Carney, Freeland lead Liberal MP endorsements as leadership race solidifies – National [Video]

Liberal lawmakers defended their endorsements of candidates to replace outgoing leader Justin Trudeau on Thursday, after the deadline for joining the race passed.

Liberal MPs said they have party unity, President Donald Trump’s tariff threats and the economy top of mind as they decide on their next leader. Most have rallied around the two presumed front runners: former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and former central banker Mark Carney.

The federal Liberal caucus huddled on Parliament Hill Thursday to discuss next steps as leadership aspirants wined and dined party members at social events in Ottawa.

Dozens of MPs and cabinet ministers have now announced which horses they’re backing. Roughly 20 are supporting Freeland — they include Justice Minister Arif Virani — and more than 30 have lined up behind Carney, including Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly.

Ben Carr said Freeland treated him as an equal and made time for him when he was a …