Mark J. Carney, a Harvard grad from the class of ’87, has just become Canada’s 24th Prime Minister. He won the Liberal Party leadership race, defeating fellow Harvard alum Chrystia A. Freeland and two other candidates. This election came after Justin Trudeau announced his retirement from the Liberal leadership back in January.
Carney received a substantial 131,674 votes, making up about 86% of the total. Freeland, who finished second, secured just over 11,000 votes. Carney has been the frontrunner since he entered the race early this year.
In his acceptance speech, Carney addressed tensions with the United States, particularly President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs on Canadian imports. Carney stated his government will keep the tariffs in place until the U.S. demonstrates respect for Canada. “All proceeds from our tariffs will help protect our workers,” he added. He firmly stated, “Canada will never ever be part of America, in any way, shape, or form.”
Carney’s role as Prime Minister marks his first elected position. Previously, he was a governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, navigating major financial crises in both countries.
He’s also the first Harvard College graduate to become Prime Minister of Canada, joining the ranks of two former prime ministers who earned degrees from the university. Carney has stepped down from Harvard’s Board of Overseers, preparing for his new role.
However, as Prime Minister, Carney faces immediate challenges. The opposition leader, Pierre M. Poilievre, has indicated he may push for a no-confidence vote when Parliament resumes. Additionally, Canadian law mandates a general election by October if Carney’s coalition remains in power.
Amidst all this, Carney’s daughter, Cleo N. Carney, a current Harvard freshman, praised him for his dedication in her speech. “He is unwaveringly supportive of the things he cares about,” she shared. “My dad invests in what matters and is always ready to work hard.”
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