OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney and his governing Liberal Party secured victory in Canada’s national election on Monday, riding a wave of patriotic sentiment triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade threats and annexation remarks.
Projections by CBC and CTV News showed the Liberals on course to win the most seats in the 343-member parliament, ensuring Carney, 60, will stay on as prime minister.
Carney’s Comeback Amid Trade Tensions
With votes still being counted late Monday, the Liberals were projected to win at least 162 seats, while the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, 45, was on track for at least 149 seats.
Though it remains unclear if Carney will form a majority government or require support from smaller parties, the win marks a dramatic turnaround. In February, polls showed the Conservatives leading the Liberals by 20 points.
Carney’s campaign focused heavily on standing up to Trump’s aggressive trade policies. “Our old relationship with the United States is over,” Carney declared on the campaign trail Sunday. “We must recognize our new reality and fight for Canada’s economic future.”
Trump’s Threats Galvanized Voters
Trump’s controversial suggestion that Canada could become the “51st state” of the United States ignited a surge in national pride. On Monday, as Canadians voted, Trump posted on Truth Social encouraging Canadians to “elect the man” who would make Canada stronger by merging with the U.S.
Instead of weakening Carney’s campaign, Trump’s comments backfired. Voters rallied around Carney, viewing him as a protector of Canadian sovereignty.
Carney vowed to “fight Trump’s counter-tariffs” with retaliatory measures aimed at causing “maximum damage” to the U.S. economy while protecting Canadian industries.
Conservative Momentum Fades
Poilievre’s Conservatives led in polls for two years and initially hoped to capitalize on the widespread unpopularity of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. However, by election day, the Liberals surged ahead.
Conservative efforts to focus on domestic dissatisfaction lost momentum once Trump’s trade war dominated headlines. Many Canadians, concerned about economic independence and national identity, shifted their support to Carney’s Liberals.
A New Era for Canada-U.S. Relations
Carney’s victory signals a tougher Canadian stance against U.S. economic bullying. During his final campaign speech, Carney warned that America’s leadership in the global economy was ending and that Canada needed to adapt swiftly.
“We will not allow Canada to be reduced to a bargaining chip,” Carney emphasized.
The election also marks a personal triumph for Carney, a career economist and former banker, who leveraged his expertise to position himself as the leader Canada needs during uncertain times.
Future Uncertainty
Despite the electoral success, Carney faces significant challenges ahead. He must manage heightened tensions with the United States, stabilize Canada’s economy amid global market shifts, and navigate potential coalition politics if he falls short of a majority.
Still, Monday’s result demonstrates Canadians’ strong desire to protect their autonomy, industry, and future — even against their closest neighbor.
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