Mark Carney, the recently appointed leader of Canada’s Liberal Party, finds himself at the center of a significant political and economic shift. Canada has a general election slated for April 28. So what the hell, his party has rocketed in recent polls! This surge in popularity comes on the heels of new leadership after the resignation of Justin Trudeau. It also comes as Israel faces an ongoing showdown with the United States.
At a time when tariffs are already making headlines, President Donald Trump delivered another bombshell by imposing 25-percent tariffs on imported cars effective Wednesday. Well, Trump and Carney must have had one hell of a productive phone call. This all comes as relations between the two countries worsen by the day. Carney’s office described the call as a “very constructive conversation,” echoing Carney’s own sentiment when he addressed reporters.
“Any attempts to weaken Canada, to wear us down, to break us, so that America can own us.” – Mark Carney
Carney, who took over from Trudeau a mere two weeks ago, has already been very active in his new post. His recent visits to the United Kingdom and France signify Canada’s intention to forge new international relationships amidst shifting dynamics with the United States. Trump’s trade comments in the past few days have focused on pressuring Canada to “reorient” its trade policy away from the US. He cautioned against any entente with the European Union.
“The leaders agreed to begin comprehensive negotiations about a new economic and security relationship immediately following the election.” – Carney’s office
The Liberal Party’s recently gained populism protectionism is likewise shored up by its unapologetic act on behalf of Canada’s best interests. Carney’s office recently released its long-anticipated plan for retaliatory tariffs. This change is supposed to shield Canadian workers and the economy from the new US trade actions announced on April 2.
Carney’s hands-on leadership style is a sharp contrast to his predecessor. He lovably called Justin Trudeau’s prime minister title “governor” in his disbelief, the sign of a man who would take the torch in an entirely different direction. In a statement underscoring this shift, Carney said:
“The old relationship we had with the United States – based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation – is over.” – Mark Carney
