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Liberal Leadership Race Highlights Challenges for Candidates in Quebec and Beyond

Mark Carney's French skills and party-wide criticisms emerge as key themes in the contest to replace Justin Trudeau.

Liberal Party of Canada leadership candidates Karina Gould, Frank Baylis, Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney greet one another prior to the English-language Liberal leadership debate in Montreal on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. The federal Liberals will pick a new leader on March 9. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi
Liberal Party leadership candidate and former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney speaks to the media after participating in an English language debate ahead of the March 9 vote to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Montreal on Feb. 25.
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Overview

  • Mark Carney's limited French proficiency has drawn scrutiny, particularly during the French-language Liberal leadership debate, where his errors raised concerns about his ability to connect with Quebec voters.
  • Polls suggest Liberal support in Quebec has increased recently, but the durability of this trend remains uncertain, especially as Carney's appeal to francophone voters is questioned.
  • Critics within Canada have expressed frustration with the Liberal Party's recent governance, with some voters regretting their support in the last election and calling for a party overhaul.
  • The leadership race has seen candidates address topics such as secularism, immigration, and defense, though skepticism persists about whether any new leader will bring significant change from Trudeau's policies.
  • Donald Trump's aggressive rhetoric towards Canada, including tariff threats, has influenced public opinion, with some Canadians seeking stability under Liberal leadership despite internal party challenges.