It seems the Liberal government has tried every trick in the book to salvage its declining support among Canadians, but Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, bless her heart, has found something entirely new: a blend of arrogance and condescension that only exacerbates the problem.
The “Vibecession” Disconnect
In a recent interview, Freeland attempted to explain the growing divide between Canada’s positive economic indicators and the public’s grim perception of the economy. According to her, a “vibecession” — a term coined by economists, though one wonders if these economists actually exist — is to blame. Despite falling inflation and interest rates, Canadians aren’t feeling the improvement. So, in response, Freeland’s government is offering temporary handouts, such as a GST holiday and cash rebates for some Canadians. However, these measures raise more questions than answers. Is this the kind of fiscal policy that will turn the tide, or simply another band-aid solution?
The Struggle with Communication
If the problem is indeed a communications issue and not one where Canadians are still struggling to afford basic necessities, perhaps Freeland could do more to connect with the public. Perhaps she could stand outside a discount grocery store holding a chart comparing Canada’s economic progress with other G7 nations. Or, to appeal to younger Canadians, Freeland could create a TikTok addressing the housing crisis, reminding them that while they may never own a home, at least interest rates are lower. The gap between political messaging and the daily struggles of Canadians seems impossible to bridge at this point.
The Trouble with Free Cash and GST Holidays
Freeland’s latest plan involves sending $250 to individuals earning up to $150,000 and eliminating GST on certain items for two months. The problem is that many of those struggling to make ends meet, such as retirees, won’t benefit from these measures, as they are only available to those who worked in 2023 and meet income requirements. The policy is also unevenly applied across provinces, making it harder to justify when some Canadians will only see savings on 5% of their purchases while others will save the entire tax. The government is spending borrowed funds, not surplus revenue, and this $6.3 billion measure risks blowing through the government’s fiscal limits.
The “Vibecession” and Gaslighting the Public
What’s perhaps most alarming is Freeland’s dismissal of Canadians’ concerns. Telling struggling citizens that they’re simply wrong about their economic reality, and that it’s merely a problem with the “vibes,” further alienates voters. It’s hard to imagine a more out-of-touch statement than suggesting Canadians who are cutting back on basics like food are simply misinterpreting the economic data.
In the wake of the U.S. Democrats’ electoral losses, it’s clear that belittling voters and gaslighting them about their circumstances can be politically catastrophic. Yet, this is the approach Freeland seems to have taken in defending her government’s policies.
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The Liberals’ Contempt for Dissent
The Liberal government’s disdain for those who question their policies is becoming more evident. Whether it’s Freeland’s “cold, cruel, and small” rhetoric about the opposition, or Trudeau’s dismissal of voter concerns in recent by-elections, the narrative is always the same: if you don’t agree with us, it’s your fault, not ours. Even as Canadians struggle with rising costs, such as 22% increases in cheese prices over four years, the government insists that the economy is actually improving.
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