphasize Poilievre’s team’s interest in establishing a positive relationship with the provincial parties and collaborating effectively. Outhouse, who commenced his role on December 1, was viewed as a skilled mediator due to his existing connections within Houston and Ford’s offices.
Insiders familiar with the outreach effort, who preferred to remain anonymous due to confidentiality, disclosed that all parties involved are eager to progress positively. Outhouse expressed his belief that unifying Conservatives nationwide is crucial for success in the upcoming federal election, emphasizing the importance of collaboration within the conservative movement.
Hailing from Nova Scotia, Outhouse is set to attend the provincial Progressive Conservative annual general meeting in February and has engaged with various provincial PC and Conservative teams across the country. With experience in managing campaigns in several provinces and involvement in federal leadership bids, Outhouse is actively working to strengthen conservative alliances.
The strained interactions between Poilievre’s team and the two premiers were noticeable before, during, and after the previous federal election. In Ontario, tensions escalated as Ford’s team accused the federal party of lack of support during the provincial election. Conversely, Ford’s collaboration with the Liberal leader and criticisms of the Conservatives’ campaign strategy exacerbated the rift.
Similarly, Houston highlighted tensions with Poilievre’s former chief adviser and criticized the federal Conservatives for alienating rather than attracting support. In efforts to rebuild relationships post-2025 election, Poilievre’s team has been actively engaging with Ford’s team since last May, with public demonstrations of support for the Ontario premier on various issues.
Poilievre’s outreach extends to former leadership rival Patrick Brown, with visible efforts to strengthen ties through meetings and public endorsements. Despite these efforts, the impact of Poilievre’s outreach remains uncertain as responses from the premiers’ offices are yet to be received. A leadership review for Poilievre is scheduled later this month at the party’s convention in Calgary.
