Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party secured victories in three special elections held on Tuesday, preserving the government’s narrow parliamentary majority amid escalating trade tensions with the United States. The Liberal candidates won seats in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, reinforcing the government’s position since securing a majority in the April general election.

While the contests in British Columbia and Ontario took place in ridings considered traditional Liberal strongholds, the Quebec race attracted particular attention. The Liberal candidate narrowly defeated the Conservative incumbent in a closely contested constituency, marking a significant gain for Carney’s party in the predominantly French-speaking province. Quebec is scheduled to hold a provincial election on October 5, where separatist parties remain the favorites despite a decline in support for independence.

In response to the election outcomes, Carney emphasized the importance of national unity during a period of external economic challenges. “Canada is being tested in a changing world,” Carney said, highlighting the government’s focus on strengthening the domestic economy and expanding international trade partnerships beyond the United States.

The special elections were called to fill vacant parliamentary seats, with six additional by-elections planned in the coming months to complete representation in the House of Commons. Observers note that maintaining the slim majority is critical for Carney’s administration as it navigates a complex trade environment and prepares for forthcoming electoral contests.