Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says newly elected federal Liberal leader Mark Carney must call an immediate federal election.
On Sunday, Mark Carney won the Liberal Party of Canada leadership race in a landslide victory, securing 85.9% of the vote on the first ballot. The former Governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England defeated competitors Chrystia Freeland 8%, Karina Gould 3.2%, and Frank Baylis 3%.
Carney, who has never held elected office, is set to replace Justin Trudeau as Canada’s prime minister in the coming days, following Trudeau’s resignation announcement in January.
"At a time when we are facing unprecedented economic challenges with our largest trading partner, Canada deserves and needs a leader with a mandate from Canadians," said Smith on X.
"New Liberal Leader Mark Carney needs to put Canada first and call an election immediately."
Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suspended parliament on January 6 to allow Liberals time to find a new leader. He was criticized for the move as Canada entered a time of uncertainty over U.S. tariffs.
There is some speculation — and fear among conservatives — that Carney may delay an election. He currently doesn't have a seat in the House of Commons.
The next Canadian federal election is scheduled to take place no later than October 20.
