Canadian Prime Ministers Who Followed Unconventional Paths to Power

Prime Minister Mark Carney holds a press conference following a swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on March 14, 2025. The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld

Mark Carney’s ascension to prime ministership last week is unprecedented in Canadian history, as he has never previously held an elected position.

There have been a few other cases of “firsts” as well for unconventional paths to becoming head of government in Canadian history.