OTTAWA

Former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is stepping into the political spotlight, positioning herself as the foremost candidate to stand against Donald Trump's influence over Canada.

In her inaugural campaign advertisement following her announcement of intent to run for the Liberal leadership, Freeland does not hold back, accusing Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre of being willing to "sell out" Canada to the former U.S. President.

The compelling video message was shared across social media platforms early this morning, featuring Freeland reminding Canadians of her pivotal role in renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) under Trump—a feat she boasts about, claiming it infuriated the former president. "He doesn't like me very much because we won that battle," she states, emphasizing her experience and determination to protect Canadian interests.

Freeland, who stepped down from Justin Trudeau's cabinet in December, claims her departure was motivated by her desire to prepare more effectively for future confrontations with Trump. Her entry into the leadership race comes as the Liberal Party navigates a shifting political landscape, with a full campaign launch scheduled for this Sunday in Toronto.

The competition is heating up, as former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney has already begun his campaign efforts in Edmonton, and Liberal House Leader Karina Gould is poised to follow suit this weekend. Other potential candidates include Ottawa MP Chandra Arya, former Montreal MP Frank Baylis, and Cape Breton MP Jaime Battiste, all of whom have expressed their intentions to run for the party’s top position.

With the deadline for declarations rapidly approaching this Thursday, the race for the Liberal leadership is shaping up to be one of the most crucial battles in Canadian politics, as the party seeks to solidify its stance against right-wing populism and the looming shadow of Trumpism. Will Freeland's experience and fierce denunciation of Poilievre resonate with Canadian voters? Only time will tell as the political drama unfolds!