Canadian PM Mark Carney Unveils New Cabinet, Signaling Change and Continuity
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney introduced his new cabinet on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in a move that signals both change and continuity in Canada's federal government [1][2]. The reshuffling comes in the wake of the April federal election and amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States [4].
Carney's cabinet consists of 28 full ministers and 10 secretaries of state, described by the Prime Minister as a "more traditional cabinet" structure [1]. The new lineup includes 24 new faces, with half of the ministers being new to the front bench [1][2].
"Canadians elected us with a mandate for change, so there is a great deal of change in this cabinet by necessity," Carney stated [1]. The Prime Minister emphasized his aim to balance new perspectives with experience in selecting his team.
Several key players from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government have retained prominent positions. Chrystia Freeland, Dominic LeBlanc, Mélanie Joly, and François-Philippe Champagne are among those continuing in the cabinet [1][2]. Notably, Joly has been moved from Foreign Affairs to the Innovation portfolio [2].
New appointments include Anita Anand as Minister of Foreign Affairs, returning to cabinet after a brief hiatus [3]. Sean Fraser will serve as Canada's Justice Minister and Attorney General [3]. Marjorie Michel, once deputy chief of staff to Trudeau, has been appointed as the new Minister of Health [4].
The new cabinet faces significant challenges, particularly in addressing strained Canada-U.S. relations. Recent months have seen a trade war initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, impacting various sectors including automotive, industrial, and energy [4].
Other priorities for the Carney government include reinvigorating Canada's housing supply with modular homes, strengthening trade and security ties with countries other than the U.S., and implementing immigration caps [4].
The swearing-in ceremony, presided over by Governor General Mary Simon, took place at Rideau Hall on Tuesday morning [4][5]. As the new cabinet convenes for its first meeting on Wednesday, Canadians will be watching closely to see how this blend of new and experienced ministers tackles the country's pressing issues.