Carney Wins Canada Election, Faces Trump Trade War
Prime Minister Mark Carney has claimed victory in Canada’s federal election, pledging to push back against U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies and threats of annexation. While his Liberal Party is projected to win the most seats, it remains unclear whether Carney will secure a majority government.
International leaders swiftly congratulated Carney, signaling hopes for continued cooperation:
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof expressed eagerness to maintain "close cooperation" and invited Carney to the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon highlighted shared priorities, saying he looked forward to collaboration.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the "strong and growing" bond between Canada and Europe, vowing to defend democratic values and free trade.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer commended Carney’s leadership, emphasizing future work on defense and trade.
In Canada, the prime minister is chosen by Parliament, not directly elected. The party that commands a majority in the House of Commons—either alone or through alliances—forms the government. Final results are expected in the coming days.
A Shift in Political Fortunes
The election marks a dramatic turnaround for the Liberals, who trailed the Conservatives by double digits earlier this year. Carney, a former central banker who took over from Justin Trudeau in January, capitalized on a surge in nationalist sentiment following Trump’s aggressive rhetoric toward Canada.
Trump has repeatedly targeted Canada, suggesting annexation, imposing tariffs, and mocking Trudeau as "Governor Trudeau." Carney has framed the U.S. relationship as fundamentally altered, stating in March: "The old relationship based on economic integration and security cooperation is over."
What Comes Next
Carney is expected to name a cabinet within two weeks and recall Parliament shortly after. Key priorities include middle-class tax cuts and navigating trade talks with the Trump administration.
Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre acknowledged "hard lessons" after his party fell short of expectations. In a tight race for his own seat in Ontario, he trails Liberal challenger Bruce Fanjoy by 2.7%. Smaller parties also faced setbacks:
The Bloc Québécois is projected to win 23 seats.
The NDP, led by outgoing Jagmeet Singh, is set for just 8 seats.
The Greens secured only one seat, with co-leader Jonathan Pedneault losing his bid.
As vote counting continues, the Liberals are projected to win 161 seats—short of the 172 needed for a majority. If confirmed, Carney will rely on opposition support to govern.