Montreal, Canada — Canada’s new Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday moved to dissolve Parliament and set an election on April 28, less than two weeks after he took up his post, succeeding Justin Trudeau amidst rising tensions with the United States.

Carney stated that the country is facing “the most significant crisis of our lifetimes” due to President Trump’s “unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty,” emphasizing the need for “a strong, positive mandate to deal with President Trump” and to establish a new Canadian economy.

Although the election did not need to occur until October 20, Carney is apparently gambling on a quick vote benefiting his Liberal Party, which recently enjoyed a surge in support, partially due to Trudeau’s stepping down and ongoing threats from Trump.

Despite previous criticism for their handling of increasing housing costs and an affordability crisis, the Liberal party is now closely matched with the opposition Conservatives in recent polls.

Many Canadians support the Liberal government’s resolute response to Washington’s actions, which include tariffs and calls for Canada’s annexation, sowing anger and uncertainty.

According to several experts, the upcoming election will primarily revolve around which party leader is best suited to stand up to Trump and manage Canada-U.S. relations — a stance that could benefit Carney, who holds high approval ratings and is seen as the most capable to address Trump’s tariffs.

Carney, an economist and former central banker, has committed to continue Trudeau’s firm response to the levies, encompassing retaliatory measures against the U.S.

The Conservative party seems to be struggling to find a solid foothold, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, known for his aggressive rhetoric against Trudeau, failing to establish a clear narrative against the backdrop of Trump’s presidency.

Poilievre, however, claims to be resolute in safeguarding Canada’s interests amid tensions with the U.S.

As of Sunday, polling aggregates showed the Liberals and Conservatives virtually tied, while the New Democratic Party and the Bloc Quebecois trailed behind. This election will decide the 343 seats in Canada’s House of Commons, with the winning party typically forming the government, and its leader becoming prime minister.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/23/canadas-pm-carney-triggers-snap-election-vote-set-for-april-28?traffic_source=rss