On Sunday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called for a federal election to be held on April 28, marking another significant event during a tumultuous and unpredictable period in the country. President Trump has imposed painful tariffs on Canada and threatened its sovereignty, causing tension between America’s closest ally and trading partner. Mr. Carney, a political newcomer with an extensive career in central banking and finance, became Canada’s Liberal Party leader on March 9 and was sworn in as prime minister on March 14, replacing Justin Trudeau, who had grown unpopular. The Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, are the Liberals’ main opponents. Mr. Trump’s aggressive stance toward Canada has been beneficial to the Liberals, as voters are drawn to Mr. Carney’s economics experience and international presence. Both the Conservatives and the Liberals enter the election period neck-and-neck. Other candidates include the Bloc Quebecois, led by Yves-François Blanchet, and the New Democratic Party, led by Jagmeet Singh. Canada has a first-past-the-post electoral system, with the country divided into 343 electoral districts. A majority government requires 172 seats, allowing for minority governments with the support of other parties. In the lead-up to the election, Mr. Carney will remain the prime minister and continue leading the country in “caretaker” mode, focusing on necessary business and avoiding major decisions. Both candidates will campaign across the country to secure support.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/23/world/canada/canada-election-carney-trump.html