On Sunday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney officially announced the beginning of a federal election, having sought approval from Governor-General Mary Simon to dissolve Parliament. This highly awaited move positions the election for April 28, where Carney will face Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, his main competitor.
Carney is campaigning for a “strong, positive mandate” to navigate the challenges posed by US President Donald Trump, particularly in light of ongoing trade tensions. He stated, “We need change,” highlighting the importance of building a Canadian economy that is inclusive and resilient to external pressures. The call for an election arises after Carney took over the Liberal leadership following Justin Trudeau’s resignation amid declining popularity and internal issues within the party.
Recent polling has shown the Conservatives holding a significant lead, but the Liberal Party has seen a resurgence in support following heightened trade tensions with the US. Carney described the situation as the “most significant crisis of our lifetimes,” attributing it to Trump’s unjustified trade actions and threats towards Canada’s sovereignty. He emphasised a commitment to creating a strong economy and ensuring Canada remains secure, asserting, “President Trump claims that Canada isn’t a real country. We will not let that happen.”
Poilievre, who launched his campaign on a “Canada First” agenda, has framed Carney as unprepared to handle relations with Trump. In a pre-election briefing, he cautioned voters against voting for the Liberals for a fourth consecutive term, suggesting that Carney’s leadership is simply a continuation of Trudeau’s policies. Poilievre has vowed to champion Canada’s independence and strengthen its position in dealings with the US.
Carney accused Poilievre of echoing Trump’s sentiments, particularly regarding proposed cuts to Canada’s foreign aid budget. Having recently been sworn in as prime minister, Carney aims to garner public support for his vision of an economically stable Canada. Drawing from his extensive background as a former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, he underlined the importance of urgent economic reform as Canada navigates uncertain times.
During a press conference, Carney shared his objective to remove internal trade barriers and unify the Canadian economy as a way to bolster growth. He proposed a middle-class tax cut designed to benefit dual-income families and expressed the need for Canada to diversify its trade relationships, reducing dependence on the US. Urging for swift action, Carney reiterated the need to build a robust economy for Canada’s future.