The appointment came as a surprise to many in both the media and tech sectors. Former broadcaster Evan Solomon has been tapped to become Canada’s first-ever Minister of Artificial Intelligence, marking what Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called “a critical step forward in ensuring Canadian leadership in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.”
Solomon, best known for his roles hosting CBC’s Power & Politics and CTV’s Question Period, brings communication expertise rather than technical AI credentials to the newly created portfolio. The move signals Ottawa’s growing concern about both the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence as it reshapes industries, workplaces, and regulatory frameworks across the country.
“The pace of AI advancement demands a dedicated voice at the cabinet table,” Trudeau said during yesterday’s announcement. “Evan’s experience translating complex issues for Canadians will be invaluable as we navigate this transformative technology.”
Industry reaction has been mixed. The Canadian AI Association welcomed the creation of a dedicated ministry, with executive director Sarah Villeneuve noting that “having AI represented at the highest levels of government acknowledges its economic and social significance.” However, some technical experts have questioned whether Solomon’s media background adequately prepares him for the role’s technical demands.
“We’re entering an era where AI policy decisions require deep understanding of both the technology and its implications,” said Yoshua Bengio, scientific director at Montreal’s Mila-Quebec AI Institute. “While communication skills are important, the learning curve on technical aspects will be steep.”
Solomon himself acknowledged the challenge during his acceptance remarks. “I’m humbled by this responsibility and recognize there’s much to learn. But good governance of AI isn’t just a technical question—it’s about aligning this powerful technology with Canadian values and ensuring its benefits reach all Canadians.”
The appointment comes as Canada faces increasing pressure to solidify its early advantages in AI research. Despite being home to pioneering researchers like Geoffrey Hinton and having established early research hubs in Montreal, Toronto, and Edmonton, critics say Canada has lost ground to American and Chinese investments in commercializing AI technologies.
The new ministry will coordinate previously fragmented AI initiatives across government departments, from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada to the Privacy Commissioner’s office. According to briefing materials, Solomon’s mandate includes developing a national AI strategy, coordinating regulatory approaches, and representing Canada in international AI governance discussions.
Tech entrepreneur Allen Lau, co-founder of Wattpad, sees potential in the appointment despite initial skepticism. “Having someone who knows how to communicate complex issues might actually be what we need right now. The technical experts are already building AI—what we’re missing is someone who can bridge the gap between what’s happening in research labs and what ordinary Canadians understand about these technologies.”
Solomon’s appointment also arrives amid growing public concern about AI’s potential impacts. A recent Statistics Canada survey found that 68% of Canadians worry about AI’s effects on employment, while 72% expressed concerns about privacy implications.
“The technical challenges of AI are significant, but the social and ethical questions may be even more complex,” noted Teresa Scassa, Canada Research Chair in Information Law at the University of Ottawa. “Having someone who can facilitate public dialogue around these issues isn’t a bad thing.”
The new minister will face immediate tests, including implementing the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA), passed as part of Bill C-27 but not yet in force. The legislation aims to regulate high-risk AI systems while balancing innovation needs with safety concerns.
Business groups have cautiously welcomed the development. The Business Council of Canada issued a statement highlighting the need for “regulatory clarity that protects Canadians without stifling the innovation ecosystem that drives economic growth.”
Solomon’s first official duties will include representing Canada at next month’s Global AI Summit in Seoul, where countries will discuss emerging governance frameworks for artificial intelligence technologies.
For Solomon, the career pivot is dramatic
