As he approaches ten years at the head of Canada, Justin Trudeau sees the progressive shine that propelled him in 2015 fade. Faced with scandals, political fatigue and a growing conservative opposition, he is facing growing pressure for a “walk in the snow”, a symbolic echo of the departure of his father, Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
But the question goes beyond the Trudeau case: are we witnessing the end of a progressive cycle in Canada, or is this simply a necessary transitional stage? The choice he makes will define not only his personal legacy, but also the political future of the country.
The weight of time: Trudeau facing wear and tear
Any leader, no matter how charismatic, cannot escape the wear and tear of power. In 2015, Trudeau embodied a renewal: young, inclusive, globalist.
Today, its image has been tarnished, marked by scandals (SNC-Lavalin, “blackface”) and unfulfilled promises. Voters, hit by inflation and the cost of living, yearn for change.
His refusal to give in could accentuate this perception of disconnection. On the other hand, stepping down could allow him to preserve his legacy while offering a necessary renewal to his party.
End of an era or simple transition?
The decline of progressives is not exclusive to Canada. Across the West, a conservative wave is gaining ground, fueled by economic concerns and a rejection of elites. Trudeau, symbol of globalism, has become the ideal target of these criticisms.
However, political cycles are dynamic. Younger generations remain committed to progressive ideals, such as climate and social justice.
-This setback may only be a pause, a period of readjustment for progressive forces, rather than a definitive end.
The decisive choice: persist or withdraw
Trudeau finds himself at a crucial crossroads. To persist is to bet on an improbable reversal, but to risk further weakening the Liberal Party. To withdraw is to open the way to renewal, provided that a credible successor emerges. Like his father, he could recognize the moment of an honorable departure.
If he stays, Trudeau will have to demonstrate that he can still provide relevant leadership in the face of Canada’s current economic, social and geopolitical challenges.
Justin Trudeau’s choice transcends his personal career: it reflects the future of progressivism in search of reinvention. Will he leave as guardian of a legacy or will he continue to fight an uncertain battle? As wisdom says so well: “The wheel turns, but the path remains the same”. Trudeau will have to decide if he continues to pedal through wear and tear or if he cedes the helm to a new generation.
Whatever he decides, this decision will remain a defining page in Canadian political history.
