Pierre Poilievre secured a decisive victory in the Battle River-Crowfoot riding on Monday, ensuring his return to Parliament in September. This win marks a significant shift for Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has not faced Poilievre in the House of Commons since December. Previously, Carney had the advantage of not contending with the Conservative leader's pointed inquiries, especially after Poilievre lost his seat in Carleton during the last federal election.

With Poilievre back, Carney's relatively unchallenged tenure is coming to an end. While Carney has enjoyed public support for his policies, Poilievre's return could amplify scrutiny on pressing national issues, including the large deficit, housing affordability, and Canada’s relationship with the United States. Poilievre has already been vocal in criticizing the Liberal government's electric vehicle mandate, which he claims threatens rural lifestyles. The Conservatives are gearing up for a nationwide campaign against this mandate, which polls suggest many Canadians view as unrealistic.

Earlier this month, Poilievre challenged Carney to initiate at least two energy projects by March 2026, a year after Carney's swearing-in as prime minister. Carney has positioned himself as committed to expediting major project approvals to bolster the economy amid tariff threats from the U.S. However, despite the passage of the "One Canadian Economy" and "Building Canada Act" on June 26, no energy projects have yet emerged under Carney's leadership.

Poilievre has also called for the repeal of the industrial carbon tax and the Impact Assessment Act to facilitate private sector projects, but Carney has firmly rejected these requests. Carney has been vocal about his strategy to combat proposed tariffs from former President Donald Trump, but negotiations have stalled, with no agreements reached by the initial deadlines of July 21 and August 1.

As the parliamentary session approaches, Poilievre is expected to intensify his critiques of Carney's policies. Carney has expressed discomfort with being questioned, but Poilievre's presence in Parliament will likely lead to frequent confrontations. Carney's recent controversial statement regarding the recognition of Palestine as a state has also drawn criticism, particularly his conditions for Hamas to disarm, which many view as unrealistic.

Public opinion will be a crucial factor in the upcoming session. While a survey from early August indicated Carney's approval rating at 56 percent, only 36 percent of Canadians believe the country is on the right track. Many of the challenges that persisted under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remain unresolved and may be worsening. As Poilievre prepares to challenge Carney, the upcoming parliamentary session is poised to be a significant test for the prime minister.