Conservative candidate Stephen Curran addresses voter criticism of Pierre Poilievre

Stephen Curran, a Conservative candidate in the North Vancouver—Capilano federal byelection, acknowledged receiving voter criticism regarding Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. During an all-candidates panel in West Vancouver, an audience member described Poilievre as “divisive in the extreme” and questioned whether the Conservative Party is willing to collaborate with the Liberal government and other opposition parties.

Curran admitted he has heard similar concerns while campaigning. While he defended the party’s collaborative efforts—citing support for Bill C-5 and the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax—he noted a recurring criticism that the party focuses on criticism rather than offering solutions. Curran stated his priority as a potential Member of Parliament would be to provide direction to the government “respectfully and constructively,” while noting that Poilievre and the Conservative caucus are not the individuals on the ballot.