Canada is heading toward a new political chapter as Mark Carney’s Liberal Party looks set to lead the next government.
The results mark a stunning turnaround for the Liberals, who just months ago were facing a steep decline in popularity.
The shift comes at a time of growing tension with the United States, where President Donald Trump has targeted Canada with harsh trade measures and divisive rhetoric. Carney used his victory speech to call on Canadians to stay united and resist outside pressure, warning that the US president is testing the country’s resolve.
Carney, a former central banker with no prior political office, took over the Liberal leadership from Justin Trudeau earlier this year. He campaigned as a calm, experienced figure ready to deal with economic challenges and foreign threats. He promised to strengthen Canada’s global ties and protect the country’s industries from tariffs and other pressures coming from Washington.
Celebrations broke out in Ottawa on election night as supporters welcomed the results. Still, as the vote count stretched past midnight, it remained uncertain whether the Liberals had won enough seats for a majority. If not, Carney would have to lead a minority government, which may face constant challenges from opposition parties.
The vote was closely split between the Liberals and the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. Once a frontrunner to become prime minister, Poilievre saw his momentum stall after Trump’s return to the White House and a shift in public focus. The issues that once gave the Conservatives an edge—such as housing, inflation, and crime—took a backseat to growing concerns about Canada’s relationship with its powerful neighbor.
The Conservatives had promised a sharp break from Liberal policies, focusing on tax cuts and loosening environmental rules. But the party now finds itself on the losing end, and Poilievre’s future as leader is unclear. He is even at risk of losing his own seat, according to projections.
Carney’s message of unity and resilience in the face of foreign pressure resonated with many Canadians, particularly after Trump began making provocative claims about Canada’s independence. Carney pledged to build more housing and limit immigration to ease strain on public services, while also strengthening ties with allies like the UK and EU to balance US influence.
Smaller parties like the New Democratic Party and Bloc Quebecois appear to have suffered in the final count, as voters focused on the two major parties best positioned to lead Canada through a turbulent time.
While the final seat tally will determine the exact shape of the new government, one thing is clear: Carney now faces the task of holding the country together while pushing back against pressure from its southern neighbor.