TORONTO (AP) — A government insider revealed on Thursday that newly appointed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney plans to call for a sudden election this coming Sunday. The source, who requested anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak publicly, disclosed that the election is slated for April 28.
The unnamed official disclosed that Carney will approach the governor-general on Sunday to request the dissolution of Parliament. The governor-general holds a vital constitutional and ceremonial role as the representative of Canada’s monarch, King Charles III.
Having been sworn in as Canada’s latest prime minister last Friday, Carney, a former central banker of two terms, steps into office amidst a backdrop of a trade dispute instigated by U.S. President Donald Trump and threats of annexation.
Carney, aged 60, takes over from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation in January but stayed in power until the Liberal Party selected a successor. The ruling Liberals had been on track for a significant electoral setback this year until Trump’s economic aggression altered the landscape. The President’s repeated suggestions of Canada joining the U.S. as its 51st state have shifted public sentiment, potentially benefiting the Liberal party and its fresh leader.
The persistent trade dispute and annexation warnings from Trump have stirred up anger among Canadians, leading to actions like booing the American anthem at sports events and reducing purchases of U.S. products. This surge in Canadian patriotism has given a boost to Liberal polling figures.
Despite being officially sworn in last Friday, Carney has not yet engaged in talks with Trump. However, he has expressed willingness to meet with the U.S. President if there is a demonstration of respect for Canadian sovereignty.
Well-versed in crisis management from his time as head of the Bank of Canada during the 2008 financial crisis and later as the first noncitizen to lead the Bank of England in 2013, Carney is committed to safeguarding Canadian workers and promoting economic growth as his primary objectives.
Canada’s federal Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, were heading towards a substantial victory in this year’s federal election until Trudeau’s resignation and Trump’s aggressive stance. Poilievre, aged 45, a vocal populist within the party, promises to prioritize Canadian interests, criticizing mainstream media, vowing to cut taxes, and defund Canada’s public broadcaster.
