Delegates at the national convention of the Conservative Party in Calgary overwhelmingly approved a law resembling “stand your ground” legislation, allowing individuals to use lethal force to defend against intruders in their homes. The convention saw the adoption of numerous policies, with a focus on areas such as crime, immigration, and social issues.
After providing strong support for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, party members updated their policy agenda in preparation for a potential upcoming federal election. Delegates emphasized the importance of Poilievre ruling out the decriminalization of additional drugs, tightening bail regulations, and implementing stricter laws to combat intimate partner violence.
Over 90% of delegates advocated for a return to “meritocracy” by eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Additionally, about 77% of delegates, despite some opposition from Quebec, voted to defund CBC/Radio-Canada.
Immigration policies were a key focus at the convention, with approximately 77% of delegates backing the immediate deportation of non-citizens in Canada convicted of serious offenses, along with advocating for enhanced border security and asylum system reforms.
One contentious issue emerged regarding a proposed policy opposing the existing ban on conversion therapy. While a narrow majority of delegates supported this opposition, it did not meet the requirement for a “double majority” approval across provinces and territories.
A significant highlight was the overwhelmingly positive reception of the self-defense policy, which would protect Canadians from prosecution for using lethal force against home intruders. The policy, endorsed by 91% of delegates, aimed to address concerns over the legal repercussions faced by individuals defending themselves in their homes.
Delegates also demanded increased grassroots involvement in candidate selection processes, emphasizing the need for local officials to have a say in nominating candidates for the party. These constitutional changes were motivated by concerns of national party interference in local electoral district associations and allegations of favoritism in candidate selection.
The convention concluded with a call for more transparent and inclusive nomination processes to empower local riding associations and ensure fair candidate selection practices. The amendments were a response to previous incidents of perceived interference and irregularities in candidate nominations within the party.