Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has secured a parliamentary majority for his centrist Liberal government following victories in three key by-elections on Monday.
The Liberal Party now holds 174 seats in the 343-seat House of Commons. The wins occurred in the Ontario ridings of University–Rosedale and Scarborough Southwest, as well as the Quebec riding of Terrebonne.
Carney said the government would prioritize economic affordability following the results. He announced a temporary suspension of the federal fuel excise tax on petrol and diesel from April 20 to September 7.
This measure is expected to reduce petrol prices by approximately 10 cents Canadian per litre and diesel by four cents. Carney said the move would reduce operating costs for sectors including agriculture, housing, and construction.
Opposition criticizes seat gains
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre accused the Liberal Party of securing its majority through "backroom deals" rather than voter support. He specifically pointed to recent instances of politicians switching party allegiance to join the Liberals.
Poilievre claimed the Prime Minister's focus has been on a "cynical power grab" while economic indicators decline. He noted that Canada currently faces high grocery and housing costs within the G7.
Before Monday’s by-elections, Carney had already increased his party's numbers through several high-profile defections. Five Members of Parliament switched parties over the last five months, including four from the Conservatives and one from the New Democratic Party.
Longtime Conservative Marilyn Gladu joined the Liberals last week, citing the need for leadership to navigate economic uncertainty. She described Carney’s party as "the large Liberal tent."
With the new majority, the Liberals no longer need Conservative support to pass economic and trade legislation. Andrew McDougall, an assistant professor of Canadian politics at the University of Toronto, said Carney will now be able to pass legislation without seeking opposition votes.
