Canada's Election Heats Up: Trump, Tariffs, and the Battle for Leadership

In the final debate before Canada's April 28 election, Liberal leader and current PM Mark Carney faced off

against Conservative challenger Pierre Poilievre.

Carney, a political newcomer but seasoned economist, defended his record and distanced himself from former PM Trudeau.

Poilievre hammered Carney on affordability and the 'lost Liberal decade,' asking voters, 'Are we really going to elect

a Liberal government again?' Donald Trump’s threats to annex Canada and impose harsh tariffs have become a central

issue.

Carney warned, 'They want our land, our resources, our water...

and we’re all going to stand up against Donald Trump.' While Poilievre has tried to distance himself from

Trump, critics say his base overlaps with pro-Trump sentiment.

The 'Trump effect' has fueled a surge in Canadian nationalism—and Carney’s poll numbers.

Trump’s jabs at Canada have made culture and media a key election issue.

Carney pledged to boost CBC funding and protect Canadian identity, while Poilievre has vowed to defund the broadcaster.

A recent poll showed 91% of Canadians want to protect their culture from U.S.

influence.

The debate over national identity is now front and center.

With the Liberals and Conservatives dominating the polls, smaller parties like the NDP and Bloc Québécois are fighting

for survival.

NDP leader Jagmeet Singh tried to stand out with calls for expanded healthcare, while Bloc leader Blanchet focused

on Quebec’s interests.

But polls suggest both could lose significant seats.

Canadians praised the debate’s civility, but opinions were split.

Some saw Carney as a fresh, competent leader; others felt Poilievre had stronger answers on affordability.

Many voters expressed concern about Trump’s influence and the need for strong leadership.

As one voter put it, 'We need someone who can stand up to Trump and protect Canada’s future.'