Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney Unveils Overhauled Cabinet Amid Escalating US Trade Dispute

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
13/05/2025 20h42

### Carney Rebuilds Cabinet Amid US Trade Tensions with Ambitious Economic Agenda

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has introduced a new cabinet, pledging to take "decisive action" on his bold economic plan. This development occurs against the backdrop of a trade dispute with the US and President Donald Trump's persistent remarks challenging Canada's sovereignty.

The revamped leadership team includes 28 ministers and 10 secretaries of state, featuring both seasoned politicians and newcomers. The most noteworthy change is the appointment of a new foreign minister to manage the tense US-Canada relationship. Carney described the new team as "purpose-built for this hinge moment," designed to achieve the "change Canadians want and deserve."

In an effort to improve the strained relationship with the United States, Carney has made key adjustments to the core group handling this crucial issue. Dominic LeBlanc, a long-serving MP who previously held the international trade portfolio, will now concentrate on Canada-US trade and dismantling internal trade barriers within Canada—a central promise of Carney's campaign. Maninder Sidhu, an MP from the Toronto area, has been named the new minister of international trade.

Anita Anand is the new foreign minister, having previously served in several high-ranking positions under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, including defence. Gary Anandasangaree, the former justice minister, is now in charge of public safety, including border security—a significant point of contention cited by Trump. David McGuinty, who formerly oversaw public safety, will now focus on defence.

In a shake-up within the cabinet, Bill Blair and Jonathan Wilkinson have been removed from their posts overseeing defence and natural resources, respectively. Tim Hodgson, a recently elected MP and former Bank of Canada adviser, will take over the natural resources portfolio.

Several key figures have retained their roles, including Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne and former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland, who continues to manage transport. Steven Guilbeault will remain responsible for Canadian culture and official languages.

Carney has ensured his cabinet reflects Canada's regional, linguistic, and ethnic diversity. This includes representation from the prairie provinces, where there are increasing discussions about separation due to feelings of exclusion from the central government. Gender parity continues to be a priority in Carney's cabinet, reflecting policies carried over from Trudeau's administration.

New faces in Carney's lineup include ex-broadcaster Evan Solomon, who will be the minister of artificial intelligence and digital innovation, and Julie Dabrusin, a Toronto MP newly appointed as environment minister. Lena Metlege Diab from Halifax takes on the immigration portfolio, while Gregor Robertson, the former mayor of Vancouver, will address the housing crisis by spearheading efforts to boost construction.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Carney for retaining many ministers from Trudeau's cabinet, arguing that it falls short of the significant change Carney promised. The ongoing trade tensions with the US and the potential risks of a global trade war remain critical issues as Carney's newly formed team steps into their roles.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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