The creation of new federal political boundaries — which include the elimination of Don Valley West and the appearance of a riding known as University-Rosedale — is likely to favour the Conservative Party in the general election expected this year. Ipsos Reid has finished a poll which says the CP leads the Liberals nationally, including in Ontario. In addition, the new boundaries coming in 70 ridings move the Conservatives closer to a majority government, said Ipsos Reid’s John Wright. “If you took the 2011 numbers and applied them to the new riding situation immediately — without having a campaign or anything — the Conservatives already gain 22 extra seats as a result of that,” Mr. Wright told the National Post. The popular support numbers are Conservative 35%, Liberals 31% and NDP at 24%, down seven points since the 2011 federal election. According to Mr. Wright, the increased support for the Conservative party could be reflective of the shaky economy as the price of oil continues to drop. Mr. Harper could also be benefiting from a vocal stance against terrorism. “Two key planks that always emerge as a strong suit for the Conservatives over the other two parties are the economy and national security,” Mr. Wright said. Harper’s personal approval rating is at 49% – the highest since March 2012.
