Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston appeared to be downplaying rumours that he is jockeying to turn into the subsequent chief of the Conservative Celebration of Canada, however acknowledged Wednesday that he is taken classes to study French — a nod to the bilingualism that is anticipated of federal social gathering leaders.
“No, I am centered on, properly, I am centered on Nova Scotia,” he stated at a media availability in Halifax when requested if he is within the federal management.
When pressed to make clear he stated, “Oh, I am centered on Nova Scotia, you guys, that is fairly clear.”
Hypothesis about Houston’s political ambitions began swirling final week when he posted a extremely produced video on social media wherein he rattles off an extended record of native accolades and factors of satisfaction. He ends it saying, “My identify is Tim, and I’m Nova Scotian.”
He launched the video the day earlier than Conservative Chief Pierre Poilievre made his sole marketing campaign cease within the province. Poilievre held a rally in Trenton, N.S., which is simply minutes from Houston’s personal provincial driving, and Houston didn’t attend.
Houston stated the timing of the video launch was “a pure coincidence,” and the intent of the video was to advertise Nova Scotia and evoke provincial and nationwide satisfaction.
Sources have described Houston and Poilievre having a frosty relationship over the past six months, though Houston stated Wednesday he would not go as far as to name it a “rift.”
He stated issues between the 2 leaders’ groups started throughout the Nova Scotia common election marketing campaign final fall, however was not particular. He stated there was “one thing that occurred there that type of, most likely had some ramifications on either side.”
When a reporter requested Houston if he is taken French classes he replied, “un peu” — French for “a bit of” — with a smile.
Time for ‘soul-searching’
Even when Houston desires the highest job with the Conservative Celebration, it’s not at the moment accessible. Poilievre misplaced his seat this week, however was unequivocal in his speech on election evening that he intends to proceed as chief.
Some Conservatives have already lent public support for him staying on.
Houston was essential of the Conservative marketing campaign and defeat.
“After 4 consecutive losses to the Liberal Celebration, I feel it is time for them to do some soul-searching. I hope they do,” Houston stated.
However he would not touch upon Poilievre’s management, saying it will be as much as the social gathering to resolve. He has beforehand highlighted that he’s not a member of any federal social gathering and he repeatedly makes the excellence between Nova Scotia Progressive Conservatives and federal Conservatives.
“The Conservative Celebration of Canada was excellent at pushing individuals away, not so good at pulling individuals in,” he stated of the federal social gathering’s marketing campaign.
Excited to work with Carney
In the meantime, Houston stated he is wanting ahead to working with Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberals.
“I am enthusiastic about among the initiatives they’ve talked about. Definitely the nationwide power hall and making Canada an power superpower — these are issues which can be actually thrilling … for Nova Scotia.”
Houston stated he talked to Carney throughout the marketing campaign about his priorities for the province and he has “reached out” to Carney since his win to proceed the dialog.
MORE TOP STORIES
Source link