Mark Carney, the newly elected leader of Canada’s ruling Liberal Party, has pledged a swift and seamless transition after meeting outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Reuters reported.
Following his landslide leadership victory, Carney is expected to formally assume office by the end of the week.
Liberal members backed Carney as the leader best positioned to challenge US President Donald Trump, whose administration has imposed tariffs and threatened economic penalties on Canada.
Carney refrained from commenting on US relations, stating that he would address the issue once he officially becomes prime minister.
Trump’s recent tariff measures have sparked outrage in Canada, with provincial leaders retaliating. Ontario announced a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to US states including New York, Michigan, and Minnesota.
Premier Doug Ford condemned the tariffs, calling them “a disaster for the US economy” and warning that Canada would not hesitate to escalate countermeasures if necessary.
Carney reaffirmed his stance on tariffs, vowing to maintain Canada’s retaliatory levies until the US takes a more respectful approach. “My government will keep our tariffs on until the Americans show us respect,” he stated.
Despite his strong mandate, Carney’s tenure may be short-lived. Without a parliamentary seat, he faces mounting pressure to call an election, with opposition parties threatening to bring down the government at the first opportunity.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticised Carney’s background in finance, accusing him of prioritising corporate interests over Canada’s economic future.
“Carney will sell out Canada for his personal profit… he’s done it his entire time as a corporate insider,” Poilievre claimed.
Carney’s leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, with Canada navigating a volatile economic landscape and renewed political tensions with the US.
His ability to maintain public support and manage the ongoing trade dispute will be crucial in the months ahead.
