Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre received a resounding endorsement from Arnie Stadnick, International Vice-President for Canada of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers, during a rally that drew an estimated 15,000 supporters on Monday night just outside Edmonton.
Stadnick, a 43-year resident of Alberta, took the stage to voice his support for Poilievre, citing concerns over the country’s economic decline, infrastructure challenges, illegal immigration, crime, housing shortages, and the controversial carbon tax.
A career union Boilermaker with Local 146, Stadnick emphasized his pride in earning a living in Alberta’s oil and gas sector — a sentiment he noted was shared by many in attendance.
“I stand before you this evening as I am concerned about the future of our families and our country,” Stadnick declared. “The demise of our economy for the last 10 years has caused concern right across Canada.”
He criticized what he called “frustrating hypocrisy” in Canada’s aggressive push to reduce carbon emissions while other nations continue to increase production unchecked.
"Arnie has a great track record," said Erika Barootes, a political analyst with MaKami College.
"I think it just reinforces how Pierre is standing up for the working class, fighting for workers across Canada — not elites. I think that echoes through with Arnie's members and Arnie's role. I think (his endorsement) reinforces that Pierre is standing up for workers in Canada."
Stadnick framed Poilievre as the leader best equipped to reverse these trends and restore Canada’s status as an energy-independent nation.
“We need to build more pipelines and get our oil and gas to other markets besides our American neighbours to the south,” he said, adding that Poilievre’s ability to represent Canadian interests in discussions with U.S. leadership sets him apart.
Highlighting Poilievre’s focus on supporting industry and working families, Stadnick praised the Conservative leader’s commitment to creating good-paying jobs.
“I am supportive of Pierre’s willingness to support our industry so that working men and women and their families can have good paying jobs and not have to worry about paying their bills,” he said.
He acknowledged potential critics but expressed confidence in Poilievre’s vision, stating, “I’m willing to give Pierre the opportunity to walk the talk.”
Stadnick also noted Poilievre’s growing connection with trade unions, suggesting the leader shares the perspective of those who “work hard on the infrastructure of this country.”
He concluded with a call to action, urging the crowd to join the “momentum” of Poilievre’s campaign “from coast to coast to coast” as he vies to become Canada’s next prime minister. The endorsement from a prominent union figure like Stadnick could bolster Poilievre’s appeal among working-class voters, particularly in resource-rich Alberta, as he continues to build support ahead of the next federal election.
The rally’s massive turnout underscored the energy behind his campaign, with attendees chanting and cheering throughout the night.
