From Trump to Poilievre to the King, here’s what came out of Carney’s post-election news conference
Prime Minister Mark Carney held his first major press conference since winning a minority government, covering a wide range of issues—from his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, to King Charles’s visit to Canada, and his government’s legislative plans moving forward. Carney also addressed his party’s electoral standing, his approach to opposition leaders like Pierre Poilievre, and his refusal to pursue a governing pact with the NDP.
Carney confirmed he will travel to Washington on May 6 for his first face-to-face meeting with Trump since becoming prime minister on March 14. The talks are expected to focus on the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States and could lay the groundwork for negotiating a new trade and security pact.
“I go there with the expectation of difficult but constructive discussions,” Carney said.
“You go to these meetings well-prepared, understanding the objectives of your counterpart, and always acting in the best interests of Canada.”
Carney was also asked whether he’s concerned about being blindsided during the meeting, as other foreign leaders have been in the past. He responded confidently that he would be “well-prepared” and reiterated:
“It has to be clear to Trump—there’s only one prime minister.”
On the international front, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Canada from May 26 to 27. According to the Royal Family’s official website, their itinerary includes attending the State Opening of Parliament in Ottawa. Carney emphasized that the King’s in-person presence “underscores Canada’s sovereignty,” while Governor General Mary Simon said she is “delighted” to welcome them.
“Our Canadian identity is deeply rooted in our Constitution, and this visit highlights the enduring relationship between Canada and the Crown,” Simon said.
The following are some of the key dates announced by the prime minister:
May 6: Meeting with President Trump at the White House
May 12: Swearing-in of Carney’s new cabinet
May 26: Parliament to be recalled
May 27: King Charles to deliver the Speech from the Throne
Carney was questioned about his party falling short of a majority, despite strong polling during much of the campaign. He said the Liberals received 8.5 million votes, won seats in every province, and secured a majority of the vote in seven out of ten provinces, which he called a strong mandate.
“We will work within Parliament,” he said.
Asked if he would encourage MPs from other parties to cross the floor, Carney declined to answer directly but said he has had constructive conversations with Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet and Pierre Poilievre regarding Canada’s strategy with the U.S.
“We all have similar objectives when it comes to dealing with the Americans,” he added.
When pressed about the possibility of a formal governing pact with the NDP, Carney was clear:
“No.”
And when asked why not, he responded with a curt, “Why?”
He reiterated that the Liberals ran on a clear set of policy priorities, and even without a majority, the government intends to introduce legislation aligned with their platform.
Carney also outlined plans to improve internal trade, expand dental and child care programs, and follow through on creating a new housing agency with $25 billion in financing for private developers to double housing construction—using Canadian materials like lumber.
Political analysts noted the prime minister’s conciliatory tone, particularly toward Conservative voters and leadership, with an emphasis on affordability, crime, and housing.
“What we’re seeing is a number of olive branches,” said Jordan Leichnitz of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.
“Carney struck a more gracious tone toward Poilievre, which is very smart given the current internal challenges the Conservatives are facing.”
