WATCH: Carney in Edmonton, refuses Western Standard question on assets and potential conflict of interest

Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Edmonton Thursday — first meeting Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, then shifting to a housing announcement this afternoon.

As Carney exited the Queen Elizabeth II provincial government building this morning, the Western Standard asked, "When are you going to reveal your assets to Canadians and address potential conflicts of interest?"

Carney remained friendly but continued walking. Police on scene were courteous.

Carney, sworn in as Canada’s prime minister on March 14, is already facing controversy over his refusal to fully disclose his financial assets and potential conflicts of interest, particularly tied to his tenure at Brookfield Asset Management.

Critics, including the Conservative Party and its ethics critic Michael Barrett, argue that Carney’s extensive private-sector background—where he held significant stock options and roles at Brookfield, reportedly worth millions—raises concerns about whether his financial interests could influence government decisions.

Despite placing his assets in a blind trust upon taking office, Carney has not disclosed their value or details, citing compliance with the Conflict of Interest Act, which allows 120 days for public disclosure after appointment.

Carney also took to the ice with the Edmonton Oilers.

This timeline suggests Canadians could vote in the April 28 federal election without clarity on his holdings.

The Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, accuse Carney of exploiting a loophole, demanding immediate transparency given Brookfield’s involvement in sectors like energy and infrastructure, which intersect with public policy.

Carney insists he has gone beyond ethics requirements by establishing the blind trust early and anticipates a conflict-of-interest screen for Brookfield-related decisions.

However, his sharp exchanges with reporters — telling one to “look inside yourself” when pressed — have heightened perceptions of evasiveness.

Public and media sentiment questions whether his past ties could undermine national interests, especially with looming U.S. tariff threats under U.S. President Donald Trump.

The lack of pre-election disclosure remains the heart of the debate, with critics asking, “What is he hiding?” while Carney maintains he is adhering to the law.

Carney used police to remove the Western Standard from his campaign launch in Edmonton on January 16.