Former Canadian politician Preston Manning argues that Canada needs viable alternatives to the current government led by Mark Carney. As the Carney administration faces scrutiny over its policies, Manning suggests that the search for alternatives will intensify.

Manning criticizes the recent federal budget for attributing Canada’s economic challenges to global events and tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. He believes this approach ignores the impact of a decade of mismanagement under the previous Trudeau government. The budget also continues to emphasize a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, which Manning views as a fixation of Carney’s.

He proposes an alternative budget that focuses on balancing federal expenditures and revenues by 2030. Manning emphasizes that achieving this goal will require significant downsizing of the federal bureaucracy. He criticizes the Carney government’s method of allowing the bureaucracy to manage its own downsizing, suggesting instead the establishment of an independent agency to oversee this process, similar to the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency.

On economic recovery, Manning expresses concern over the Carney government’s reliance on a government-run Major Projects Office to select industrial projects. He advocates for a Request for Proposals from private sector leaders in key industries, particularly in natural resources, to identify essential projects that the market deems necessary. He believes that reducing federal overreach will be crucial for stimulating investment and growth.

Manning also addresses the strain in federal-provincial relations, which he claims is exacerbated by federal intrusions into provincial jurisdictions. He calls for a federal Act Respecting Provincial Sovereignty to amend or repeal statutes that infringe on areas constitutionally assigned to provinces, such as natural resources and health care.

Regarding tariffs, Manning criticizes the Carney administration’s inconsistent responses to U.S. tariffs, which he argues are harming Canadian jobs and economic relations. He suggests a more strategic approach that involves engaging with U.S. sectors that require Canadian energy resources, aiming to build support among Trump’s political base for tariff modifications.

Manning also highlights a growing discontent among Canadians with the current style of political leadership, which he describes as self-centered. He calls for a more collaborative leadership model, where the Prime Minister is supported by a competent team of regional and sectoral leaders.

Finally, Manning raises the question of who will champion these alternatives in the political arena. He suggests that the current Leader of the Official Opposition could step up to become a leader of the alternative government that Canada needs.