Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s former Deputy Prime Minister and an influential figure in trade negotiations, officially launched her campaign to become the country's next Prime Minister.

The announcement took place in Toronto on Sunday and was marked by her explicit warning about the 'existential risk' posed by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies to Canada.

Freeland positioned herself as an experienced negotiator, emphasizing her previous role in renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) during Trump’s presidency.

During her campaign launch, she vowed to respond decisively to any U.S. tariffs proposed by Trump, describing such a scenario as potentially delivering the largest trade impact the United States has ever faced.

Her staunch rhetoric highlighted her belief in resilient Canadian trade policies, stressing Canada's identity as the U.S.'s 'neighbor and most important trading partner.'

Freeland's resignation from her position as Finance Minister last month triggered the leadership race, following a dispute with then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over handling potential U.S. tariffs.

Despite their past collaboration in government, with Freeland serving in senior cabinet roles under Trudeau for nearly a decade, her campaign must now address public skepticism and distinguish her leadership from her predecessor's unpopular policies.

The launch event also witnessed a brief disruption by pro-Palestine protesters, which underscored the diverse challenges and opposition within her campaign.

Meanwhile, Mark Carney, her key rival and former governor of the Bank of Canada, received an endorsement from Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, highlighting his experience during economic crises.

Central to Freeland's campaign is her portrayal as a 'battle tested leader' capable of handling the complex trade dynamics with the U.S. In contrast, the Liberal Party faces internal debates on whether to prioritize an experienced negotiator or a veteran economist like Carney, who is perceived to have the expertise needed for economic resilience.

As the race unfolds, the eventual Liberal candidate must navigate public sentiment dissatisfied with the current government, while challenging opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who remains a formidable contender in the upcoming national election.

Freeland has criticized Poilievre for what she perceives as his inability to oppose Trump's influence effectively.

Freeland’s campaign, including her video and speeches, stresses a strong anti-Trump narrative and aims to bolster Canadian national identity amidst growing protectionist sentiments.

Her strategy involves engaging both English and French-speaking voters with her 'Free Land' theme, aiming to connect her candidacy with patriotic values across the nation.