OTTAWA — In a speech delivered with royal gravitas and the usual lack of elected accountability, King Charles III, still Canada’s head of state despite the 21st century happening outside, declared that the country is entering “a new stage,” one marked by fresh partnerships and alliances. The monarchy, however, remains in place, a constant in a country otherwise preparing for change.

While the monarch’s remarks were vague enough to be painted on a commemorative plate, they inspired cautious optimism in some quarters. That optimism was swiftly trampled by the Leader of the Opposition, Pierre Poilievre, who emerged from behind a microphone outside the House of Commons to declare his profound disappointment at the existence of hope.

“I heard slogans and political talking points, but no real plan,” Poilievre said, just before delivering several slogans and political talking points of his own. Our analysts are calling it his first documented act of consistency.

Despite the political games, some see this moment as a rare chance for national unity. Canadians from coast to coast appear to agree on at least one thing: the Americans are a growing concern. What exactly they’re concerned about remains unclear. Some point to Carney’s suspiciously warm rapport with Donald Trump and his quiet nod to the golden dome proposal as reasons to keep an eye on the fine print.

Yet in classic Canadian fashion, this promising new chapter appears to be unfolding with minimal involvement from Indigenous communities. A pattern that, despite all else, seems remarkably consistent.

As Canada steps into its so-called “new stage,” some citizens are left wondering whether this marks real progress, or simply the latest rewrite of a script that hasn’t changed much in generations.