Why Canada’s Election Feels Different This Time — and Why Trump Is Still in the Picture

Canada is heading to the polls on Monday — but this election feels very different.
It’s not just about local issues anymore. Somehow, Donald Trump has found a way to loom large over Canada’s big vote!

Here’s what’s going on:

In late March, Prime Minister Mark Carney, the new leader of the Liberal Party, had a phone call with Trump. During the call, Trump again brought up an outrageous idea: making Canada the 51st U.S. state!

Yes, really. Carney told reporters that Trump talks about this “all the time,” but made it absolutely clear:
“It will never happen.”

Even though Trump says he’s staying out of Canada’s election, his actions are still being felt everywhere.

• He slapped Canada with huge tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars.
• He even started calling former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a “governor” — like a U.S. state leader!

All of this has made Canadians more determined than ever to stand up for their country.
Even in Quebec — a province that’s sometimes talked about leaving Canada — voters now want strong leaders who will push back hard against Trump.

At a recent French-language debate, all the major party leaders were grilled on one big question:
How will you handle Trump?

Mark Carney (Liberals) and Pierre Poilievre (Conservatives) are both trying to convince Canadians they are the best choice to defend the country — especially in the middle of a tough trade war with the U.S.

Meanwhile, Canadians are voting in record numbers. Over 7 million people have already cast their votes early! Polls show the Liberals slightly ahead — but the race is getting tighter by the day.
It’s anyone’s game.