In a stunning political upset, Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has lost his parliamentary seat, capping off a devastating election night for Canada’s Conservatives and marking a remarkable resurgence for the Liberal Party.

The Liberals, now led by former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, secured an unexpected national victory defying months of polling that once projected a Conservative landslide.

Poilievre, who had represented the Carleton riding in rural Ottawa since 2004, was unseated by Liberal challenger Bruce Fanjoy, according to projections by national broadcaster CBC. His defeat marks the first time since 1993 that a major party leader has lost their seat in a federal election a flashback to the historic collapse of Kim Campbell and the Progressive Conservatives.

Despite early indicators of defeat, Poilievre addressed supporters in the early hours of Tuesday without conceding. “It will be an honor to continue to fight for you and be a champion for your cause as we go forward,” he said, as final results were still being tallied in his riding.

As recently as late 2024, Poilievre appeared poised to become Canada’s next prime minister. His populist platform, bolstered by support from former U.S. President Donald Trump, led some polls to show a 25-point lead over then-incumbent Justin Trudeau. However, the campaign quickly unraveled amid controversy and unexpected shifts on both sides of the border.

Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric including remarks suggesting Canada could become the "51st state" sparked a wave of unease among Canadian voters. Meanwhile, Trudeau’s decision to step down as Liberal leader opened the door for Carney, whose steady, technocratic image appealed to moderate voters seeking stability.

Carney’s campaign gained momentum by distancing itself from Poilievre’s Trump-inspired positions, including calls to defund the CBC and drastically reduce foreign aid. Liberal messaging successfully painted Poilievre as out of touch and too aligned with American-style divisive politics a narrative that appeared to sway voters even in some Conservative strongholds.

During his victory speech, Prime Minister-designate Carney responded to a supporter who shouted “Bruce!” with a smile, saying, “I’m looking forward to working with Bruce Fanjoy,” acknowledging the newly elected MP who toppled the Conservative leader.

Poilievre’s loss now leaves the Conservative Party at a crossroads, raising urgent questions about its leadership, strategy, and future in Canadian politics.