Mark Carney, former head of Canada’s central bank and the Bank of England, announced his candidacy for prime minister following Justin Trudeau’s resignation.

Carney, 59, is praised for his economic expertise, particularly during the 2008 crisis, and his role in managing Brexit. He criticized Trudeau for losing focus on the economy and vowed to focus on it if elected.

Carney faces competition from ex-Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, with an election expected in the spring, the Associated Press has reported.

Carney also criticized Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and defended carbon pricing, suggesting an alternative if the tax is removed.

Written by B.C. Begley