Prince Albert Member of Parliament Randy Hoback says the Conservative Party of Canada’s leadership convention delivered a clear message of unity and readiness as the party looks toward the next federal election.
The Conservative Party of Canada held its national convention in Calgary from Jan. 29 to 31, 2026, where delegates voted on Jan. 30 for a required leadership review.
The party concluded its leadership review over the weekend, with 87 percent of members voting in favour of leader Pierre Poilievre. Hoback said the result was not unexpected and reflected strong confidence among party members.
“I am not surprised with that number,” Hoback said. “We knew going into that convention that he had tremendous support.”
Hoback said one of the most striking elements of the convention was the high level of youth participation, which he described as energizing and encouraging for the party’s future.
“It was a convention that was full of youth,” he said. “I have never seen so many young Conservatives in a room, bringing in enthusiasm and excitement.”
He said the strong leadership result removes any uncertainty within the party and allows Conservatives to focus on preparing for an election whenever it is called.
“There is no question about his leadership and what the party wants, and they want Pierre Poilievre to lead us into the next election,” Hoback said.
Asked what the level of support says about the direction Conservatives want to take, Hoback framed the vote as a response to broader concerns about global and domestic stability.
He said members are looking for leadership that can protect Canada from economic and security pressures arising from conflicts and uncertainty abroad.
“They want a leader who can insulate Canadians from insecurity and instability,” Hoback said. “To make sure Canadians’ jobs, security, and freedoms are safe.”
Hoback said the leadership review gives Poilievre the mandate to begin outlining a clearer national vision, including how a Conservative government would manage the economy and address future challenges.
He added that Conservatives still need to explain that vision clearly to undecided voters and demonstrate why the party is best positioned to govern.
At the local level, Hoback said the leadership result resonates strongly in Prince Albert and surrouding communities, where support for the Conservatives has remained consistent.
“Prince Albert has been a strong supporter of the Conservative Party,” he said. “People want a Poilievre Conservative government, and this provides some comfort going forward.”
Hoback also said smaller cities and northern communities were well represented at the convention, with delegates from across the riding actively involved in policy debates.
“There is no differentiation between the people of the city of Prince Albert and the rural communities,” he said. “They all speak with one voice.”
Looking ahead, Hoback said Canadians can expect the party to begin laying out policy priorities and a longer-term vision following the convention.
“You will start seeing us talk about the future of Canada and how we would work to make it better,” he said.
Hoback said he plans to continue advocating for Prince Albert in Ottawa and contributing where he can, including through his background in trade, as the party prepares for the next campaign.
arjun.pillai@paherald.sk.ca
