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Byrne Steps Down as Campaign Chief, Poilievre Eyes Alberta Return

Byrne’s defense of an affordability-first strategy underscores her decision to remain a behind-the-scenes adviser

Jenni Byrne waits to appear before the procedure and House affairs committee meeting on Thursday, May 11, 2023, in Ottawa. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks at a press conference about recognizing Palestinian statehood, while Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand listens, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, July 30, 2025.  REUTERS/Patrick Doyle
Chief of staff to former Conservative prime minister Stephen Harper, Jenni Byrne makes her way to a Procedure and House Affairs committee meeting on May 11, 2023, in Ottawa. Byrne is now the national campaign director for the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre.
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Overview

  • Jenni Byrne will not oversee the Conservative Party’s next federal election campaign and has stepped back from daily operations.
  • She will continue advising Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative caucus in a strategic capacity.
  • Byrne defended maintaining an affordability-focused message instead of pivoting to address President Trump’s trade threats.
  • She conceded that her team did not spot vulnerabilities in Poilievre’s Carleton riding soon enough.
  • Pierre Poilievre is campaigning in the August 18 Battle River–Crowfoot by-election and is expected to retake a seat in the House.