The Liberals fell just short of a majority government in yesterday’s election, ending with about 168 seats to 144 for the Conservatives. Prime Minister Mark Carney needed 172 for a majority. The Bloc Quebecois lost ground, ending with about 23 seats while the NDP emerged with a meagre 7 seats. The Green Party claimed one seat—in B.C.
The numbers pose all kinds of possible combinations when it comes to voting in the House of Commons. Both the Bloc and NDP could prop up the Liberals and Conservatives to where each would be in a virtual tie.
Prime Minister Mark Carney during his victory speech. (CPAC)
During his victory speech, Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged the continued unprecedented path ahead given tensions with the United States and President Donald Trump’s tariffs and threats on Canadian sovereignty.
“Our old relationship with the United States, a relationship based on steadily increasing integration, is over,” said Carney. He says the current situation in relation to trade and tension with the administration south of border is the new reality for Canada moving forward and this country has to look out for itself.
Jagmeet Singh (CPAC)
After an underwhelming show of support for the NDP, Leader Jagmeet Singh lost his seat and announced he would be stepping down as party leader.
Conservative Pierre Poilievre (CPAC)
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also lost his own seat after a lengthy career in the House of Commons, though he suggested he will stay on as the leader of the Conservatives.
