“There are some pivotal moments in history, and the threat from the U.S. challenging the existence of Canada is clearly one such moment.” Chrystia Freeland stated in a virtual Council Hall meeting of the Liberals on Sunday. She emphasized the importance of Canada standing firm against external threats, particularly from the United States, which she sees as challenging the country’s sovereignty. Freeland said, “It is crucial that we stand on the right side of history.”
Freeland highlighted the need to strengthen Canada’s relationships with Europe and Asia while identifying opposition to former U.S. President Donald Trump as a key priority. Also, she called the move on tariff imposition on Canadian imports “dumb.”
Fighting Trump a Top Priority
Addressing several pressing issues, Freeland focused on what she described as the growing threat posed by Trump. She framed the war between Ukraine and Russia as a frontline battle between dictatorship and democracy. She stated that not invading negighbours is the basic rule of democracy and that has been violated.
Reflecting on her experience against Trump’s threats, she cited her leadership in Canada’s response to Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian imports. She claimed that her credentials for fighting against Trump were proven when she led the strategic response to his proposed tariff increases on Canadian imports.“The tariffs were lifted unilaterally, and our response activated the Americans,” she said. With closer ties developing between Russia and the U.S., Freeland stressed the necessity of Canada developing independent security relationships.
Freeland warned that any move by Trump against Canada would be unwise. Discussing her opponent, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, she remarked, “I have the plan, experience, and guts to stand up to Trump. Poilievre cannot do that because he aspires to be a mini-Trump.”
Party Reform and Governance
Freeland also addressed internal Liberal Party politics, stressing the need for party reform. “We need regular leadership reviews. Leaders should not have the authority to decide how long they stay in power,” she asserted.
Education and Economic Growth
On post-secondary education, Freeland reiterated the Liberals’ commitment to accessibility. She highlighted their proposal for free trade schools and her efforts as Finance Minister to expand and increase student loans while permanently eliminating interest on them. She also expressed concern over provincial governments withdrawing funds from post-secondary education, warning that such actions could harm the quality of education and the caliber of graduates Canada produces.
Discussing interprovincial trade barriers, she suggested that Trump’s hostility presents an opportunity to strengthen Canada’s economy. “We must remove interprovincial barriers and rely on our own natural resources, especially critical minerals,” she stated.
Childcare and Labor Policies
On early learning and affordable childcare, Freeland described it as a strategic move to bolster the economy. “In my first term as Finance Minister, I championed affordable childcare, which single-handedly increased women’s participation in the workforce.” If re-elected, she promised to add another 100,000 daycare spaces while strengthening not-for-profit daycare providers.
Housing and Labor Unions
When questioned about housing regulations, Freeland emphasized that harmonizing building codes across provinces would accelerate home construction and create economies of scale in the construction industry. On labor unions, she reaffirmed her commitment, stating, “Unions not only strengthen working people but also foster a better work environment. My government will maintain strong ties with trade unions.”
