Canada’s federal election campaign took center stage Wednesday night as the leaders of the four major political parties clashed in the first televised debate, sparring over domestic priorities and their stance on U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist agenda.

Held in Quebec and conducted in French, the high-stakes debate was a pivotal moment in the 36-day race, especially for Liberal leader and current Prime Minister Mark Carney. Quebec, with its significant number of parliamentary seats, is a crucial battleground for any party aiming to form government. The debate also marked Carney’s first major test on the national stage, where his weaker French proficiency and occasionally unclear responses were on full display in the rapid-fire exchanges.

Moderated by Radio-Canada journalist Patrice Roy, the debate opened with a direct reference to Trump’s outsized influence on Canadian politics. “Canada’s election has been hijacked by Trump,” Roy stated, urging candidates to focus on domestic issues. Nevertheless, discussion swiftly turned to Trump’s aggressive 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and his recent suggestion that Canada consider becoming the 51st U.S. state.

Carney, a former governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, leaned on his international experience to make the case for his leadership. “Trump respects those who understand global economics and the private sector,” he argued, positioning himself as the most qualified candidate to navigate cross-border tensions.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre took aim at Carney and the Liberal track record, blaming a decade of Liberal rule for leaving the country economically vulnerable. “You’ve weakened our economy,” Poilievre said, linking Carney to the legacy of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who resigned last month.

Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet, appealing to Quebec voters, dismissed any notion that the Liberals had undergone meaningful change. “Changing the leader doesn’t change the philosophy,” he said, casting doubt on the sincerity of Carney’s reformist message.

New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh criticized both Carney and Poilievre, accusing them of favoring the wealthy. “Neither of you will stand up for working Canadians,” Singh said. “Only the NDP will protect jobs and resist tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires.”

The debate included a few lighter moments as well. When asked if they were personally boycotting American products — a symbolic gesture some Canadians have embraced — Carney admitted he’s stopped buying U.S. wine. Singh and Blanchet said they prefer Canadian berries, while Poilievre joked that he’s sticking with Canadian beef.

Although the French-language debate had limited national reach, it was a key opportunity for Carney to prove himself under pressure. With a broader English-language debate scheduled for Thursday and polls showing a tight race, Carney must work quickly to solidify his support base and distinguish himself from his predecessor ahead of the April 28 election.