Mark Carney, Canada’s recently elected Prime Minister and self-described “globalist,” has took a confrontational approach against U.S. President Donald Trump following his victory in the Liberal leadership contest. In his acceptance speech following his win, Carney stated that Canada’s tariffs on the United States will persist until the Americans “show us respect” and emphasized Canada’s readiness to respond if provoked. He also took a jibe at his main challenger for leadership by comparing Trump to Pierre Poilievre, suggesting that while Trump aims to divide and conquer, Poilievre’s plans would leave the country vulnerable to being taken advantage of.
Carney, with a background in central banking and finance, having previously been the governor of the Bank of Canada as well as the Bank of England, is no stranger to international economic diplomacy. He’s also notably served as the United Nations Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance. Despite his extensive international experience, he has been characterized by rivals as out of touch with the average Canadian. During a recent leadership debate, he could not give an estimate of the cost of a week’s worth of groceries, which has been pointed out as evidence of his disconnect from everyday citizens.
Carney addressed criticisms that he is “elitist” or too “globalist” by emphasizing his public service to Canadians throughout his career. Poilievre, the Conservative Leader, also attacked Carney over a photograph of him wearing expensive sneakers while playing hockey, suggesting a disconnection from the common citizen. Critics worry that Carney’s leadership could mirror that of Michael Ignatieff, the previously out-of-touch Liberal leader who lost in the 2011 election.
Academically, Carney was educated at Harvard and Oxford and holds British and Irish citizenships. He has started the process of renouncing both citizenships. Before his transition to politics, he accumulated a fortune, particularly at the Bank of England, where he earned $1.3 million. However, his current net worth remains undisclosed due to his assets being placed in a blind trust as per Canadian rules for public-office holders.
Carney’s approach and style are likely to be a focal point as the federal election campaign unfolds, with the Conservative Party aiming to portray him as a candidate disconnected from the population outside the political and financial elite.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/canadas-new-pm-trump-critic-mark-carney-accused-being-out-touch-common-man
