Carney's Liberals Win Canadian Election Amid Trump Tariff Backlash

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party staged a political comeback, winning 169 electoral districts in Monday’s parliamentary election, just shy of a majority. The result, driven by public backlash to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats and remarks about annexing Canada, ensures the Liberals will form a strong minority government. Carney now aims to swiftly name a cabinet and reconvene Parliament within two weeks.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre lost his Ontario seat, despite previously leading in polls. Jagmeet Singh also stepped down after a significant defeat for the New Democrats. The shift in voter sentiment was attributed to Trump’s economic threats, Justin Trudeau’s earlier resignation, and a unifying "anybody-but-Conservative" momentum.

Carney vowed to pursue new security and trade ties with the U.S., asserting that the era of open trade led by America was over. In a call, Trump congratulated Carney but reiterated his push for a 25% tariff on Canadian cars and hinted again at making Canada the 51st U.S. state.

Tensions remain high with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who criticized the Liberals for damaging the province’s oil industry. Carney’s leadership, however, received support from global figures including EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Despite being a political newcomer, Carney's background as a former central bank chief helped convince voters he could negotiate effectively with Trump. Many Canadians, including Alberta voters, expressed confidence in his ability to handle U.S. pressures.

Minority governments in Canada often last under three years, but Trump’s threats stirred nationalist support that could sustain Carney’s leadership amid rising challenges in trade, climate policy, and national unity.