Local Conservative MPs John Brassard (Barrie South–Innisfil) and Doug Shipley (Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte) say the federal government’s latest budget is “out of touch” with the needs of Canadians and small businesses. Both MPs confirmed they will vote against the Liberal budget, citing skyrocketing costs, broken promises, and a growing debt burden.
$20,000 in New Debt Per Household
The MPs note the2025 federal budget, tabled Tuesday by Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, includes a $78.3-billion deficit—well above the $60 billion promised during the last election. It also introduces $90 billion in new spending and adds $300 billion in debt over five years, which Brassard says amounts to $20,000 in new debt per household.
“Canadians are struggling to put food on the table and pay rent,” said Brassard. "Canadians are asking, ‘What are you doing to help me today?’ — and there is no answer.”
Carbon Tax, Small Business Concerns
Brassard and Shipley also argue a long-term carbon pricing schedule in the budget will raise food and energy prices and hurt small businesses and farmers.
“This hidden carbon tax will drive up costs for job creators and push investment out of Canada,” warned Brassard.
Shipley added that the federal debt now exceeds $1.35 trillion, with interest payments projected to hit $55.6 billion next year—more than the government collects in GST or transfers to provinces for healthcare.
Conservatives to Propose Affordability Amendment
The MPs say the budget fails to support small businesses or address the worsening drug crisis. In response, the Conservative Party plans to introduce an amendment focused on affordability, including:
- Lowering taxes
- Cutting wasteful spending
- Removing regulatory barriers to housing and growth
- Ending the industrial carbon tax
“Canadians are calling for relief," said Shipley. "This budget does
not deliver it.”
