Canadian PM Mark Carney announces election to seek mandate against Trump

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for a federal election after meeting with Governor-General Mary Simon on Sunday to request the dissolution of Parliament.

“I’m asking Canadians for a strong, positive mandate to deal with President Trump and to build a new Canadian economy that works for everyone because I know we need change, big change, positive change,” Carney said, citing the ongoing trade war with the United States.

The election, set for April 28, will see Carney go up against Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre. Carney took over as Liberal leader and prime minister after Justin Trudeau resigned in January following declining poll numbers and internal cabinet dissent.

Recent polls initially indicated a Conservative lead, but the Liberals have seen a surge in popularity due to tensions with the US, including President Donald Trump’s trade policies and statements about Canada’s sovereignty.

“We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump’s unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,” Carney stated. “Our response must be to build a strong economy and a more secure Canada.”

He also accused Trump of attempting to weaken Canada, saying, “President Trump claims that Canada isn’t a real country. He wants to break us so America can own us. We will not let that happen.”

Poilievre, launching his campaign with a “Canada First” message, has positioned himself as the best leader to confront Trump. “Today, the Liberals are asking for a fourth term in power after swapping Justin Trudeau for his economic adviser and handpicked successor, Mark Carney,” he said.

Carney, a former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, has emphasized his financial expertise as Canada faces economic uncertainty. This election marks his attempt to secure a public mandate after taking office earlier this month.

Source: CNN