'Trump trying to break us': PM Mark Carney slams US as Liberals win Canada elections
Liberals' turnaround was largely fuelled by Trump’s aggressive statements during the campaign, including suggestions that Canada should become the 51st US state
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party has secured victory in Canada's federal election, showcasing a dramatic political comeback.
The Liberals looked headed for a crushing defeat until the American president started attacking Canada's economy and threatening its sovereignty, suggesting it should become the 51st US state.
Trump's actions infuriated Canadians and stoked a surge in nationalism that helped the Liberals flip the election narrative and win a fourth straight term in power.
After polls closed, the Liberals were projected to win more seats than the Conservatives in Parliament’s 343-seat House, although it was unclear if they would secure an outright majority.
Also read: Canada elections: Mark Carney’s Liberals maintain early lead, set to make a comeback
Carney's fiery speech
In his victory speech in Ottawa, Carney launched a stinging attack on Trump, accusing him of trying to undermine Canada's sovereignty.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also repeated his persistent warnings that America “wants our land, our resources, our country."
"President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us. That will never, ever happen," Carney declared to a cheering crowd. He added, "Our old relationship of integration with the US is now over. We are over the shock of the American betrayal. We must take care of each other now."
Cautioning Canadians, he further said, “Humility is also about recognising that one of the responsibilities of government is to prepare for the worst."
Trump’s impact on vote
The Liberals' turnaround was largely fuelled by Trump’s aggressive statements during the campaign, including suggestions that Canada should become the 51st US state.
Trump's truculence has infuriated many Canadians, leading many to cancel US vacations, refuse to buy American goods and possibly even vote early. A record 7.3 million Canadians cast ballots before the election day.
“The Americans want to break us so they can own us,” Carney said in the run-up to election day. “Those aren't just words. That's what's at risk.”
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who ran a campaign often compared to Trump’s style, struggled to overcome the backlash.
Many voters said they rejected Poilievre precisely because of his perceived alignment with the American president.
Also read: Amid tariff war, Canada PM Mark Carney says he'll speak with Trump soon
Tough road ahead
Carney confirmed that he plans to speak with Trump in the coming days to discuss relations between "two sovereign and independent nations," while pledging to strengthen ties with European and global partners.
If the US no longer wants to be at the forefront of world leadership, Canada will be, he said, adding, “This is Canada, we decide what happens here."
Carney also warned that although the victory was significant, Canada faces daunting challenges. "Major change is always concerning. But our strength lies in our unity," he said. Stressing Canada’s identity as a federation striving for goodness, he urged citizens to prepare for future uncertainties.
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“Because Canada is more than a nation, we are and always will be a federation. We’re not always perfect, but we strive to be good. We strive to do things because they’re right, not because they’re easy," he said.
