Canada's Election Showdown: Carney vs. Poilievre Amid Trump Tensions

Canada’s federal election is just days away, and the spotlight is on Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney and

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.

Carney, a political newcomer but former central banker, has surged in the polls since replacing Justin Trudeau.

Poilievre, a career politician, is pushing a populist message focused on affordability and small government.

But Carney’s strong stance against Donald Trump’s threats to Canada has reshaped the race.

Donald Trump has loomed large in this election, threatening tariffs and even suggesting Canada become the 51st U.S.

state.

Carney has used this to his advantage, warning voters: “They want our land, our resources, our water.

I’m ready to stand up to Trump.” Poilievre, meanwhile, has tried to distance himself from Trump, but critics

say his policies echo American-style conservatism.

The English-language debate was civil but intense.

Carney emphasized leadership in crisis, while Poilievre hammered the Liberals’ record.

Jagmeet Singh of the NDP struggled to stand out, and Bloc leader Blanchet focused on Quebec’s interests.

Voters praised the debate’s substance, with some calling Carney a 'breath of fresh air' and others saying Poilievre

was the 'clear winner.' Quebec could be the kingmaker in this election, with 78 seats up for grabs.

The Bloc is losing ground to the Liberals, while the NDP and Greens are fighting for survival.

Singh’s party could drop from 24 to just 5 seats.

Meanwhile, Blanchet is pushing hard to keep Quebec’s voice strong in Ottawa.

Poilievre has pledged to defund universities promoting 'woke ideology,' echoing Trump’s moves in the U.S.

Critics warn this threatens academic freedom.

The Canadian Association of University Teachers called it 'alarming,' while Poilievre insists it’s about protecting free speech and

fighting antisemitism.