Mark Carney Sworn in as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister, Succeeding Justin Trudeau

Mark Carney Sworn in as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister, Succeeding Justin Trudeau

Toronto, Canada — Amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war, threats to turn Canada into the “51st state,” and the possibility of a federal election, Mark Carney was sworn in as Canada’s new Prime Minister on Friday. The former central bank governor succeeds Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation in January.

The 59-year-old Carney stated that he is willing to meet with Trump if the U.S. leader respects Canada’s sovereignty. However, he clarified that he has no immediate plans to visit Washington. Trump recently imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum and has threatened to implement widespread tariffs on all Canadian goods by April 2. Additionally, Trump referred to the Canada-U.S. border as an "imaginary line" and suggested economic pressure on Canada. Carney dismissed this notion as “madness.”

A Political Newcomer with Experience

Although he lacks direct political experience, Carney served as the head of the Bank of Canada during the 2008 financial crisis and was the first foreign governor of the Bank of England in 2013. His role in handling the impact of Brexit was widely praised. A former Goldman Sachs executive, Carney’s appointment as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister has drawn criticism from opposition Conservatives, who labeled him as "Justin Trudeau’s mirror image." However, Carney has already distinguished himself by scrapping Trudeau’s consumer-level carbon pricing, a key element of the former prime minister’s climate policy.

New Cabinet and Foreign Relations

Carney has formed a smaller 24-member cabinet (13 men, 11 women), compared to Trudeau’s 37-member team. François-Philippe Champagne has been appointed Finance Minister, the second-highest position in the government. Mélanie Joly takes on the role of Foreign Minister, while Chrystia Freeland—who lost to Carney in the Liberal leadership race—has been named Transport Minister.

Election Strategy and Opposition Challenges

Speculation suggests that Carney may call a federal election within days or weeks. Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre argued that “the Liberals do not deserve a fourth term. Carney is just like Justin.” In response, Carney remarked, “Negativity won’t lower rent, reduce market prices, or win trade wars.”

Carney on the International Stage

Carney is set to visit Europe soon to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He emphasized the importance of strengthening trade partnerships and security ties.

Former Prime Minister’s Warning

Former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien commented, “Carney is internationally respected, but dealing with an unpredictable leader like Trump will not be easy.”