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Aug 4, 2022 12:45 AM - The Canadian Press

Pierre Poilievre and Leslyn Lewis skip Conservative leadership debate; Jean Charest criticises the decision

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The Conservative leadership candidates who decided to show up for the last official debate of the race began by reflecting on what they've heard from Canadians throughout the contest. (Photo - The Canadian Press)

The Conservative leadership candidates who decided to show up for the last official debate of the race began by reflecting on what they've heard from Canadians throughout the contest.

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest started his opening statement by commending candidates Scott Aitchison and Roman Baber for appearing at the event.

Pierre Poilievre and Leslyn Lewis decided to skip, a decision Charest compared to a fish not wanting to swim in the ocean.

Charest says Conservatives feel tired of losing federal elections and pitched himself as the only candidate who could change that record.

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