OTTAWA – Blair Turner, a police officer from the Ottawa region, has announced his intention to seek the Conservative nomination for Pierre Poilievre’s former riding of Carleton. Turner previously contested the Conservative Party's nomination in Ottawa South during the most recent federal election held in April, where he lost to Defence Minister David McGuinty.

Pierre Poilievre, who had represented the Carleton riding for two decades, saw an unexpected shift in his political career when he lost the seat in the last general election. Following this defeat, he transitioned to run for a byelection in a rural Alberta riding during the summer of 2025.

In a notable turn of events, former MP Damien Kurek has decided to step down to allow Poilievre to run in the Battle River–Crowfoot riding, where he will emerge as the Conservative candidate for the upcoming election. This maneuver underscores the shifting dynamics within the Conservative Party as they prepare for the next federal contest.

As of now, Pierre Poilievre's future electoral plans remain uncertain, leading to speculation within political circles about where he might choose to run. Last weekend, during a mandatory leadership review, Conservative delegates demonstrated significant support for Poilievre, with 87 percent voting in favor of him continuing as party leader. This affirmation of leadership indicates a strong backing from party members as Poilievre navigates the challenges following recent electoral outcomes.

The developments surrounding Turner’s candidacy and Poilievre’s leadership come at a crucial time for the Conservative Party. With the next federal election on the horizon, the party has to strategize effectively to regain lost ground and build upon leadership support. The political landscape seems to be evolving, particularly in light of recent events, and the actions of key figures like Blair Turner and Pierre Poilievre will be critical in determining the party's trajectory.

This report was first published on February 6, 2026, and highlights the potential for new leadership and candidates as the Conservative Party gears up for the upcoming electoral battle. The emphasis on local riding contests and the decisions made by influential party members reflect the ongoing shifts in Canadian politics and the necessity for parties to adapt to the changing sentiments of their constituents.