Following the release of the first report of the public inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian elections, Conservative Members of Parliament Michael Chong and Luc Berthold convened on Parliament Hill to provide their perspectives. The report presents conclusions that sharply diverge from the narrative presented by the government in recent months.
Commissioner Hogue’s report concludes that while foreign interference did not alter the outcomes of the 2019 and 2021 federal elections or directly undermine the integrity of the electoral system, it did leave an indelible mark on the electoral process. She emphasized that these acts of interference, though not determinative in the results, cast a shadow over the democratic process and could have influenced outcomes at the riding level.
Chong, the Conservative critic for foreign affairs, remarked that the report’s conclusions were starkly different from the Trudeau government’s assertions over the past 18 months. He highlighted Commissioner Hogue’s assessment that interference occurred in the last two elections and had broader implications, particularly eroding public trust in Canadian democracy. Chong stressed the significance of these findings, especially in how they disproportionately affected diaspora communities, notably the Chinese community.
Key among the report’s conclusions was the suspicion of foreign interference in specific electoral nominations. Hogue specifically noted the suspicion surrounding Mr. Dong’s nomination in Dawn Valley North, suggesting that interference could have influenced the candidate ultimately elected to Parliament. Additionally, Hogue indicated strong indications of foreign involvement in Mr. Chws’s election in Steveston Richmond East, raising concerns about the impact of external narratives on electoral results.
Berthold, the Conservative deputy House leader, echoed Chong’s sentiments, underscoring the disparity between the report’s findings and the government’s previous assertions. He highlighted the discrepancy regarding the government’s handling of intelligence related to electoral interference, particularly in the nomination process. While the government had dismissed actionable intelligence, Hogue’s report indicated well-founded suspicions of foreign coercion and corruption, raising questions about the government’s inaction.
In response to queries about accessing classified information, both Chong and Berthold expressed confidence in the public report’s sufficiency to draw conclusions. They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in addressing foreign interference, asserting that the public-facing information provided ample insight into the government’s handling of the issue.
Regarding the nomination process, both MPs advocated for stricter rules to prevent foreign interference. They contrasted the Conservative Party’s stringent membership requirements with perceived weaknesses in the Liberal Party’s nomination process. Commissioner Hogue’s report hinted at further scrutiny of nomination rules in the second phase of the inquiry, suggesting ongoing concerns about vulnerabilities in the electoral system.
As the inquiry progresses, attention will remain focused on addressing systemic vulnerabilities and restoring public confidence in the electoral system.