Mark Carney could be Canada’s shortest-serving prime minister

Mark Carney was sworn in as Canada’s prime minister on Friday, potentially becoming the country’s shortest-serving leader depending on the outcome of the next election. Former prime minister Charles Tupper holds the record for the shortest term, serving for just 69 days in 1896.

There is speculation that Carney may call an election before March 24, the day Parliament is scheduled to return. If the Liberals lose the election, Carney could have a shorter tenure than Tupper. Federal election campaigns in Canada must be between 37 and 51 days long, with election day falling on a Monday.

Based on sources speaking to CBC News, potential election days could be April 28 or May 5. This would give Carney between 46 and 52 days as prime minister before the election. While recent polls show a resurgence in Liberal support, the CBC Poll Tracker still predicts a Conservative victory as the most likely outcome.

In the event of a Liberal loss, there would be a transition period before Carney stops being prime minister. Transition periods typically last a few weeks, with past prime ministers being sworn into office shortly after winning elections. If the election is held on May 5, a transition period of 16 days would give the Liberal leader a total of 68 days in office, just one day short of Tupper’s record.

The uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election adds an interesting dynamic to Carney’s time in office. Canadians will be watching closely to see how events unfold and whether Carney will indeed become the country’s shortest-serving prime minister.