Canada Names Evan Solomon as First Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation

Image Credit: Andy Holmes | Splash

In a landmark move, Canada has established a dedicated cabinet position for artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Prime Minister Mark Carney appointed former journalist and newly elected Member of Parliament (MP) Evan Solomon as the country's first Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation on May 13, 2025.

Appointment Details

Evan Solomon, representing Toronto Centre, was elected to the House of Commons on April 28, 2025. Prior to his political career, Solomon was a prominent broadcaster, hosting programs on CBC and CTV. His appointment to the newly created ministry underscores the government's commitment to positioning Canada at the forefront of AI development and governance.

The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation was formed as part of Prime Minister Carney's broader cabinet reshuffle following the Liberal Party's recent election victory. This new ministry aims to centralize efforts related to AI policy, digital transformation, and technological advancement.

Policy Priorities

While the full mandate of the new ministry is forthcoming, the Liberal Party's 2025 election platform emphasized the importance of AI in driving economic growth, enhancing government services, and strengthening national security. Solomon is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA), part of Bill C-27, which seeks to regulate AI systems in Canada.

Industry leaders have highlighted Canada's robust AI research community but note challenges in commercializing these innovations. The new ministry is anticipated to develop strategies, including potential incentives, to encourage businesses to adopt AI technologies and to ensure that Canada remains competitive in the global AI landscape.

Canada's AI Ambitions

Prime Minister Carney has identified AI as a key driver of Canada's future economy. The establishment of this ministry reflects a strategic effort to invest in AI training, infrastructure, and ethical governance. By consolidating AI-related initiatives under a dedicated ministry, the government aims to streamline policy development and implementation, fostering innovation while safeguarding public interests.

Challenges Facing the Minister

Solomon's transition from journalism to a ministerial role in a highly technical field has sparked discussions regarding his qualifications. While he brings strong communication skills and a deep understanding of media, some critics point to his lack of formal AI expertise. Notably, in March 2025, Solomon faced scrutiny for briefly sharing a manipulated image of Prime Minister Carney on social media, an incident that underscores the complexities of misinformation in the digital age.

Effective collaboration with other ministers, particularly those overseeing industry and innovation, will be crucial to avoid policy overlaps and to ensure cohesive governance. Public sentiment remains mixed, with some praising the proactive approach to AI governance, while others express concerns about the ministry's direction and leadership.

Future Outlook

The creation of the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation marks a significant step in Canada's approach to emerging technologies. Minister Solomon's success will depend on his ability to translate policy objectives into actionable programs that balance innovation with ethical considerations. As the first country to establish such a ministry, Canada's model may serve as a reference for other nations navigating the complexities of AI governance.

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