Lethbridge Herald: As Parliament Returns, Conservatives Stand for Canadians and Their Priorities

As a new session of Parliament begins, I am hearing from many people who are feeling anxious about the future. With another Liberal mandate ahead, it is understandable that some feel disheartened— frustrated by rising costs, crumbling trust in institutions, and a government that seems increasingly out of touch.

But history reminds us that even in the most uncertain times, Canadians have never been without hope.

John Diefenbaker—a prairie lawyer with prairie values—once faced a nation weary after 22 uninterrupted years of Liberal government. Against the odds, he rose to become Canada’s 13th Prime Minister.

What made Diefenbaker remarkable wasn’t just his political triumph, but his unwavering faith in the people of this country. He did not govern from above—he listened, he connected, and he gave Canadians a voice.

That belief was not just words—it was action. In the lead-up to the 1958 election, Diefenbaker famously crossed the country by train, stopping in town after town to speak directly to Canadians. At each whistle stop, he stepped onto the back platform to speak from his heart to the crowds that gathered—not just to ask for their vote, but because he believed in them. He believed their voices mattered. And Canadians responded in kind, giving him one of the largest electoral victories in our history.

That same belief in the people is what motivates my Conservative colleagues and me as we return to Parliament. Like Diefenbaker, we are committed to being a voice for everyday Canadians—the workers, builders, parents, and dreamers who deserve a government that sees them, hears them, and works for them.

We have five clear priorities for this session—shaped not in backrooms, but from conversations at doorsteps and town halls.

1. Restoring Affordability— Families across the country are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and must budget carefully. But the Liberal government has not shown the same responsibility. They haven’t created a budget yet, even though they are spending tens of billions of dollars. That’s why, with all opposition parties supporting us, our first action was to demand accountability. We passed a motion forcing the government to present a budget before summer. If they fail to comply, they will be held in contempt.

2. Rebuilding Economic Independence— Canada’s natural resources are among the best in the world, developed under strict environmental and ethical standards. Yet Liberal policies continue to stifle our energy and business sectors. We will fight to unlock Canada’s economic potential—so our communities can thrive, our businesses can grow, and our country can once again lead on the world stage.

3. Getting Homes Built— The dream of homeownership is slipping out of reach for too many, especially young Canadians. Conservatives are pushing to remove the red tape and taxes that are driving up costs and slowing down construction. We believe in a Canada where those who work hard can own a home and build a future with confidence.

4. Restoring Safety to Our Streets— From coast to coast, crime is on the rise. In fact, a recent Fraser Institute report showed that Lethbridge now has the highest rate of property crime in the country. That’s unacceptable. Conservatives will fight to end the Liberals’ reckless catch-and-release policies, support law enforcement, and restore safety in our communities.

5. Fixing a Broken Immigration System— Canada has always welcomed newcomers warmly, and we believe this should continue—done thoughtfully and responsibly. After years of Liberal mismanagement, our immigration system is stretched too thin and no longer fair. We are committed to restoring balance, focusing on better integration, and making sure the system works well for both new arrivals and those already living here.

Alongside these five priorities, we remain steadfast in defending Canada’s history, traditions, and way of life. As the Shadow Minister for Canadian Identity and Culture, I will continue to champion our heritage, resist Liberal censorship, and push to defund the CBC, which has consistently failed to steward taxpayer dollars responsibly.

Diefenbaker once said, “I am a Canadian, a free Canadian, free to speak without fear.” That freedom—of thought, of speech, and of opportunity—must remain at the heart of this country.

My Conservative colleagues and I are proud to stand as the government-in-waiting. But more importantly, we are here now—as your voice, your advocates, and your partners in building a strong, united, and hopeful Canada.

Because the hope of this country has never been found in Ottawa. It has always been found in Canadians themselves.