Conservatives finally enter ‘acceptance’ stage of political grief

Putting Michael Chong on the finance file signals outreach to Red Tories and Bay Street. But more importantly, it elevates the veteran MP’s measured public tone and perspective.

New Conservative finance critic Michael Chong’s role is one that should see him front and centre on budget days, and in the development of the party’s next election platform, writes Ken Polk. The Hill Times photograph by Aidan Raynor

Opinion

BY KEN POLK

July 7, 2026

Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre’s appointment of veteran Ontario MP Michael Chong as Conservative finance critic suggests that Poilievre is finally coming to terms with his loss in the last election.

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