Recently installed prime minister expected to confirm 28 April ballot as he seeks to keep Liberal party in government

Summary

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will call an early general election for April 28 and run for office in Ottawa’s Nepean riding.

Carney, who succeeded Justin Trudeau in March, seeks a clear mandate amid rising tensions with the U.S. sparked by Donald Trump’s trade war threats and calls for Canada to become the 51st state.

The opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, had expected an easy victory until Trump’s attacks fueled a surge in nationalism, boosting Liberal support.

The election will decide 343 House of Commons seats.