Canada’s PM Mark Carney Calls Snap Election Amid Rising Tensions with US
Montreal, Canada – March 24, 2025 – Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney has officially dissolved Parliament and called for a snap federal election on April 28. He cites urgent concerns over Canada’s economic and political ties with the United States under President Donald Trump.
This expected move comes less than two weeks after Carney assumed office, following Justin Trudeau’s resignation. The leader of the Liberal Party is seeking a stronger mandate to address growing economic and diplomatic tensions, particularly in response to Trump’s trade policies and rhetoric toward Canada.
Carney Seeks Stronger Mandate to Counter Trump’s Policies
Speaking to reporters in Ottawa after meeting with Governor General Mary Simon to request Parliament’s dissolution, Carney emphasized the gravity of the situation with the US. He stated, “We are facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes because of President Trump’s unjustified trade actions and his threats to our sovereignty.” He further stressed the need for “big, positive change” in the country’s economic policies, vowing to protect Canada from US-imposed tariffs and economic instability.
Rising US-Canada Tensions Drive Election Strategy
The election, originally scheduled for October 20, has been moved up by nearly six months. Analysts believe Carney’s decision to call an early election is a strategic attempt to capitalize on growing national support for the Liberal Party, following the escalating trade conflict with the United States.
In recent months, President Trump has intensified his economic offensive against Canada, imposing steep tariffs on key Canadian exports. Additionally, Trump has controversially suggested annexing Canada, a proposal that has sparked widespread public outrage and heightened Canadian nationalism.
The Liberal government’s firm stance against Washington has resonated with voters, helping the party recover from previous criticisms regarding housing and affordability issues. While the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, once led by double digits in the polls, recent surveys indicate a tighter race between the two major parties.
Election Becomes a Referendum on Canada-US Relations
According to political experts, the key issue in the upcoming election will be which leader is best equipped to handle Trump and his aggressive trade policies. Lisa Young, a political science professor at the University of Calgary, remarked, “Carney wants to call the election while he still has this kind of momentum as a new leader — and while the shock of the Trump administration is still front of mind for Canadians.”
An Ipsos poll released last Thursday indicates that Carney holds the highest approval rating among federal party leaders, with many Canadians viewing him as the most capable of managing US-Canada trade relations.
What’s Next?
With just over a month until election day on April 28, political parties are expected to intensify their campaigns, focusing on economic stability, trade policies, and national security. The Liberals will likely position themselves as Canada’s best defense against Trump’s policies, while the opposition Conservative Party will advocate for a stronger economic approach that reduces reliance on the US market.
As tensions continue to rise, this snap election could reshape Canada’s political landscape, determining the country’s approach to diplomatic relations, economic stability, and national sovereignty in the face of US pressure.
