Prominent figure in Canadian politics and economics, Portuguese-Canadian Carlos Leitão, is making a political comeback as a Liberal candidate for the federal district of Marc-Aurèle-Fortin in Laval, one of Quebec’s largest cities.
With a population of approximately 110,000 voters—about two to three percent of whom are of Portuguese origin—the district is currently represented by Yves Robillard.
“This is a new chapter. I spent eight years representing Robert-Baldwin in western Montreal Island, and now I have accepted this challenge in Laval, a francophone and traditionally liberal area where I believe I can make a difference. I didn’t just come to make an appearance; I came to actively contribute,” stated the 69-year-old Portuguese Canadian candidate in an interview.
Born in Peniche, Carlos Leitão emigrated to Canada in 1975. He earned a degree in Economics from the prestigious McGill University and worked for three decades in the financial sector, including 20 years at the Royal Bank of Canada and ten years as chief economist at Laurentian Bank Securities.
In 2014, he entered provincial politics with the Quebec Liberal Party, holding the Finance portfolio until 2018 and serving as President of the Treasury Board between 2016 and 2017.
His return to federal politics comes at a time he considers critical for the country.
“President Trump’s arrival in the White House profoundly changed the bilateral relationship with the United States. For decades, Americans were reliable partners. Today, at best, they are unpredictable. We are in the midst of a trade war, which is causing a severe pullback in private investment and a sharp slowdown in the Canadian economy,” he warned.
According to Leitão, widespread uncertainty is stalling decisions.
“Companies have stopped investing. Consumers are postponing important decisions. Should we buy a car? Wait. A house? Maybe later. There is a kind of economic paralysis generated by the volatile environment from south of the border. And this, if it continues, could drag us into a recession this year.”
Advocating for a more diversified economy, the former minister deems a change of course crucial.
“Canada needs to free itself from dependency on the United States. We have learned brutally that we cannot be so exposed. The logical alternative is diversification—Europe, South America, Asia. It is no coincidence that Prime Minister Mark Carney chose Paris and London as the destination for his first official visit. The trade agreement with the European Union needs to gain new momentum,” he asserted.
When asked about the possibility of joining the executive if the Liberals win the elections, Leitão expressed his willingness.
“There are no guarantees or promises, but I will be ready to serve if called upon. I believe my experience as Finance Minister can be useful in discussing national economic policies.”
Regarding the campaign themes, he anticipates a debate focused on national issues.
“Federal campaigns rarely hinge on local issues. The trade war, foreign policy, economic response—these are the major axes of this election. In Quebec, there are always particularities, and I can contribute by bringing the province’s economic perspective to Ottawa. Quebec has a distinct economic structure compared to the rest of the country, and it is important for this voice to be heard,” he declared.
On the Portuguese community in the district where he is running, the Portuguese Canadian acknowledges that, although relatively small in the Sainte-Rose area, it is well represented in other parts of the city.
“Laval is a large suburb with four federal districts. The Portuguese community is dispersed but significant. We have a church, Nossa Senhora de Fátima, and many Portuguese people live here and work in Montreal. It is a hardworking, discreet community but present.”
As for solutions to the current economic situation, Leitão points to a cautious recovery.
“Inflation is more controlled, the Bank of Canada has already reduced interest rates twice this year, and this paves the way for a recovery in the second half of 2025. But everything depends on stabilizing trade relations. If the tariff war continues, we risk prolonging the slowdown.”
In addition to the economy, he emphasizes the importance of restoring democratic confidence and political stability.
“The country needs stable leadership and a clear vision for the coming years. With my experience, I can help formulate that vision and implement policies that serve Canadians’ interests.”
Leitão remained politically active after leaving the National Assembly of Quebec in 2022, having supported Frédéric Beauchemin’s candidacy for the leadership of the Quebec Liberal Party. His announcement of a federal candidacy represents, in his own words, “a return with purpose.”
“I am motivated. The country is at a decisive moment. It’s not just about returning to politics; it’s about participating in building a safer, more autonomous, and fairer future for Canada,” he concluded.
Canada will hold early federal elections on April 28, following Justin Trudeau’s resignation early this year.
Mark Carney was elected Liberal leader on March 9, assuming leadership of the Canadian government.
In a short time, the Liberals—who had been trailing in the polls since 2021—are now reemerging as the main favorites, potentially winning the majority of the country’s 343 electoral districts.
