TORONTO (AP) —On Friday, former central banker and international economic leader Mark Carney officially became Canada’s 24th prime minister during a swearing-in ceremony.
He assumes power amid escalating U.S. trade tensions, annexation threats by President Donald Trump, and an approaching federal election, signaling a critical juncture for the nation.
Carney, 59, succeeds Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation earlier this year after leading the Liberal Party since 2013.
Trudeau remained in office until the party selected a new leader. Carney is widely expected to call a general election shortly, as he seeks to secure a new mandate for his leadership.
In his inaugural address, Carney emphasized Canada’s sovereignty and independence in the face of external pressures.
“We will never, ever, in any way, shape, or form, be part of the United States. America is not Canada,” he said. “We are very fundamentally a different country.”
Navigating U.S.-Canada Relations
Carney takes office at a time when Canada’s relationship with its largest trading partner is under strain. President Trump has imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum and has threatened broader tariffs on Canadian goods starting April 2. Trump has also made controversial remarks suggesting Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, rhetoric that has sparked outrage among Canadians.
Carney dismissed such annexation talk as “crazy” and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Canadian sovereignty. He expressed willingness to engage with Trump but emphasized the need for mutual respect. “The president is a successful businessman and dealmaker. We’re his largest client in so many industries,” Carney said. “Clients expect respect and working together in a proper commercial way.”
Carney, who previously led the Bank of Canada during the 2008 financial crisis and later served as governor of the Bank of England during the Brexit era, brings significant economic expertise to his new role. He stated that his top priorities would include defending Canadian workers against unjust trade actions and fostering economic growth.
A Shift in Leadership
Carney’s appointment marks a significant shift in leadership for the Liberal Party. The new prime minister has no prior experience in elected office but is widely respected for his economic acumen and international credentials. His Cabinet reflects a streamlined approach, with 24 members compared to Trudeau’s 37-member team.
François-Philippe Champagne has been named finance minister, taking on a critical role as Canada navigates its economic challenges. Mélanie Joly retains her position as foreign minister, while Dominic LeBlanc transitions to intergovernmental affairs. Chrystia Freeland, who lost to Carney in the Liberal leadership race, has been appointed minister of transport and internal trade.
Carney signaled an immediate departure from some of Trudeau’s policies, strongly suggesting that he would scrap the controversial carbon tax by the end of the day. He referred to his administration as “Canada’s new government” in an effort to distinguish himself from his predecessor.
Preparing for an Election
The looming federal election is expected to center on Canada’s ability to manage its relationship with the United States. The opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, have criticized the Liberals’ handling of economic issues and immigration. Poilievre urged Canadians not to grant the Liberals a fourth mandate, describing Carney as “just like Justin.”
However, Carney’s international reputation and experience in crisis management may bolster his appeal among voters. Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien expressed confidence in Carney’s abilities but acknowledged the challenges ahead. “There is no magic solution. This is not a normal situation,” Chrétien said. “We’ve never seen someone who changes his mind every five minutes as president of the United States.”
Strengthening Global Alliances
Carney prioritizes strengthening Canada’s global partnerships alongside U.S. relations, announcing visits to Europe this month. He plans meetings with France’s Macron and Britain’s Starmer, stressing, “We must diversify trade partners while boosting security.”
Meanwhile, rising Canadian frustration over Trump’s policies fuels boycotts of U.S. goods and protests at events where crowds jeer the American anthem, amplifying pressure for diplomatic action.
Nevertheless, Carney remains optimistic, citing shared business backgrounds and G7/G20 collaborations. “Though we’ll prioritize our nations,” he noted, “mutual solutions benefiting both remain achievable through persistent dialogue.”
A Nation on Edge
Trump’s trade war and annexation rhetoric have sparked widespread outrage among Canadians. Booing of the American national anthem has become common at NHL and NBA games, and many Canadians are boycotting American goods or canceling trips to the U.S.
Despite these tensions, Carney expressed optimism about finding common ground with Trump. “We will both be looking out for our countries but he knows, and I know from long experience, that we can find mutual solutions that win for both,” Carney said.
Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien praised Carney’s credentials but warned that there are no easy fixes for Canada’s current challenges. “This is not a normal situation,” Chrétien said. “We’ve never seen someone who changes his mind every five minutes as president of the United States.”
As Canada braces for what could be a tumultuous period in its history, all eyes are on Carney to see how he navigates these unprecedented challenges while seeking to unite a divided nation.
A New Chapter for Canada
As Mark Carney begins his prime ministerial tenure, he must confront dual challenges: uniting Canadians domestically while navigating complex global dynamics.
Yet his economic expertise and commitment to sovereignty position him to guide Canada through turbulence.
Given the likely federal election ahead, Canadians will scrutinize Carney’s leadership closely.
Voters must decide who can best steer the nation into its next chapter.
