PM Carney Calls Snap Election for April 28 Amid U.S. Trade Threats

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a snap federal election for April 28, citing the urgent need for a strong mandate to address escalating trade tensions and sovereignty threats posed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Carney emphasized that the current situation represents a significant crisis, declaring that Trump's trade actions and rhetoric aim to undermine Canada as a nation. The election campaign will last five weeks, during which Carney will face opposition from Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, among others, as recent polls indicate a competitive race with the Liberal Party currently enjoying a slight edge in public support. Political analysts suggest that Carney's strategy focuses on positioning himself as a defender of Canadian sovereignty against Trump's claims. The election was called ahead of schedule, originally set for October, reflecting Carney's intention to capitalize on his recent leadership momentum. This political maneuver comes amid a backdrop of tariffs on Canadian goods and a growing sense of nationalism within Canada.