Mark Carney Wins Liberal Leadership as Canada Braces for Federal Election

By Hope Zoumbra and Ghazal Fatima

Mark Carney has been elected as the new leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and is set to become the country’s next prime minister. He won with 85.9% of the vote, defeating Chrystia Freeland, Karina Gould, and Frank Baylis. With his victory, a federal election is widely expected to be called soon, as Carney has promised a swift transition of power.

While Canada prepares for an election, a recent survey conducted in Seneca Polytechnic and York University among 100 students revealed that most students are disengaged from politics. The survey found that 70% of students do not pay much attention to political affairs and are unlikely to vote. Another 20% were uncertain, while only 10% expressed strong interest in politics and the upcoming election.

“I don’t really care much about politics,” said first-year college student Omar Khalid. “I feel like politicians don’t really make a difference in my daily life, so I don’t see the point in following it.”

However, some students see voting as an important civic duty. “I think it’s important for young people to have a say in their country’s future,” said Journalism student Miriam Bosiljevac. “I will be voting for the Liberal Party. With Trump making threats against Canada, I believe they are the best option to handle these challenges.”

Not all students were willing to disclose their political preferences, but they still showed engagement. “I’m interested in politics and will definitely vote,” said Elizabeth Fajardo, a computer engineering student. “But I prefer to keep my choice private.”

Carney takes leadership at a critical time, as Canada faces economic and diplomatic tensions. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian goods (excluding auto and energy sectors), raising concerns about a trade war. Carney has firmly stated that “Canada will never ever be part of America” and plans to maintain retaliatory tariffs if necessary. Domestically, his administration will also have to address rising housing costs, economic recovery, and defense spending to meet NATO targets.

As Carney prepares for his new role, Canadians including young voters will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political future. However, with many students uninterested in politics, it remains to be seen how much the youth vote will impact the next election.