As Canadians prepare to vote, let’s take a closer look at the two men vying for the prime minister’s office: Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre. Their backgrounds, policies, and visions for Canada couldn’t be more different.
Mark Carney, a former central banker, brings a wealth of economic experience to the table. Pierre Poilievre, a career politician, promises to shake up the status quo. Here’s what you need to know about each candidate.
Candidate Profiles
In the 2025 Canadian federal election, voters face a stark choice between two contrasting leaders: Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative challenger Pierre Poilievre. Their distinct backgrounds and policy platforms reflect the divergent paths Canada could take in the coming years.
- Mark Carney
- Background: Born in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, Carney is the first Canadian prime minister from the North. He rose to prominence as governor of the Bank of Canada during the 2008 financial crisis and later led the Bank of England through the Brexit turmoil.
- Policies: Carney has focused on protecting Canadian industries from U.S. tariffs, proposing a “made-in-Canada” economic strategy. He has also pledged to reduce the federal deficit and eliminate the Goods and Services Tax for first-time homebuyers.
- Social Stances: Carney is pro-choice and has emphasized the importance of safeguarding fundamental rights, particularly in light of recent U.S. developments.
- Pierre Poilievre
- Background: A veteran Conservative MP, Poilievre has represented the Carleton riding since 2004. He positions himself as a champion of “common sense” and economic freedom.
- Policies: Poilievre has promised to scrap Canada’s electric vehicle sales quotas, reduce foreign aid, and cut taxes for low-income earners. He has also vowed to eliminate the federal sales tax for first-time homebuyers up to $1.3 million.
- Social Stances: While Poilievre has attended pro-life events in the past, he now identifies as “pro-choice,” though this shift has drawn criticism from some conservative groups.
The Choice Ahead
With such contrasting backgrounds and visions, the choice between Carney and Poilievre is clear. Voters must decide whether experience or change is more important for Canada’s future.
