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Canada PM Mark Carney to call for snap election on April 28: Reports

The announcement is anticipated on Sunday, despite the next election originally being scheduled for October 20.

Prime Minister Mark Carney following a swearing in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. (AP)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to call a snap federal election for April 28, the Globe and Mail reported Thursday, citing sources.

The announcement is anticipated on Sunday, despite the next election originally being scheduled for October 20. Carney is reportedly looking to capitalise on the Liberal Party’s recent surge in the polls, which began in January after US President Donald Trump ramped up threats against Canada and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation.

Carney, a former central banker with no prior political or campaign experience, secured the Liberal leadership two weeks ago by convincing party members he was best positioned to challenge Trump.

Also read | How will Canada’s next prime minister be chosen?

Carney has framed Trump’s new 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods as an existential crisis for the country, vowing that Canada will fight back against US economic pressure.

The tariffs, which exclude the automotive and energy sectors, have the potential to tip Canada’s already fragile economy into recession. Speaking to supporters, Carney made it clear that his government would stand firm against Trump’s aggressive trade policies.

“America is not Canada. And Canada never, ever, will be part of America in any way, shape or form,” Carney declared. “We didn’t ask for this fight. But Canadians are always ready when someone else drops the gloves. So the Americans, they should make no mistake, in trade as in hockey, Canada will win.”

Also Read | Who is Mark Carney, Canada’s new Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader?

Before Carney’s remarks, outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau energised the crowd, expressing pride in his government’s legacy but warning of the threats facing Canada.

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“This is a nation-defining moment,” Trudeau said. “Democracy is not a given. Freedom is not a given. Even Canada is not a given.”

He also invoked the “elbows up” mantra—coined by hockey legend Gordie Howe and recently revived in response to Trump’s threats to annex Canada—drawing thunderous applause from the audience.

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