By Gill Bikram Singh 
Mark Carney has won the race to become Canada’s next prime minister, promising to take on U.S. President Donald Trump in an escalating trade battle. The former central bank chief secured a landslide victory in the Liberal Party leadership contest, replacing Justin Trudeau.
Carney, 59, used much of his victory speech to criticize Trump, who recently imposed tariffs on Canada and even suggested making it the 51st U.S. state. “Americans should make no mistake: In trade, as in hockey, Canada will win,” he declared to an enthusiastic crowd.
Landslide Victory and Trudeau’s Exit
Carney, who has never held elected office before, won 85.9% of the vote, defeating former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. His win comes after Trudeau’s resignation earlier this year following nearly a decade in office. Trudeau faced growing unpopularity due to economic struggles, including a housing crisis and rising living costs.
The leadership race energized Liberal supporters, with over 150,000 votes cast and loud celebrations in Ottawa as results were announced.
Trade War with Trump
Carney takes office at a critical time, as tensions with the U.S. rise over trade policies. Trump recently slapped a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, though the U.S. later eased restrictions for products that comply with existing trade agreements. Canada responded with retaliatory tariffs, with Trudeau accusing Trump of trying to weaken Canada’s economy.
In his speech, Carney condemned Trump’s “unjustified tariffs,” vowing to stand firm. “We can’t let him succeed,” he said, to loud boos from the audience. He added that Canadian tariffs on U.S. goods would remain until the U.S. “shows us respect.”
Election Challenges and Conservative Opposition
Carney now faces a political showdown with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, as Canada heads toward a likely snap election. The Liberals, initially trailing far behind in polls, have gained ground following Trump’s trade threats. Some surveys now show a close race between Carney’s Liberals and Poilievre’s Conservatives.
Poilievre’s party has criticized Carney, accusing him of being a continuation of Trudeau’s policies. Conservatives also attacked him over his past role at Brookfield Asset Management, alleging he was involved in moving the firm’s headquarters from Toronto to New York—claims Carney denies.
Canada’s Future Under Carney
Carney also addressed national security concerns, promising to “secure our borders”—a key demand of Trump, who has accused Canada of failing to stop the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the U.S.
In an emotional farewell speech, Trudeau warned that Canada faces an “existential challenge” from its southern neighbor. Carney echoed this sentiment, saying Canada must stand united in the face of U.S. pressure.
“These are dark days,” Carney admitted. “But we must never forget the lesson: We have to look after ourselves and look out for each other.”