In a powerful victory speech following a dramatic election comeback, Prime Minister Mark Carney warned Canadians of growing threats from across the border, declaring, “Trump is trying to break us so America can own us.”
Carney’s Liberal Party pulled off a stunning win in Canada’s federal election Monday night, fueled by rising Canadian nationalism and fears sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive rhetoric.
Trump had recently floated the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state and slapped heavy tariffs on Canadian exports—moves that outraged citizens and flipped the momentum in Carney’s favor.
“This is not just about politics anymore. It’s about sovereignty,” Carney told cheering supporters in Ottawa. “We’re done being bullied. Canada stands united.”
The Liberals, once trailing badly in the polls, surged late as Trump’s threats rallied voters to defend Canadian values. Whether Carney will lead with a majority or minority government is still being determined.
The opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, had hoped to capitalize on economic frustrations and rising living costs. But Trump’s interference may have backfired.
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Poilievre, whose campaign echoed Trump-style populism, struggled to distance himself from the American president’s remarks. In his concession speech, he promised to “keep fighting for Canadians.”
Many voters said Trump’s comments were the final straw.
“I was on the fence,” said Toronto voter Reid Warren, “but when Trump said we should be the 51st state? That made it personal.”
Carney now faces a daunting road ahead: navigating a hostile relationship with the U.S., responding to a cost-of-living crisis, and possibly working with smaller parties in Parliament to govern.
The New Democrats lost ground, and their leader Jagmeet Singh stepped down, while the Bloc Québécois gained seats but remains regionally focused.
Despite the uncertain future, Carney’s message was clear: “We will not be bought, bullied, or broken.”
