Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party achieved a significant political comeback in the latest parliamentary elections, securing 169 electoral districts and forming a strong minority government, just shy of the 172 needed for a majority. The victory was largely influenced by a public backlash against U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs and controversial suggestion of annexing Canada as the 51st U.S. state. Carney, who replaced Justin Trudeau earlier this year, successfully rallied left-of-center and traditional Liberal voters amidst rising tensions with Washington. Key opposition leaders, including Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, lost their seats, prompting leadership changes. Carney emphasized the end of Canada’s traditional open trade ties with the U.S. and called for tough new economic strategies. His priorities include forming a cabinet, reconvening Parliament, and addressing upcoming budgetary issues. Carney’s campaign emphasized his economic expertise in handling Trump’s aggressive trade policies, while Trump’s threats catalyzed a wave of Canadian patriotism that boosted Liberal support. European leaders congratulated Carney, who now faces both domestic challenges from provincial leaders and diplomatic confrontations with the U.S.
Source: Reuters
