Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is raising doubts about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s ability to handle negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump, given the absence of a finalized trade agreement between the two countries that would provide Canada with tariff relief. Poilievre, in an interview with CBC’s Rosemary Barton Live, expressed disappointment that Carney has not fulfilled his promises made during the previous election campaign.
Carney’s primary focus during the campaign was on engaging with the U.S. administration. Efforts were being made to reach a tariff agreement until Trump unexpectedly terminated the trade discussions following an anti-tariff advertisement by the Ontario government featuring former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s words. Trump mentioned that Carney apologized for the ad, which was withdrawn from airing after being broadcast over the weekend on American networks during the World Series.
Although Trump stated that he has a good relationship with Carney, he clarified that the advertisement was inappropriate. The Prime Minister’s Office has not confirmed whether Carney personally apologized for the commercial. Trump also indicated that there are no intentions to resume trade talks with Canada.
Poilievre emphasized the importance of strengthening the economy to establish Canada’s position of influence. He highlighted his commitments to advancing significant projects but refrained from speculating on the effectiveness of his approach compared to Carney’s, noting that he is not currently in the prime minister’s role.
Poilievre criticized Carney for what he perceives as foreign policy failures impacting domestic matters. The full interview with Poilievre will be broadcast on Rosemary Barton Live on Sunday at 10 a.m. ET.
