Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has called a snap election set for April 28. This election comes amid rising tensions with the U.S., particularly over President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and his calls for Canada to become the 51st state. Carney, who succeeded Justin Trudeau after his resignation, faces Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, whose party has led in polls since 2023. However, recent surveys show a tight race.

In his campaign launch, Carney highlighted the U.S. trade war, emphasizing the need for a strong mandate to protect Canada’s sovereignty. He vowed to respond to Trump’s tariffs, which have hurt Canadian imports like steel and aluminum. Poilievre, meanwhile, criticized Carney’s ties to Trudeau’s Liberals, blaming them for Canada’s economic struggles and national vulnerability.

The election will also focus on domestic issues such as the high cost of living. Carney, a former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, has already made significant moves, including ending Trudeau’s carbon tax. Poilievre has promised a tough stance against the U.S. to protect Canada’s independence.

The campaign, lasting only five weeks, includes several other parties, with the NDP and Bloc Québécois also vying for support.