Hamilton, Ontario – 604News was on hand last night as Pierre Poilievre brought his campaign tour to Hamilton, Ontario, for his Canada First rally. An estimated 4,500 people filled the venue, with another 51,000 tuning in via YouTube and tens of thousands more watching live on platforms like Facebook and X. Lineups for the event were stretched well outside the venue, with speakers marvelling at the size of the attendance.
The atmosphere was alive with energy and optimism, a clear sign that many Canadians are eager to turn the page on what Poilievre calls a “lost decade.” Under the Liberal government, housing prices have soared, affordability has plummeted for millions—nearly half the country—and unchecked immigration has strained resources. Attendees voiced frustration over policies like the $224/day paid to many refugee claimants – most of whom are ineligible for refugee status – a figure far exceeding what most Canadians earn themselves.
Poilievre’s message struck a chord, promising tangible relief: a 15% across-the-board income tax cut, a surge in housing construction to ease skyrocketing rents and home prices, and a laser focus on affordability by “putting Canadians first.” Supporters cheered his pledge to reverse what they see as years of systemic Liberal abuse and misplaced priorities.
The rally didn’t shy away from critiquing the Trudeau Liberals’ record. Poilievre pointed to billions spent on foreign aid—hundreds of millions funnelled to terrorist governments and murky “gender-equity” projects in war zones—while offensive domestic initiatives, like disarming law-abiding gun owners to purportedly curb unrelated crime, have left many feeling deceived, under federal assault, and demanding a new government.
That hunger for change pulsed through the Hamilton crowd. With the April 28 election looming, those in attendance seemed united in their readiness to back Poilievre’s vision and reclaim a Canada that works for its own. If last night’s turnout and enthusiasm are any indication, his momentum is building fast.
