Based on coverage from The Star, Winnipeg Free Press, and Winnipeg Free Press.
Mark Carney: Canada's Newsmaker of the Year
Mark Carney, once a relatively obscure figure to the average Canadian, has become a household name in 2025. The former central banker and current Prime Minister was overwhelmingly selected as The Canadian Press Newsmaker of the Year, receiving 72 out of 95 votes in a survey of newsroom editors and leaders across the country. His rapid rise to prominence reflects significant shifts in Canada's political landscape over the past year.
Carney's Political Ascension and Impact
Carney's journey to the Prime Minister's Office began with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's resignation announcement in January. Winning the Liberal leadership race, Carney quickly became a central figure in Canadian politics. His approach to the ongoing trade war with the United States, particularly his "elbows up" stance against U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive policies, resonated with Canadians. This shift in focus from affordability issues to national sovereignty and trade helped the Liberals regain political ground against the Conservatives.
Trade Tensions and Economic Strategies
Trade negotiations with the United States have been a defining aspect of Carney's tenure. Trump's abrupt halt to talks over an anti-tariff ad funded by Ontario has kept tensions high. With the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) entering its review period next year, these negotiations are expected to remain a hot topic. Carney has also sought to diversify Canada's trade relationships by reopening dialogues with China and India, aiming to reduce economic dependence on the U.S.
Domestic Challenges and Criticisms
Domestically, Carney has faced challenges in accelerating the approval of industrial projects, a key promise of his administration. While he has pushed for faster approvals through the major projects office, critics, particularly from the Conservative opposition, have pointed to the lack of new pipeline projects as a significant shortcoming. However, a recent memorandum of understanding with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith could pave the way for increased oil production and a new pipeline to the B.C. coast.
Other Notable Figures in Canadian News
While Carney dominated the Newsmaker of the Year survey, other figures also captured national attention. Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. came in second, with his performance during the team's World Series run uniting Canadians across the country. Striking workers, including those from Air Canada, Alberta's education sector, and Canada Post, rounded out the top three, highlighting a year marked by significant labour disputes.
Political and Regional Tensions
The political landscape in Canada remains complex, with regional tensions simmering. The Blue Jays' success provided a temporary reprieve from these divisions, but issues like potential referendums on separation in Alberta and renewed separatist momentum in Quebec continue to loom. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also featured prominently in the news, reflecting their influence on national conversations.
As 2026 approaches, Carney's leadership will likely continue to shape Canada's political and economic trajectory, with trade negotiations and domestic policy challenges at the forefront.
Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3
Coverage was consistent across the sources, with all highlighting Mark Carney's selection as The Canadian Press Newsmaker of the Year due to his political impact and leadership during the trade war with the United States. No meaningful differences in coverage were found across the sources provided.
