Andrew ScheerEdit
Andrew Scheer is a Canadian politician who has been a prominent figure in federal politics since the early 2000s. A long-serving Member of Parliament for the riding of Regina—Qu'Appelle, he rose to national prominence as the Speaker of the House of Commons and later led the Conservative Party of Canada. His career has been defined by a focus on fiscal discipline, support for Canada’s energy sector, and a practical approach to governance that emphasizes economic growth, strong institutions, and national unity.
Scheer first entered federal politics in 2004 as a member of the Parliament of Canada for Regina—Qu'Appelle (electoral district). Over the years, he built a reputation as a conscientious legislator with an emphasis on cost-conscious governance and respectful, rules-based debate. In 2011, he was elected to serve as the Speaker of the House of Commons, a role in which he presided over parliamentary proceedings with a focus on procedure and order. He held that office until 2015, leaving it to pursue the leadership of his party and to offer a clear, disciplined voice on national policy issues. After his tenure as Speaker, Scheer remained a central figure within the Conservative Party of Canada and its national platform discussions.
Political career
Member of Parliament and Speaker (2004–2015)
As a long-time MP for Regina—Qu'Appelle, Scheer participated in debates on a broad set of policy issues, developing a reputation for fiscal seriousness and a practical approach to government. His time as Speaker of the House of Commons is often cited for its emphasis on civility in debate and adherence to parliamentary procedure, which supporters argue helped preserve the legitimacy of institutions during a polarized era. The experience also helped shape his understanding of Canada’s constitutional framework and the importance of a principled, predictable government.
Leadership of the Conservative Party (2017–2020)
Scheer was elected leader of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2017, at a moment when the party sought a clear alternative to the governing party’s agenda. As leader, he pressed a platform centered on fiscal conservatism, lower taxes, deregulatory measures to spur growth, and a more assertive stance on national defense and security. His leadership emphasized message control, disciplined policy development, and a commitment to balancing budgets where feasible while investing in core priorities such as jobs and economic resilience.
In the 2019 federal election, the Conservatives under Scheer won the largest share of seats, but the Liberal Party formed a minority government. Critics argued that the campaign failed to win over key urban voters and to present a comprehensive plan on climate and energy that could compete with the governing party’s agenda. His supporters, however, point to the party’s clear focus on taxes, affordability, and energy jobs as principles that resonate with a substantial segment of the electorate, particularly in western Canada and among rural voters. After the election, Scheer stepped down as party leader, remaining a leading voice within conservative debates and policy discussions.
Return to the backbench and ongoing influence
Even after stepping down as leader, Scheer has remained an influential figure within Canadian conservative thought, contributing to policy discussions and representing a pragmatic, results-oriented approach to governance. His career continues to reflect a consistent preference for improving the everyday lives of Canadians through policies that promote growth, opportunity, and personal responsibility.
Policy positions
Economic policy and taxation
A centerpiece of Scheer’s public stance is fiscal responsibility. He has argued for restrained government spending, a focus on balance where possible, and tax relief aimed at families and small businesses. Proponents contend that a predictable tax and regulatory environment creates jobs and lowers the cost of living, while critics argue that revenue gaps risk service levels. The discussion around tax policy and budget priorities is central to how conservatives frame their economic case, and Scheer’s approach emphasizes the importance of long-term economic health and competitiveness.
Energy, natural resources, and the environment
Scheer has been a strong advocate for Canada’s energy sector, including pipelines and related infrastructure. He has argued that expanding energy production can create high‑paying jobs and revenue for provinces, while stressing that environmental stewardship should be pursued through technology and innovation rather than heavy-handed regulation. The Conservative platform under his leadership emphasized the goal of making Canada a reliable supplier of global energy, with a more province-driven approach to climate policy. He has opposed a federal carbon tax as a sole national instrument, instead favoring measures that align with provincial plans and market-based incentives that protect households and competitiveness. Policy proposals in this vein frequently referenced major projects such as the Trans Mountain pipeline and related energy infrastructure developments, linked to broader discussions about energy security and economic growth carbon tax policy debates.
National security, immigration, and rule of law
On national security and border policy, Scheer has advocated for robust enforcement of laws, stronger border protections, and a prudent, orderly approach to immigration that prioritizes the economic and security interests of Canadians. Supporters argue that a firm approach to security helps maintain public confidence in institutions and keeps communities safe, while critics may warn against perceptions of rigidity or exclusive policies. The emphasis, in practice, has been on balancing openness with the rule of law and the safety of Canadian citizens.
Social issues and cultural values
Scheer’s public profile reflects a grounding in traditional civic values and religiously informed perspectives common among many in Canada’s conservative movement. He has spoken in favor of protecting conscience rights for individuals and organizations and has been careful to articulate a respect for religious liberty within a pluralist society. In debates over social policy, he has been associated with positions that are often characterized as pro-life or protective of traditional family concepts by supporters, while critics argue for broader inclusivity and rapid social change. The discussions around these issues highlight a enduring tension in Canadian politics between freedom of belief, individual rights, and evolving social norms same-sex marriage in Canada and Abortion in Canada.
Controversies and debates
Climate policy and the carbon tax
A core area of controversy surrounds Scheer’s stance on climate policy and taxation. Critics argued that his opposition to a national carbon tax could hinder progress on emissions reductions, while supporters contended that a revenue-neutral, market-based approach respectful of provincial differences would deliver real results without imposing costs on households and small businesses. Proponents of Scheer’s approach asserted that policies should be tailored to local conditions and should protect workers in energy-producing regions, arguing that heavy-handed federal mandates risk stifling growth. This debate reflected broader tensions between environmental objectives and economic competitiveness in Canada’s federation, and it remains a touchstone in discussions about energy policy and climate action carbon tax.
Social policy and religious liberty
The intersection of faith, family, and public policy has generated ongoing debate. Critics have suggested that conservative positions on social issues may constrain rights for some groups, while supporters argue that a society that respects pluralism and conscience rights can accommodate diverse beliefs without compromising individual liberties. The discussion around religious liberty in public life is part of a broader conversation about how Canada reconciles tradition with social progress, and it is frequently framed within the context of constitutional protections and the lived experiences of Canadians in diverse communities Same-sex marriage in Canada.
Electoral dynamics and urban-rural divides
Scheer’s leadership era highlighted enduring questions about electoral strategy in a changing country. Critics argued that the message and coalition needed to win in urban centers were not fully realized, while supporters emphasized the importance of defending economic drivers like energy production and tax relief in regions where voters feel the impact of federal policy most directly. The debates over how political parties connect with urban voters, rural voters, and different regions are central to understanding the Conservative Party’s strategic choices in recent elections. See, for example, ongoing discussions about how Canada’s major parties address provincial diversity and regional economies Parliament of Canada.