The Right-Wing's Divisions and the Challenge of Building a Citizen-Empowered Government

By Tom Marazzo, Captain (Ret’d) Canadian Army

In recent weeks, the Canadian right-wing has once again demonstrated its inability to unify, even when presented with an opportunity to push for systemic political change. This division has not been caused by external forces or left-wing opposition—it is entirely self-inflicted. Unlike the left, which operates with a collectivist mindset and a strong ability to work together, right-wing supporters, often valuing individualism, struggle to find common ground.

The 51st State Debate: A Symptom of a Deeper Issue

U.S. President Donald Trump recently mused about Canada becoming the 51st state of the United States. This idea, while seemingly offhand, has gained both support and opposition, sparking an emotional debate among Canadians. The responses were intensely emotional, with strong nationalistic outrage from those opposed and equally passionate arguments from supporters who emphasized the economic, military, and political benefits of joining the U.S.

The intensity of these reactions highlights a deep ideological divide within Canada. Those who rejected the idea did so based on patriotism, fear of losing sovereignty, and distrust of American influence, while proponents framed it as a pragmatic solution to Canada's economic struggles, national defense vulnerabilities, and government corruption. Instead of fostering a rational policy debate, the conversation quickly devolved into an emotional battlefield, where the emotional side was willing to acknowledge the other’s concerns objectively.

The reality is that this idea surfaced because of the weakness of our federal government. Canada’s lack of national defense, growing foreign infiltration from China and India, and vulnerabilities in Arctic sovereignty highlight just how exposed we are on the global stage. Even our closest ally, the United States, understands that Canada is incapable of defending itself against these threats.

The knee-jerk reaction to the 51st state discussion exemplifies the right-wing’s inability to focus on the root issues. Instead of a pragmatic discussion about national sovereignty, defense, and governance, the debate turned into another wedge issue, further dividing an already fractured movement.

The Illusion of Quick Fixes: Why True Change Requires Hard Work

Some Canadians view joining the U.S. as a way to escape our political turmoil. However, democracy is hard work—there is no quick fix. Change does not come through simple solutions like switching systems overnight; it requires dedication, strategic planning, and the long-term commitment to rebuild government institutions that truly serve the people.

A more meaningful discussion should be centered on whether Canada’s current parliamentary system effectively empowers its citizens. The Republic model, where voters elect a President directly, has certain advantages over the First Past the Post system, which often results in a Prime Minister chosen by a minority of the population and a political party rather than the people directly.

The Right’s Failure to Seize the Initiative

Just last week, announcements of Trudeau’s potential resignation briefly reinvigorated discussions about political action after he used the announcement as an excuse to prorogue Parliament for three months. A group of Canadians recognized this as an opportunity to push for real change. However, instead of gaining traction, the idea was swiftly dismantled by internal right-wing infighting and unqualified justifications for rejecting the idea, and it was all done in the public sphere instead of privately.

While left-wing movements know how to mobilize effectively, the right-wing has repeatedly failed to capitalize on critical political moments. Whether it's due to ideological purism, personal grievances, or lack of strategic coordination, the right continues to squander opportunities that could reshape Canada’s future.