Jean Chrétien Campaigns for Liberals in Key Ridings Ahead of Canada’s April 28 Election, Boosting Mark Carney’s Bid for Power

National Times Bureau: In the lead-up to Canada’s crucial federal election on April 28, former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien has been an active presence on the campaign trail, stumping for the Liberal Party in an effort to secure victory for Liberal leader Mark Carney. The 91-year-old political heavyweight has been traveling across the country, lending his support to candidates in 30 different electoral districts, with a particular focus on regions where the Liberals face stiff competition from their Conservative rivals.

Chrétien, who served as Prime Minister from 1993 to 2003, is widely regarded as one of Canada’s most successful and influential political figures. During his tenure, he led the Liberals to three consecutive majority governments, including a landslide victory in 1993 that saw the party claim a near-total majority in the House of Commons. This election remains a defining moment in Canadian politics, and Chrétien’s endorsement of Mark Carney is seen as a crucial move to help the current leader repeat or even surpass his own historic success.

The Liberal Party, under Carney’s leadership, has faced significant challenges, particularly from the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre. With polls showing a tight race between the Liberals and Conservatives, Chrétien’s support is seen as pivotal in motivating the party’s base and persuading undecided voters to back the Liberals in what is shaping up to be one of the most contentious elections in recent memory.

While Chrétien’s influence remains strong across the country, he has been particularly vocal in Quebec, where his reputation and support among voters have been long-standing. His endorsement holds particular weight in a province where the Liberal Party has traditionally performed well, and where the battle for seats could be decisive in determining whether Canada ends up with a majority government, a minority government, or a coalition.

During his campaign stops, Chrétien has made it clear that he views this election as a critical juncture for Canada’s future. He has been especially outspoken in his criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose actions and rhetoric Chrétien believes have posed a threat to Canada’s sovereignty. Chrétien has taken aim at Trump’s threats to annex parts of Canada and impose punitive tariffs, positioning the Liberals as the party best equipped to safeguard the nation’s interests and maintain strong international relationships.

Beyond his condemnation of Trump, Chrétien has also framed this election as a battle for the values that have defined Canada’s identity, such as inclusivity, social justice, and a commitment to multilateralism. He has stressed that the country needs leadership that is prepared to stand firm against foreign pressures and prioritize the well-being of Canadians. With his legacy as a steadfast leader who helped navigate Canada through some of its most turbulent times, Chrétien’s words carry significant weight, particularly in the context of this election.

Chrétien’s involvement in the 2025 election is not just a symbolic gesture but a strategic move by the Liberal Party to energize its supporters and ensure that the electorate remains focused on the stakes of the race. As the campaign intensifies, many political analysts believe that Chrétien’s presence on the trail could make a meaningful difference in tight races, particularly in battleground ridings like those in Quebec and Ontario.

For Mark Carney, the endorsement of one of Canada’s most respected political figures is a boon as he seeks to build momentum for his party. Carney, who previously served as Governor of the Bank of Canada and later as the Governor of the Bank of England, has faced questions from some corners about his political acumen, but Chrétien’s backing lends considerable weight to his candidacy.

As the April 28 election draws closer, all eyes are on these key ridings, with many political observers noting that Chrétien’s influence in Quebec could be the deciding factor in whether the Liberals manage to secure enough seats to form a government. With the race so close, every campaign stop, every endorsement, and every vote will matter, making Chrétien’s contributions all the more significant.

With Chrétien’s support, the Liberal Party hopes to not only maintain its relevance in the face of a strong Conservative challenge but to reassert its dominance on the national stage. As Canadians head to the polls, Chrétien’s message is clear: the future of Canada depends on the choices made today, and the Liberal Party offers the best path forward to ensure that the country remains a strong, independent, and progressive force in the world.