In a recent and unexpected turn of events, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s candid video has surged in international popularity. The video, showcasing Poilievre eating an apple while addressing a local journalist’s queries, quickly went viral, securing him not just local but international recognition.
The footage has been met with a mix of accolades and censure on various platforms. According to Alex Marland, professor at Acadia University and the author of “Whipped: Party Discipline in Canada,” this viral moment serves as a political advantage for Poilievre. “This is worth lots of money in marketing dollars. Because it’s earned media. So it’s reaching a lot of people,” he commented.
In the contentious video, which has already garnered over 1.4 million views across different social media platforms, Don Urquhart, the editor of the Times Chronicle, is seen in a terse dialogue with Poilievre. The discussion revolves around populism and politics, taking place in Oliver, B.C. The exchange intensifies as Poilievre bites into an apple while refuting the comparisons drawn between him and Donald Trump.
How do you like them apples?
PART 1 pic.twitter.com/RkDBAn13nl
— Pierre Poilievre (@PierrePoilievre) October 14, 2023
The global media has taken distinct stances on the viral moment. Fox News reported Poilievre as “batting down [a] reporter’s questions,” and the Daily Mail portrayed him as “calmly tearing apart a reporter.” Additionally, Sky News in Australia expressed optimistic sentiments for Canada following the video.
Prominent personalities have also weighed in on this viral sensation. American TV journalist Megyn Kelly humorously asked, “Can we get him in our country?” while Elon Musk took to social media to express his intrigue about Poilievre, claiming he had “never heard of him before, but this interview is [fire emoji].”
National Canadian media platforms are actively discussing the video. A column in the National Post indicated that this event is being globally scrutinized as an exemplary instance of “political jiu-jitsu.” Conversely, the National Observer criticized Poilievre’s demeanor.
What Pierre Poilievre says: "I never really talk about left or right."
What Pierre Poilievre does: pic.twitter.com/QTjjJWo4lB
— Liberal Party (@liberal_party) October 17, 2023
The Liberal Party also shared its perspective on this event by releasing a version of the clip interlaced with Poilievre’s past comments regarding the “radical left” in the House of Commons. In response, Liberal MP Ryan Turnbull remarked on social media, calling out the Conservative leader’s attitude.
Fred DeLorey, former national campaign manager for the Conservative Party of Canada in 2021, voiced that this bold video has significantly elevated Poilievre’s status among conservatives. “He is a darling of the right in many regards,” he said. Nevertheless, Marland pointed out potential risks, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in politics. “We have to remember that in politics, everything is a performance. So there is nothing natural,” he reminded.
Marland also highlighted the evolving dynamics in Canadian politics, noting how Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s distinctiveness from his predecessor played a crucial role in his 2015 victory. He believes Poilievre’s off-the-cuff style might be the next game-changer.
However, Marland warned the viewers about the context, pointing out that the video was strategically packaged and disseminated by a political entity. He stressed the significance of understanding the medium through which political messages are conveyed.
Both Marland and DeLorey believe this viral moment offers an essential takeaway for journalists. The manner in which questions are posed and the specifics they delve into can entirely alter the narrative.
