Mark Carney has been sworn in as the 24th Prime Minister of Canada, marking the end of Justin Trudeau’s tenure. On Friday, March 14, Carney officially took office after being elected as the leader of the Liberal Party on March 10. According to Canada’s constitution, the party leader automatically assumes the role of Prime Minister.
Carney takes office at a time of escalating trade tensions with the United States. In his first statement as Prime Minister, he addressed the 25% tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Canadian goods, calling it “one of the biggest crises of our time.” He stated, “We did not seek this trade war, but Canadians are always ready when challenged. Just as in hockey, Canada will win in trade battles as well.”
Following his re-election, Trump made controversial remarks, referring to Canada as the “51st state” and calling former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau “Governor Trudeau.” Carney firmly rejected these statements, saying, “America is not Canada, and Canada will never, under any circumstances, become part of the United States.”
According to reports from ABC News, Carney may announce a general election by the end of April.
Justin Trudeau, who first became Prime Minister in 2015, announced his resignation on January 6, citing declining popularity. March 14 marked his last day in office.