Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, was elected as the new leader of Canada’s Liberal Party on Sunday, setting him up to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister.
Carney, a political novice, is the first individual to take on the role without previously holding an elected office. His ascension to the Prime Minister’s office comes after a contested leadership race against former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who resigned from the Trudeau administration citing disagreements with the PM over fiscal policies relating to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats.
Despite his lack of experience in elected office, Carney received 86% of the vote–131,764 of the 151,899 votes cast by nearly 400,000 Liberal Party members.
Trudeau’s resignation came amidst declining approval ratings and a looming general election, with Carney expected to call for elections soon.
Learn more about the all-new VT News and subscribe today!
Carney’s leadership comes at a critical time as Canada faces trade tensions with the US under Donald Trump, which has united various provinces against potential tariffs. Trump has also repeatedly mentioned making Canada America’s “51st State,” though the seriousness of such threats has been the subject of international debate.
Nevertheless, Carney used his electoral victory as an opportunity to talk tough against the Trump administration, as well as his political opposition in Canada.
“America is not Canada. And Canada never, ever will be part of America in any way, shape, or form,” Carney said in his victory speech. “We didn’t ask for this fight, but Canadians are always ready when someone else drops the gloves.”
“The Americans want our resources, our water, our land, our country,” he continued. “Think about it. If they succeed, they will destroy our way of life.”
Carney also argued that Conservative Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre’s response to Trump’s threats “will leave us divided and ready to be conquered.”
Carney’s extensive background in finance and central banking is seen as advantageous for navigating these challenges.
Carney and Trudeau are expected to meet on Monday to discuss the transition of power, with Carney and his new cabinet to be sworn in as early as Friday.
Connor Walcott is the lead writer for Valuetainment.com. Follow Connor on X and look for him on VT’s “The Unusual Suspects.”
Got a hot scoop or an idea for a story? Connect with the VT writers on Minnect!
Add comment