This week, Prime Minister Mark Carney solidified his political footing, advancing key appointments, surviving his first confidence vote, and rallying provincial support for a new wave of nation-building projects.
Carney Appoints Blanchard as Chief of Staff, Names Parliamentary Secretary Team, and Reinforces Global Trade Ties
Prime Minister Carney announced the appointment of Marc-André Blanchard as his permanent Chief of Staff, effective July. A former United Nations ambassador and an executive at Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Blanchard is seen as a heavyweight choice to anchor the Prime Minister’s Office as the minority government pursues an ambitious domestic and international agenda.
Former Attorney General David Lametti is also rumoured to be taking on the role as principal secretary, though no official confirmation has been issued. Lametti resigned as an MP in 2024 after being shuffled out of the cabinet the year prior.
Carney also announced a new parliamentary secretary team on June 5, designed to support cabinet ministers to bolster economic growth, enhance Canada-U.S. relations, and strengthen community safety. On the same day, he spoke with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to reaffirm trade and defence ties.
Meanwhile, in Paris, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu hosted G7 trade ministers and emphasized Canada’s commitment to rules-based global trade and open, stable markets, with Canada preparing to host the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis from June 15 to 17. He also participated in the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting and WTO mini-ministerial, where he advocated for WTO reforms and announced Canada’s $2 million contribution to the OECD Southeast Asia Regional Programme, co-chaired with the Philippines from 2025 to 2028.
Carney Government’s Confidence Vote, Commits to Fall Budget Despite Pressure
Carney’s Liberal government passed its first major test by surviving its first confidence vote as the amended throne speech was adopted on division in the House of Commons, avoiding a recorded vote and a potential snap election.
The motion, which passed despite NDP opposition, included amendments from the Conservatives, Bloc Québécois, and NDP. Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon said the result sets the stage for the government’s agenda, while interim NDP Leader Don Davies criticized the speech for lacking detail on health care and housing.
In parallel, the House of Commons narrowly approved an amendment proposed by Opposition House Leader Andrew Scheer, urging the government to present a spring economic update or budget focused on economic growth, fiscal accountability, and respect for provincial, Quebec, and Indigenous jurisdictions. The motion passed with 166 votes in favour and 164 against.
Several Conservative MPs, including Greg McLean, Dean Allison, and Sandra Cobena, criticized the Liberal government for failing to present a spring budget, expressing concerns about economic uncertainty, the housing crisis, and rising debt.
Despite losing the vote, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne ruled out presenting one before summer, promising instead a full budget in the fall as the Throne Speech debate continues and MPs prepare for emergency wildfire discussions.
Carney and Premiers Unite Behind Nation-Building Projects
In a display of unity, Canada’s premiers with Prime Minister Carney gathered in Saskatoon for a first ministers’ meeting, focusing on accelerating “nation-building” infrastructure projects to strengthen the economy and make Canada a global energy superpower.
Discussions included critical minerals, nuclear energy, oil and gas decarbonization, and improving Indigenous consultation. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed cautious optimism, particularly regarding her northern B.C. pipeline proposal, which faced opposition from British Columbia and concerns from First Nations.
Carney emphasized the need to fast-track these projects through upcoming legislation aimed at removing interprovincial trade barriers to boost Canadian competitiveness amid U.S. tariff pressures.
Premiers showed rare unity around this agenda, with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe highlighting the importance of treating provinces as equal partners and calling the meeting a “generational opportunity” for Canada to become an energy superpower. Moe stressed supporting policies that promote economic growth and infrastructure development.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford praised the meeting as “our best meeting in 10 years,” commending Carney’s approach.
Canadians Express Unease Over Pharmacare Program
A Department of Health focus group study revealed that Canadians remain skeptical of the federal government’s promised pharmacare program. Participants voiced concerns about unclear eligibility criteria and potential “strings attached” to the free medication being offered.
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