The leader of the Canadian Conservative Party, Pierre Poilievre, said this week that he only recognizes two genders - male and female - and that the government should not intervene in matters of gender identity.

In an interview with CP24 News, Poilievre was asked about President Donald Trump's signing of an executive order declaring that the United States will only recognize two genders, which are unchangeable.

Poilievre stated that he does not know more than two genders and that if the host has "any other gender they would like me to consider, you're welcome to tell me now."

He was then asked if he would request the U.S. to recognize the gender-neutral "X" marker available on Canadian passports, and Poilievre instead shifted the conversation to cost of living.

He mentioned that other politicians can discuss gender identity while he prioritizes ensuring that Canadians can afford daily necessities.

"My priority is to return control to people over their lives and to restore Canada's promise that anyone who works hard receives a good wage and a pension that buys food, gas, and affordable homes in safe neighborhoods. That is the promise we need for Canadians," said Poilievre.

He added, "If the Liberals want to talk about different gender designations they want to put on passports in the U.S., they can do that."

Objection from LGBTQ Groups

Helen Kennedy, executive director of the advocacy organization for LGBTQ rights, stated in response to Poilievre's remarks, "Denying the existence of transgender and gender-diverse individuals ignores decades of medical and psychological research, as well as the voices of those directly affected."

Poilievre had previously expressed support for banning transgender women from women’s sports and the idea of "parental rights."

Last February, Poilievre said, "Women’s spaces should be exclusive to females, not biological males." Since these spaces are generally not under federal government control, it is unclear what can be done.

Poilievre also stated that he does not support transgender children taking puberty blockers and that gender-affirming treatments should only be available to adults.