Opinion: How Meighen and King survived Pierre Poilievre’s seatless dilemma - The Globe and Mail

Historical Parallels in Canadian Politics

The article compares Pierre Poilievre's recent electoral loss to similar situations faced by former Canadian Prime Ministers Arthur Meighen and William Lyon Mackenzie King. It highlights how both Meighen and King, despite losing their seats, managed to regain their political standing.

Meighen's and King's Experiences

Meighen, after losing his seat in 1921, secured a by-election win and even became Prime Minister later. King, losing his seat in 1925, also won a by-election and continued his political career. The article details the circumstances surrounding their respective losses and subsequent returns to power, emphasizing differing strategies and outcomes.

Poilievre's Situation

The article suggests a possible parallel for Poilievre, offering the resignation of a Conservative MP as a means of regaining a seat. It notes the potential for success given the previous vote margins, but also emphasizes Poilievre's seemingly inflexible approach mirroring Meighen's, contrasting it with King's more adaptable strategy.

Contrasting Leadership Styles

• King's adaptability: King's success is attributed to his ability to reconcile differences and seek a middle ground.
• Meighen's inflexibility: Meighen's rigid stance on certain policies ultimately hampered his career.
• Poilievre's approach: The article suggests that Poilievre's aggressive style might prove less successful in the long run, favoring Meighen's trajectory over King's.

The article concludes by suggesting that Poilievre's future political success may depend on adapting his strategy, drawing lessons from the differing paths taken by Meighen and King.