OTTAWA — Conservative Members of Parliament criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney on Monday for his recent comments regarding stalled trade negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump. During a press conference in Johannesburg over the weekend, Carney was asked when he last communicated with Trump. He responded, "Who cares?"

Carney had previously indicated that both he and Trump have been busy and mentioned that there was no urgent matter requiring discussion between them. This dismissal of the importance of communication with the U.S. president drew sharp rebukes from Conservative MPs during the question period in the House of Commons.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre highlighted that Carney had campaigned in the spring election on his capability to engage with the Trump administration. Poilievre's remarks aimed to underscore the significance of maintaining dialogue with the U.S. regarding trade issues.

In response to the criticism, Government House leader Steve MacKinnon shifted the focus away from Carney's comments, avoiding a direct answer to Poilievre's inquiries. Carney was not present in the House of Commons on Monday, having just returned from the G20 summit in South Africa earlier that day.

The exchange reflects ongoing tensions between the Conservative Party and the Prime Minister's office, particularly concerning international relations and trade policy. The comments made by Carney have raised questions about the government's approach to dealing with the U.S. administration, especially in light of the critical trade discussions that are currently stalled.

This report was first published on November 24, 2025.