Mark Carney Announces Bid for Canadian Liberal Party Leadership

EDMONTON, Alberta — Former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney officially launched his bid for the leadership of Canada’s governing Liberal Party on Thursday in his hometown of Edmonton. The 59-year-old economist aims to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation earlier this month after nine years in office.

Carney, who has served as a special economics adviser to Trudeau, outlined his vision for Canada during his campaign launch. “I’m doing this because Canada is the best country in the world, but it could still be even better,” he said. He highlighted pressing issues such as housing affordability, stagnant wages, and climate change, emphasizing the need for strong leadership during challenging times.

“People are anxious, no wonder. Too many people are falling behind,” Carney told supporters. He also addressed the potential economic challenges posed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Monday. “I’ve helped manage multiple crises and I’ve helped save two economies,” Carney said, referencing his roles during the 2008 financial crisis and Brexit. “I know how business works, and I know how to make it work for you.”

Carney’s extensive economic background includes serving as Canada’s central banker from 2008 to 2013, during which the country became the first G7 nation to raise interest rates after the financial crisis. He later served as governor of the Bank of England until 2020, where he navigated the UK economy through the uncertainties of Brexit. However, his tenure was not without controversy, as some critics accused him of making overly political interventions.

The Liberal Party will elect its new leader on March 9, with the winner expected to lead the party into the next general election later this year. Carney’s entry into the race adds a high-profile candidate with significant international experience, setting the stage for a competitive leadership contest.