Leaders Clash Over Trump, Economy in Canada's Election Debate

Canada's first televised federal election debate was dominated by concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's escalating trade war, his imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, and provocative rhetoric about annexing Canada. Liberal leader and Prime Minister Mark Carney positioned himself as the candidate best equipped to handle Trump, citing his global economic credentials and contrasting himself with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre attacked the Liberals for economic mismanagement and argued that only his party could bring needed change and strengthen Canada's economy. Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh questioned the sincerity of Carney's break from Trudeau-era policies, with Blanchet arguing that a new leader does not mean a new Liberal Party. The heightened U.S.-Canada tensions have fueled a surge in nationalism, temporarily boosting Liberal poll numbers, though Carney faces challenges due to his weaker French skills and lingering skepticism about real change. Across the debate, the central issue was which leader could best defend Canadian interests and sovereignty in the face of Trump's aggressive policies.