Mark Carney, the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, hugged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after winning the leadership race at an event in Ottawa on Sunday, March 9, 2025. The Canadian Press
Mark Carney, the new leader of the Liberal Party, met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday to discuss the transition of power. Carney assured reporters that the process would be "quick" and "seamless" but did not provide a specific timeline for when he would officially take over as prime minister.
Carney won the Liberal leadership race with a landslide victory, securing nearly 86% of the vote. He easily defeated three other candidates in all 343 ridings. Following his win, he met with Liberal MPs, who expressed renewed optimism about their electoral prospects.
Carney Meets With Trudeau
Carney’s first major task as leader was meeting with Trudeau at the prime minister’s office to discuss the transition. Trudeau has already stated that he does not plan to remain in a caretaker role for long and is ready to step aside in the coming days or weeks. However, he wanted to have a direct conversation with Carney before finalizing his resignation date.
After the meeting, Carney said they had a long discussion about key national issues, including Canada-U.S. relations, national security, and the transition process.
Once a transition date is set, Trudeau will officially resign by visiting the Governor General. Carney will then take the oath of office, announce his cabinet, and assume the role of prime minister. Speculation suggests this could happen as soon as Tuesday or Wednesday.
Optimism Among Liberal MPs
On Monday, Carney also met with Liberal MPs in Ottawa. Just a few months ago, the party was struggling in the polls, but now, many believe Carney's leadership will improve their chances in the next election.
“There is tremendous energy,” Carney said after the meeting. “This is a united party.”
MPs discussed the possibility of an early election. Some believe Canadians want a fresh mandate, especially with concerns about former U.S. President Donald Trump. One MP stated, “I think the country is asking for an election.”
Chrystia Freeland, who came second in the leadership race, expressed excitement about Carney's leadership and said she was confident they could win the next election.
Carney’s First Decisions
Carney has already made one key staffing decision. Former cabinet minister Marco Mendicino is expected to become his chief of staff, surprising some within the party. Mendicino was seen alongside Carney on Monday.
After his victory speech on Sunday, Carney attended a party with around 300 supporters. Before celebrating, he had a 45-minute briefing with top government officials to begin preparing for his new role.
Opposition Leaders Respond
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre wasted no time criticizing Carney, calling him “just like Justin” and saying he represents “more of the same.” He also attacked Carney’s economic record, linking him to Liberal policies that Poilievre claims have hurt Canadians.
The New Democrats also launched an attack ad, portraying Carney as someone who prioritizes the wealthy over everyday Canadians.
Carney, however, remains focused on the transition and leading his party into the next election.
