Quebec MP Maxime Bernier kicked off his leadership bid for the Conservative party on Sunday.
Bernier spoke at a rally in Quebec on Sunday morning, pledging to lead in a fashion that respects taxpayers. If elected, Bernier said he'd run a smaller government, lower taxes and increase efforts to pay down the debt.
Peter Graefe, a political science professor at McMaster University, said Bernier is at the forefront of what he called the Conservatives’ “libertarian wing.”
“He brings a really steadfast belief in (the) free market as a solution to problems,” Graefe told CTV News Channel, adding that Bernier is seen by many as a “young and dynamic” figure.
The 53-year-old MP announced his intention to run last month, making him the second official contender for the permanent leadership of the Conservatives. Ontario MP Kellie Leitch has also entered the race.
While Bernier might enjoy some popularity in Quebec and parts of Alberta, Graefe said he has his work cut out for him in other parts of the country.
“They appreciate his very strong and steadfast defence of free markets, but he’s certainly not the best-known of the candidates,” Graefe said. “In places like Ontario and British Columbia, I think he would a lot of work to do to convince them he has the capacity to lead and potentially win.”
Ontario MP Michael Chong has scheduled a news conference for Monday, where he is expected to announce his bid. Other Tories rumoured to be contemplating a run include MPs Tony Clement and Lisa Raitt.
Graefe said less well-known candidates, like Bernier and Chong, typically launch their campaigns earlier and use the extra time to gather support and resources.
Biggers names that might enter the race will likely wait until the fall to save costs, he added.
The vote for the new Conservative leader is scheduled for May 27, 2017.
With files from The Canadian Press
