Houston says he's 'focused on Nova Scotia' amid rumours he's seeking Poilievre's job

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston seemed to be downplaying rumours that he's jockeying to become the next leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, but acknowledged Wednesday that he's taken lessons to learn French — a nod to the bilingualism that's expected of federal party leaders.

"No, I'm focused on, well, I'm focused on Nova Scotia," he said at a media availability in Halifax when asked if he's interested in the federal leadership.

When pressed to clarify he said, "Oh, I'm focused on Nova Scotia, you guys, that's pretty clear."

Speculation about Houston's political ambitions started swirling last week when he posted a highly produced video on social media in which he rattles off a long list of local accolades and points of pride. He ends it saying, "My name is Tim, and I am Nova Scotian."

He released the video the day before Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre made his sole campaign stop in the province. Poilievre held a rally in Trenton, N.S., which is just minutes from Houston's own provincial riding, and Houston did not attend.

Houston said the timing of the video release was "a pure coincidence," and the intent of the video was to promote Nova Scotia and evoke provincial and national pride.

Sources have described Houston and Poilievre having a frosty relationship over the past six months, although Houston said Wednesday he wouldn't go so far as to call it a "rift."

He said problems between the two leaders' teams began during the Nova Scotia general election campaign last fall, but was not specific. He said there was "something that happened there that kind of, probably had some ramifications on both sides."

When a reporter asked Houston if he's taken French lessons he replied, "un peu"  — French for "a little" — with a smile.

Even if Houston wants the top job with the Conservative Party, it is not currently available. Poilievre lost his seat this week, but was unequivocal in his speech on election night that he intends to continue as leader.

Some Conservatives have already lent public support for him staying on.

Houston was critical of the Conservative campaign and defeat.

"After four consecutive losses to the Liberal Party, I think it's time for them to do some soul-searching. I hope they do," Houston said.

But he wouldn't comment on Poilievre's leadership, saying it'll be up to the party to decide. He has previously highlighted that he is not a member of any federal party and he regularly makes the distinction between Nova Scotia Progressive Conservatives and federal Conservatives.