In a stunning political turnaround and after one of the most divisive elections in modern Canadian history, Mark Carney has been elected the 24th Prime Minister of Canada, leading the Liberal Party to a fourth consecutive term in government — a rare feat in the country’s parliamentary democracy.
The former central banker and first-time elected official defeated Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives in a high-stakes race defined by economic anxiety, U.S. trade tensions, and the return of Donald Trump to the American presidency. Despite falling just short of a majority, the Liberals secured 168 of 343 seats in Parliament, giving them a firm grip on power amid a fractured opposition and dramatically reshaping the landscape of Canadian politics. “This is a defining moment for Canada,” Carney told jubilant supporters from a stage in downtown Ottawa early Tuesday morning. “We will not be intimidated. We will not be bought. And we will never allow Canada to become a satellite state of anyone — not even our closest ally.”
His victory speech was fiery and defiant, sharply critical of President Trump’s aggressive trade policies and perceived attempts to pressure Canadian sovereignty. Carney promised to protect Canada’s economy and unity with what he called “overwhelming, positive force.”
Carney, 59, stepped into politics only months ago following the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Previously known for his work as the Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney was widely respected on the international stage — but untested in electoral politics. His campaign centered around his credentials as a “crisis manager,” presenting himself as a bulwark against Trump’s escalating tariff regime and a stabilizing force amid global economic uncertainty. The strategy resonated, particularly with voters concerned about the rising cost of living and Canada’s place in an increasingly volatile world order.
A New Foreign Policy Era
Carney’s first major challenge will be renegotiating the Canada-U.S. economic relationship. Trump has levied aggressive tariffs on Canadian aluminum, autos, and any goods that fail to meet conditions in the USMCA trade deal. Carney pledged to “fight back with everything we have” and hinted at forging new alliances in Europe and Asia to reduce dependence on the U.S. He also promised major investments in Canada’s military — particularly in the Arctic — and reforms to interprovincial trade, a longstanding economic barrier within Canada’s borders.
At Carney’s headquarters, young voters expressed cautious optimism. “He cares about jobs, the environment, and our future,” said Noah Alexander, 19, a first-time voter. Anna Price, also 19, echoed the sentiment, calling Carney “the kind of serious leader we need right now.” Yet veteran Liberal supporter Don Finless, 74, warned that the challenges ahead are immense. “He’s our best chance to bring Canada together. But now the hard work begins.”
World leaders also offered swift congratulations to Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday, signalling international recognition of a leadership change that comes at a turbulent moment for global trade, security, and democracy. Messages poured in from capitals around the world, with leaders expressing hope for renewed collaboration on key issues ranging from economic policy and climate change to defense and diplomacy from China, Netherlands, Australia, France, UK, Ukraine, etc.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has also conveyed his message to Carney.
“India and Canada are bound by shared democratic values, a steadfast commitment to the rule of law, and vibrant people-to-people ties,” Modi said. “I look forward to working with you to strengthen our partnership and unlock greater opportunities for our people.”
