OTTAWA — Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne is set to unveil a federal budget on Tuesday that he claims will include no surprises and offer what he describes as "generational investments" for Canadians. Speaking at a press conference in Saint-Tite, Quebec, Champagne emphasized that the budget will cater to all Canadians. "We’re moving from reliance to resilience, from uncertainty to prosperity. We’re going to do the kind of things that will make this country stronger, and everyone will see themselves in that budget," he stated.

This budget marks the first fiscal update under Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership since he took office following the spring election. The government is currently three votes short of the support needed to pass the budget independently, making cooperation with opposition parties essential to avoid an early election.

Champagne noted that the budget aims to boost investment in Canada while addressing the challenges posed by an increasingly protectionist United States under President Donald Trump. He expressed optimism that opposition parties would find something positive in the budget. "I think there’s something positive in the budget for all the political parties," he said.

The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has indicated it may support the budget if it is deemed affordable. Poilievre mentioned that he would need to review the budget before making a decision. "If it were to bring down the cost of living — an affordable budget for an affordable living is something that I support," he said.

The Bloc Québécois has outlined specific demands, including increased Old Age Security payments and enhanced health transfers to provinces, which they consider non-negotiable. Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet has stated that his party is unlikely to support the budget unless these demands are met.

Interim NDP Leader Don Davies has also expressed caution, stating that his party is concerned about potential austerity measures in the budget. He indicated that the NDP would wait to see the details before deciding on their support, leaving open the possibility of abstaining from the vote.

Champagne highlighted the importance of investing in Canadian businesses by purchasing a pair of dress shoes from Boulet Boots, a family-owned company known for its craftsmanship. He remarked, "This has been made in Canada, by Canadians for Canadians, and I think it sends a powerful message to the rest of the country and to the world that Canada is a nation of builders."

As the government prepares for the budget release, the stakes are high. The outcome will not only impact the fiscal landscape but also determine the political future of Carney's minority government. With the clock ticking down to the budget announcement, the political dynamics remain fluid as parties weigh their options.