Former minister Marco Mendicino will remain Mark Carney’s chief of staff through summer amid scrutiny over his cabinet record and political stance.
Mendicino to Continue as Chief of Staff Amid Transition
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Thursday that Marco Mendicino, former cabinet minister and ex-MP, will remain his chief of staff for the immediate future. Mendicino, appointed after Carney’s Liberal leadership victory in March, was initially expected to serve temporarily. Carney confirmed Mendicino’s extended role through the summer to support the launch of the government’s mandate and to manage the transition within the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
“As we prepare for the Throne Speech, I have asked Mr. Mendicino to stay into the summer to support the government’s mandate launch and lead the PMO transition on my behalf,” Carney wrote on social media. He thanked Mendicino for his “vital” support during the leadership race, election, and government transition.
Scrutiny Surrounding Mendicino’s Past Cabinet Role and Political Views
Mendicino’s appointment attracted criticism from opposition parties, focusing on his tenure as public safety minister and his positions on contentious issues, particularly the Middle East. The Conservative Party repeatedly called for his resignation following the controversial transfer of serial killer Paul Bernardo to a medium-security facility, an event that occurred under his watch.
Additionally, the New Democratic Party criticized Mendicino for being among the few Liberal MPs who opposed a House motion last year calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. These controversies have contributed to the ongoing debate about his suitability for the chief of staff role.
Mendicino’s Exit from Politics and Current Role
In early January, Mendicino announced he would not seek re-election, citing disagreements with the previous Trudeau government’s direction. Despite originally planning to return to Toronto, Mendicino agreed to take on the chief of staff role under Carney to facilitate a smooth government transition.
Pressure on Leadership Teams
Mendicino’s situation reflects wider scrutiny of political appointments and leadership choices amid an active and polarized political environment. Opposition parties have also intensified pressure on Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre to reconsider key staff appointments, such as Jenni Byrne, highlighting the contentious atmosphere within Canadian federal politics.
