Mark Carney, leader of Canada’s Liberal Party, claimed victory early Tuesday in a hard-fought federal election, vowing to defend Canadian sovereignty in the face of what he described as “relentless provocations” from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The former central banker and first-time political candidate issued a defiant message in his victory speech, pledging that Canada would “never” yield to American pressure. “President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us,” Carney declared. “That will never ever happen.”
The Liberals have secured a fourth consecutive term in power, though it remains uncertain whether Carney will lead a majority or minority government. Projections from CTV point to a minority, while CBC has yet to make a definitive call. A party requires 172 seats to form a majority in the House of Commons.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre conceded defeat, acknowledging that Carney had secured enough seats to govern. “We will work with the new government to protect our sovereignty and put Canada first,” Poilievre said.
Carney, 60, entered politics following the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier this year amid party infighting and slumping approval ratings. His campaign was rapidly transformed by escalating tensions with the United States, after Trump imposed sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods and made controversial remarks about potentially annexing Canada.
The new prime minister has built his platform on economic independence, national unity, and a shift away from heavy U.S. reliance. He has pledged to invest in domestic manufacturing, energy development, and housing to shield Canada from American economic turbulence. “We have to look out for ourselves,” Carney said. “And above all we have to take care of each other.”
While Carney has left the door open to dialogue with Trump, he made clear that future talks would be conducted between “two sovereign nations,” signaling a break from past diplomatic norms. His first international trip as prime minister was to Europe, where he met with leaders in France and the U.K. to discuss strengthening military and economic ties.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Party suffered a significant setback, with leader Jagmeet Singh stepping down after losing his seat. Singh praised Carney’s leadership and emphasized the urgent need to stand up to the threats from the U.S.
Carney’s election marks a historic political shift at a time of heightened uncertainty, with Canada poised to navigate its future amid rising tensions with its closest neighbor.
