Former British Columbia Premier Christy Clark announced on Tuesday her decision not to run for the federal Liberal leadership, citing time constraints as a significant factor. In her statement, Clark emphasized the challenge of launching a successful campaign given the limited timeframe available.
Clark expressed gratitude towards her team, stating, “We’ve put together an amazing team on very short notice. We have hundreds of organizers from every province and territory.” She acknowledged the honor of collaborating with dedicated individuals who share a vision for the party and the country. However, she ultimately concluded that it was essential for women and Western Canadians to consider entering the political arena, stating, “I know it’s important for women and Westerners — those most likely to find themselves outside the corridors of power in Ottawa — to consider putting their names forward. But, friends, I have made the difficult decision to step back.”
A critical aspect of her decision was the acknowledgment that she felt insufficiently prepared to engage with Francophone Canadians in their language, despite her efforts to improve her French. She remarked, “I have worked hard at improving my French but it’s not where it needs to be, today.” Clark expressed skepticism about whether the current timing of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation would allow for a meaningful renewal within the Liberal Party.
Clark further articulated her views on the necessity for the Liberal Party to rejuvenate itself and attract new supporters. She highlighted the importance of uniting the party around a broader coalition of Canadians who may feel excluded. She criticized the divisive politics of Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and labeled the NDP’s approaches as unrealistic. She asserted, “Our Party must still find a way to generate new momentum and energy. To open itself up to a broader group of Canadians who have felt left out, but who can’t abide the snarling, sneering politics of Pierre Poilievre or the unrealistic approach of the NDP.”
Clark emphasized the need to redefine the Liberal Party as a “big tent Party” that prioritizes jobs, workers, investment, and growth. Her statement followed closely after her previous comments to CBC Radio, where she had indicated a serious consideration of a leadership bid but expressed disappointment about the lack of time for a comprehensive campaign.
Additionally, Clark faced scrutiny regarding her party affiliations, particularly her previous membership in the Conservative Party. Despite initially claiming she was never a member, documents from the Conservatives indicated that she had been an active member between June 2, 2022, and June 30, 2023. On social media, Clark later admitted to “misspeaking” but maintained her claim of having supported Jean Charest in an effort to prevent Pierre Poilievre's leadership within the Conservative Party.
In her concluding remarks, Clark stated, “I won’t be in this leadership race but I won’t stop fighting. Pierre Poilievre would rather attack Canadians than call out Donald Trump. He’s a bully when he’s here at home and a pathetic pushover for the MAGA Republicans. We don’t need Governor Poilievre. We need the Liberal Party at the top of its game.” As the party looks to appoint a new leader on March 9, 2025, Clark's insights underscore the ongoing challenges and negotiations within Canadian political landscapes.
