Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Sing could end up holding the Liberals in power by supporting tariff bailout legislation before a confidence vote in the House of Commons — which is currently prorogued as the Liberals find a new leader.
President Donald Trump could impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods entering the U.S. as soon as February first — potentially creating layoffs across Canadian industries.
The Liberal's solution, requiring legislation and NDP support, could involve spending billions to bail-out workers and companies in a similar manner as inflationary COVID-19 bailouts.
Bailing out Canadian workers and companies would change the conversation during the run-up to a federal election — positioning Singh and the new Liberal leader as saviours against Trump.
Canada's next federal election is scheduled for October 20. A vote could come sooner if opposition parties vote non-confidence in the Liberals once Parliament resumes.
On Tuesday, a reporter asked Singh, "If Trump follows through on his plan with tariffs, would you keep the Liberals in power and allow for the passage of a work relief program before supporting a non-confidence motion?"
Singh said there are thousands of Canadian jobs at risk.
"This could be devastating for our country," he said — avoiding a direct answer to the question.
"So, we do need to have a plan in place to support those that are impacted, those businesses, those workers. Most importantly, I have not had any conversations with other opposition leaders."
MP Yves-Francois Blanchet, leader of the Bloc Quebecois, says he won't support Liberal work relief program / tariff bailout legislation. He is calling for an election.
"(This is) true hell in terms of parliamentary work," he said. "If the Liberals want things to become clear and want to help people, they should simply start the election sooner."