Canada’s upcoming Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has held a meeting with current leader Justin Trudeau to discuss the transfer of power following Carney’s overwhelming victory in the Liberal party’s leadership election. As the country gears up for an imminent federal election, Carney is set to become the fresh face representing Canada in a bitter trade war with the United States, sparked by President Donald Trump.

Carney expressed his honor at receiving nearly 86% of the vote, one of the most decisive wins for a party leader in the country’s history. Despite his triumph, the former central banker emphasized the challenges ahead, stating he has “a lot of work to do” as Canada faces potential economic turmoil.

With the date for the general election expected to be set within days, Carney will need to call an election soon, as the situation prevents him from taking a seat in the House of Commons without one. Before the official transition, Trudeau is required to resign to the Governor General and Carney will then swear his oaths of office to form a cabinet.

Carney remains optimistic about the transition, stating that it will be “seamless and swift.” It is believed the election will take place on either April 28th or May 5th.

As a result of Trump’s recent imposition of a 25% tax on Canadian goods, Carney’s focus as Prime Minister is likely to be on managing the country’s strained relationship with its largest trading partner. Carney’s acceptance speech highlighted his determination to defend Canada’s independence, asserting that “Canada will never be part of America.”

With his ascension within the Liberal Party, Carney has boosted their chances of achieving victory in the upcoming election, gaining significant momentum in the process.

While still trailing in the polls, Carney’s rise in the party and Trudeau’s departure have revitalized the chances of a Liberal victory, which seemed highly unlikely just weeks ago.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/10/mark-carney-trudeau-trump