Canada’s Liberal Party Prepares for Leadership Transition Amid Rising Nationalism

As Justin Trudeau steps down, leadership contenders Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland vie to redefine the party's direction in the face of U.S. tensions and domestic challenges.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation has triggered a leadership race within Canada's Liberal Party, with the winner to be announced on March 9.
Former central banker Mark Carney leads the race, with significant endorsements and funding, while former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland positions herself as a 'battle-tested' alternative.
U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs and threats against Canada have fueled a wave of nationalism, providing the Liberals with an opportunity to regain voter support after trailing in polls for over a year.
The Liberal frontrunners are adopting more conservative-leaning policies, such as abandoning the consumer carbon price and advocating for stricter immigration limits and military strengthening.
The next federal election, expected soon, will test the Liberals' ability to balance centrist policies with populist concerns, as Canadians weigh cost-of-living challenges against strained U.S.-Canada relations.