Trudeau Affirms ‘Full Confidence’ in Freeland, Says He’s Talking With Carney

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, along with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, arrive at the Hamilton Convention Centre, in Hamilton, Ont., ahead of the Liberal Cabinet retreat, on Jan. 23, 2023. The Canadian Press/Nick Iwanyshyn

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he has “full confidence” in Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, addressing rumours of tensions between her and his office. He also confirmed ongoing discussions with former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney about recruiting him.

Mr. Trudeau described Ms. Freeland as “a close friend and ally” as he spoke at a July 11 press conference in Washington, D.C. “I have full confidence in her abilities and on the work we’re going to be doing together.”

He also acknowledged Ms. Freeland’s efforts in delivering housing programs and childcare initiatives, saying, “These are all things that Chrystia has led on and will continue to.”

Mr. Trudeau’s comment came after The Globe and Mail reported on July 11 that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is concerned Ms. Freeland has not been effective in delivering a positive economic message to Canadians. As the Liberal government grapples with low approval ratings, the report cited a source who mentioned internal discussions about the possibility of Mr. Trudeau recruiting Mr. Carney for the finance minister file.

Mr. Trudeau confirmed during the July 11 press conference that he has been talking with Mr. Carney “for years” about getting him to join federal politics, adding, “I think he would be an outstanding addition at a time when Canadians need good people to step up in politics.”

The Epoch Times reached out to the PMO and Ms. Freeland’s office for comment but didn’t hear back by the time of publication.

The Liberals’ defeat in the recent byelection in Toronto–St. Paul’s, a traditional Liberal stronghold, and overall low polling have added pressure on the government to reassess its messaging and leadership strategies heading into the upcoming federal election.

The prime minister himself has faced political pressure to step down since the byelection defeat, with some current and former Liberal MPs calling for his resignation.

Backbench Liberal MP Wayne Long was one of those urging Mr. Trudeau to step down following the byelection, circulating his views in an email within the Liberal caucus. Similar calls also came from former Liberal cabinet minister Catherine McKenna.

Mr. Trudeau has confirmed his intention to remain as prime minister, with several cabinet ministers voicing their support for him. Ms. Freeland has defended Mr. Trudeau, as have others such as Immigration Minister Marc Miller and Mental Health Minister Ya'ara Saks.