Canada Election Heats Up Amidst Trump Tariff Threats

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has warned that Canadians are facing their "biggest crisis" due to US President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs, and vowed to counter with "counter tariffs" and promote internal free trade within Canada's provinces and territories by July 1 if re-elected on April 28. Carney, who took over as prime minister from Justin Trudeau over a month ago, accused Trump of trying to "break" Canada and take control of its resources, and pledged to begin trade talks with the US administration immediately if his Liberal Party wins the election.

Canada's four major federal party leaders clashed in their second and final debate before the general election, with US President Donald Trump a notable off-stage presence. Liberal leader Mark Carney faced tough questioning from his opponents, who linked him to unpopular predecessor Justin Trudeau. The leaders discussed trade wars with the US, affordability, crime, and the environment, with Carney adopting a softer approach to Trump's tariffs. The debate highlighted starkly different policy choices, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre advocating for small government, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh pushing for stronger social programs, and Carney sticking to a centrist view. The tone remained cordial despite frequent crosstalk, with the leaders displaying Canadian civility. The smaller parties, including Singh's New Democrats and Bloc Québécois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet's party, fought for airtime and survival as they trail in the polls.

Canadian small businesses are reacting to US President Donald Trump's tariffs with a mix of resistance and patriotism. Many are promoting Canadian-made products, with some businesses renaming menu items and labeling products as "made in Canada." The Canadian Federation of Independent Business surveyed its members, finding that over half believe the US is no longer a reliable trading partner, and many are reevaluating contracts with US partners. Some Canadian businesses, such as the Liquor Control Board of Ontario, have stopped purchasing US products altogether. The tariffs have caused emotional distress and eroded trust between Canadian and US businesses, potentially damaging the long-standing trade relationship between the two countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and conservative challenger Pierre Poilievre clashed in a debate, with Carney saying the election is about who can succeed against President Donald Trump, citing Trump's tariffs and threats to annex Canada as the 51st state. Carney, viewed as the favored candidate, is seen as more equipped to handle tough negotiations with Trump, while Poilievre's "Canada First" message has been criticized for being too similar to Trump's "America First" agenda. The election has narrowed, with voters concerned about the economy and US relations backing Carney, and those worried about the cost of living supporting Poilievre.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney faced attacks from Conservative rival Pierre Poilievre at an election debate, but focused on the threat posed by US President Donald Trump, saying "We're going to stand up to Trump." Carney's Liberals are leading in most polls ahead of the April 28 vote, but the race remains tight. Poilievre accused Carney of being an extension of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and criticized the Liberals for weakening the economy, while Carney emphasized his private sector experience would help him in government and rejected suggestions of divided loyalties.