OTTAWA — Some Liberal MPs are defending Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership style, describing him as tough when necessary but consistently respectful in their interactions. The defense comes amid reports that Carney has lashed out at caucus members, with one alleging he yelled at them.
Carney's Caucus Management Under Scrutiny
Carney's approach to managing his caucus has faced intense scrutiny following a Toronto Star report that he has yelled at members or dismissed their concerns. However, several ministers and MPs told the National Post this week that they have never witnessed such behavior.
Charlottetown MP Sean Casey described Carney as someone who can be "tough when appropriate" but not "tough for the sake of being tough." He added, "He has a good way with people, I would absolutely say that, and it's genuine. He's a no bullsh-t kind of person. If he says it, he means it."
High Standards and Respect
Sherbrooke MP Élisabeth Brière said she has never heard Carney yell, but acknowledged he holds high standards for his caucus. "Of course, he's demanding," she said. "As prime minister, you have to be."
The National Post previously reported that Carney quickly imposed his leadership style after taking office, running a tight ship with punctual meetings and a willingness to call out underperforming staff. One insider noted that Carney "does not suffer fools."
Montreal MP Anthony Housefather said Carney has always acted "respectfully" with caucus and appreciates the "back-and-forth" dialogue. Winnipeg MP Doug Eyolfson, mentioned in the Toronto Star report as being told not to raise concerns about Alberta's two-tier health care legislation, acknowledged a disagreement but said, "I'm glad that we can disagree and still have a good working relationship."
Other Incidents Dismissed
The Toronto Star also cited Nova Scotia MP Jaime Battiste receiving a rebuke over Indian Act changes and Laval MP Angelo Iacono being told Carney had already visited his riding. Culture Minister Marc Miller dismissed the report as "gossip," while Whitby MP Ryan Turnbull said he had never seen Carney act as described.
"He respects caucus, he regularly meets with us, and I think he would have a lot of trust in our caucus," said Turnbull. Speaking in Shawinigan, Quebec, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said Carney has "inspired" Canadians, citing a recent Postmedia-Léger poll showing Liberal support at 50%.
