Canada’s 24th prime minister, Mark Carney, took office on Friday with a promise to dive into action and a hint that Canadians will head to the polls soon. Sworn in at Rideau Hall, the former central banker outlined a vision of “change, focus, action,” unveiling a leaner cabinet and teasing bold moves in the days ahead.
“Expect to vote before November,” Carney told reporters after the ceremony, dodging questions about recalling Parliament but hinting at an election call within weeks. “We’re making decisions fast—there’s more news coming to secure the mandate we need for these times.” Pointing to his new cabinet behind him, he added, “This team brings fresh ideas to tackle threats and seize opportunities.”
Carney’s swearing-in marked the end of Justin Trudeau’s nearly decade-long tenure, which wrapped with a private resignation meeting with Governor General Mary Simon. Trudeau bid farewell on social media: “Thank you, Canada, for the privilege of serving the best country and people on earth.”
Arriving solo at Rideau Hall—eschewing Trudeau’s signature walkway strut—Carney pledged to hit the ground running. “We’re a focused government, all about action,” he said en route to the historic moment. His 23-person cabinet, a sharp cut from Trudeau’s 36, blends veterans like Dominic LeBlanc (now International Trade) and Mélanie Joly (Foreign Affairs) with newcomers, though it skips Alberta and P.E.I. representation and steps back from Trudeau’s gender-balance focus.
“This leaner team is built to deliver on what matters—economic strength and security,” the Prime Minister’s Office stated. Notable shifts include François-Philippe Champagne taking Finance and Chrystia Freeland moving to Transport, while Karina Gould, a leadership rival, was left out. Gould congratulated the team, vowing to support them despite her exclusion.
Carney brushed off criticism about regional gaps: “This cabinet’s experience spans Canada in ways that defy simple labels.” A senior source hinted at an “immediate decision” from the first cabinet meeting at 2 p.m. EDT, with details to follow.
Looking abroad, Carney confirmed trips to France and the U.K. next week and anticipates a call with U.S. President Donald Trump soon, though no meeting is set. At home, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre wasted no time attacking, livestreaming a press conference as Carney took office.
Among the high-profile guests were former PM Jean Chrétien, who predicted Carney would excel in the “tough job,” and Trudeau-era figures like Gerry Butts. As Canada’s new leader steps into a critical moment—facing Trump’s tariff threats and a tight electoral race—Carney’s mantra of focus and action will soon be tested.