Canadian MP Spreads Climate Misinformation Despite Intelligence Warnings

As wildfires rage across Canada, Conservative Member of Parliament Cheryl Gallant is actively spreading climate misinformation. This comes despite warnings from the Canada Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) that her conspiracy theories pose a significant risk by potentially radicalizing individuals and increasing the threat of serious violence.

Gallant, who represents the riding of Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke near Ottawa, has used her social media platforms to amplify rhetoric that casts doubt on climate change and its role in fueling wildfires. Her claims are not only inaccurate but also have the potential to harm public understanding and policy responses to environmental crises.

In a secret briefing made public in 2025, CSIS highlighted the dangers of Gallant's conspiracy theories. The June 2022 assessment warned that these narratives could radicalize Canadians and incite them to violence. The brief did not name Gallant directly but referred to her as part of a broader pattern of ideologically motivated violent extremism (IMVE).

“During the 2021 Canadian federal election, for example, a soon-to-be re-elected politician released a pamphlet claiming that the incumbent government would, if re-elected, ‘legislate rolling lockdowns in response to an ill-defined climate emergency,’” the briefing reads. “The continued belief in conspiracy theories across the IMVE milieu will likely remain a key driver of the increased threat of serious violence.”

Gallant's recent posts continue this pattern. In July, she posted a video to her Facebook page stating that “fires in northern Canada are not about global warming; they’re not about forest management. It’s Mother Nature.” Such statements ignore the overwhelming scientific consensus that climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of wildfires.

Amarnath Amarasingam, a professor of religion and political studies at Queen's University in Ontario who researches extremism and radicalization, explains that these types of CSIS threat assessments serve as early warnings. “They tend to be forward-facing,” he said in an interview with DeSmog. “It’s a signal internally and to other departments about things to watch out for.”

The Spread of Climate Misinformation

The proliferation of climate conspiracies on social media platforms is not unique to Canada. Globally, misinformation campaigns have sought to undermine scientific consensus and delay action on environmental policies. These efforts can have severe consequences, from reduced public support for climate initiatives to increased polarization and potential violence.

Gallant’s role in spreading these theories is particularly concerning given her position as an elected official. Her platform amplifies her message, reaching a broader audience and potentially influencing policy debates. The CSIS report underscores the importance of addressing this issue not only through social media regulation but also through public education and robust fact-checking initiatives.

In July, Gallant’s Facebook post about the wildfires in northern Canada received thousands of views and comments. Her video claimed that the fires were a natural occurrence, dismissing the role of climate change. Such narratives can create confusion and erode trust in scientific institutions, making it harder to implement effective environmental policies.

Why It Matters

The spread of climate misinformation by elected officials like Cheryl Gallant has far-reaching implications for public health, safety, and environmental policy. As wildfires continue to ravage communities across Canada, the need for accurate information and evidence-based action becomes even more critical.

Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Social media platforms must take responsibility for curbing the spread of harmful content. Governments and educational institutions should prioritize public awareness campaigns that highlight the scientific consensus on climate change. There is a need for stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure that elected officials are held responsible for spreading misinformation.

The stakes are high. Climate change poses one of the most significant threats to our planet, and delaying action based on unfounded conspiracy theories could have devastating consequences. It is essential that we work together to promote accurate information and support policies that protect both our environment and our communities.