Liberal MPs gather for their first national caucus since Trump's return to the White House, seeking unity but facing divisions over the party's leadership. The threat of US tariffs looms large, dominating the agenda as Canada grapples with its response to the new US administration.
Liberal MPs convened their first national caucus meeting since United States President Donald Trump returned to the White House, seeking to project unity. However, the Grits returned to Parliament Hill divided over their choice for the party's next leader. \While striving for a united front, the internal debate over the leadership race was evident. Mark Carney, former Bank of Canada governor, garnered the most caucus endorsements with at least 38 MPs supporting his campaign.
Chrystia Freeland, former finance minister, secured at least 25 endorsements. Other candidates vying for the leadership include MPs Karina Gould, Chandra Arya, and Jaime Battiste, businessman Frank Baylis, and former Liberal MP Ruby Dhalla. \Liberal MP Mark Gerretsen prioritized rebuilding the party during the two-day caucus meetings. He expressed hope for a positive outcome from the contested leadership race, while acknowledging the divisions within the party. Despite these internal differences, MPs emphasized their unity against Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. James Maloney, backing Freeland, stated their shared focus on opposing Poilievre and standing up for Canada. He assured that there was no dissension or disagreement within the caucus. \Poilievre's Conservatives maintain a significant lead over the Liberals in national polling, making the Liberal Party's prospects in the upcoming federal election a primary concern. Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Anita Anand stressed the need for a strong caucus to prepare for the next election, highlighting their commitment to programs that benefit families, children, and vulnerable members of society. Anand, who has not endorsed a leadership candidate, emphasized the importance of focusing on Canada's response to the United States, particularly regarding internal trade and reducing barriers to commerce. She believes this is a crucial response to the current global crisis. \Trump's looming presence was a significant factor in the caucus meeting, as Canada's response to the new U.S. administration dominated the agenda. Trump's previous threats of 25-percent tariffs on Canadian goods entering the U.S. on his inauguration day, although not implemented, continued to cast a shadow. The possibility of these tariffs being imposed on February 1 fueled anxiety among Liberal MPs.
Liberal Party Leadership Race Donald Trump US Tariffs Canada-US Relations Pierre Poilievre Federal Election
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