Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada, has officially been sworn in as the new prime minister of Canada following Justin Trudeau’s resignation.
Carney, who was elected leader of the Liberal Party last Sunday, has since formed a leaner cabinet with only 24 members, down from the previous 37.
During his first address as prime minister at Rideau Hall, Carney sought to distance himself from Trudeau’s lengthy tenure, promising a focused government ready for action.
“We are a very focused government, focused on action, and we will work immediately,” Carney stated. His administration is committed to addressing the pressing issues facing Canadians, including economic challenges exacerbated by global tensions.
Carney’s cabinet, notably smaller in size, reflects the current state of crisis in the country. Despite its size, Carney emphasized that the new ministers are experienced and senior, tasked with tackling the country’s most pressing concerns.
In his first remarks as leader, Carney emphasized that his government would work to shield Canadian workers from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs.
He also expressed his intention to stimulate the economy by prioritizing trade expansion with Canada’s allies, all while focusing on reducing government spending.
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With a federal election on the horizon, Carney will face challenges in maintaining a stable government, especially with eight former ministers, including Trudeau, opting not to run.
The new cabinet is already meeting, with Carney set to travel to London and Paris next week to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron.
At a press conference on Friday, Carney responded to comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who suggested that Canada would benefit from becoming the 51st U.S. state.
Carney swiftly dismissed the remark, calling it “crazy,” and added with a smirk that Canadians would head to the polls “definitely before November.”
Earlier on Friday, Justin Trudeau officially resigned as prime minister in a private meeting with Governor General Mary Simon. He also recommended that she appoint Mark Carney as the new leader.
Trudeau took to social media to bid farewell to Canadians, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
“Thank you, Canada — for trusting in me, for challenging me, and for granting me the privilege to serve the best country, and the best people, on earth,” Trudeau wrote.
