Sault Ste. Marie, April 25 – Liberal Leader Mark Carney has declined to provide further details about his conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, following the revelation that Trump had proposed the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state. The conversation, which took place on March 28, was initially reported to have focused on Trump’s respect for Canada’s sovereignty. However, the omission of the 51st state suggestion raised questions about the substance of their discussion, especially since Carney has positioned himself as the candidate most capable of dealing with Trump’s actions.
During a campaign stop in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., Carney was asked by a reporter to clarify what exactly transpired when Trump raised the 51st state idea. In response, Carney said, “It’s not right to provide all the details of such a conversation.” He emphasized that the key takeaway from the call was Trump’s acknowledgment of Canada’s sovereignty and a commitment to initiate comprehensive negotiations on trade and security after the election.
Carney used the occasion to reiterate his view that Canada is facing an unprecedented crisis and positioned himself as the leader with the experience necessary to guide the country through uncertain times. “The president’s latest comments are more proof, as if we needed any, that the old relationship with the United States is over,” Carney stated, stressing the need for a new approach to U.S.-Canada relations. He outlined his plan to safeguard Canadian workers and expand the country’s trading partners.
In addition, Carney directed criticism at his main opponent, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, accusing him of lacking a clear strategy to confront Trump. “Unlike Pierre Poilievre, I’ve managed budgets before. I’ve managed economies before. I’ve managed crises before. This is a time for experience, not experiments,” Carney added, positioning his leadership experience as essential for navigating the challenges ahead.
