With the election of Mark Carney as the new federal Library Party leader, the board is now set for what is sure to be an historic federal election.
As Carney competes with Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre in the Captain Canada sweepstakes, both men come before voters with baggage. Carney the political neophyte, wealthy financier and banker accused of hiding the extent of his fortune from Canadians, and Poilievre the career politician better known for his scathing attacks rather than his statesmanship.
While Poilievre still enjoys some advantage in the polls, the Conservative party’s lead has shrunk considerably, and the party is desperately trying to pivot toward “Canada First,” and away from its “Canada is broken” messaging.
Canadians are angry, in fact they are enraged, and the party which can capitalize on that patriotic sentiment best will likely come out on top in the upcoming federal election.
However, it isn’t only going to be about who can tap into Canadians’ outrage the best– it’s also about who Canadians think is the most competent to help navigate through the massive restructuring of the Canadian economy which is yet to come as we adjust to a post-Free Trade world. Carney has undeniable credentials, and a decided advantage, particularly in eastern Canada, having helped steer Canada through the 2008 financial crisis and later our UK cousins through Brexit.
However, Carney also has the baggage of being a strong advocate for Trudeau's unpopular carbon tax and restrictive environmental policies, despite saying he will cut the tax on his first day as Prime Minister. Sometimes you just can’t have it both ways, and it is guaranteed Poilievere’s sharp political instincts will push Carney’s disadvantage on that front.
This upcoming federal election will be the most crucial in our lifetimes, and both the Liberals and Conservatives better bring their A games if they want to win the strong mandate needed to deal with an unpredictable and hostile Trump.
