The Liberal Party has enlisted former central banker Mark Carney to spearhead fundraising efforts for the next federal election campaign, as the party faces significant challenges in the polls. Carney, who was recently appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to chair a task force on economic growth, is stepping into a key role at a time when the Liberals are trailing the Conservatives by 20 points, according to a new Nanos Research poll.
The poll reveals that the Liberals and New Democrats are tied with 22% support, while Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives lead with 42%. With the end of the Liberal-NDP parliamentary arrangement and growing support for the Conservatives, pollster Nik Nanos warns the Liberals may be entering a “political death spiral.”
Carney’s involvement is seen as crucial for the Liberals, who have fallen behind in fundraising. In 2023, the Conservatives raised $35.3 million, more than double the Liberals’ $15.6 million. In a letter to donors, Carney emphasized his commitment to tackling Canada’s economic challenges, stating, “I am ready to help our country grow and tackle challenges head-on – with solutions, not slogans.”
Though Carney has not ruled out a future bid for Liberal leadership, his immediate task is to help revive the party’s economic message and boost its financial resources ahead of the next election.
