Trudeau resigns as Liberal leader


Key information

  • Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly ready to announce his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party.
  • This decision comes against a backdrop of falling polls and public disapproval, with calls for Trudeau’s departure having intensified since December.
  • The early end of Trudeau’s term coincides with Donald Trump’s return to the White House, creating increased uncertainty for Canada and its largest trading partner.

Reports indicate that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to announce his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party as early as Monday. Sources speaking to The Globe and Mail and Reuters reveal that Trudeau intends to confirm the decision before a major Liberal caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday.

The announcement comes at a critical time, with polls predicting a substantial loss for the Liberals in the upcoming election, which is due to be held by the end of October. The party currently faces uncertainty over its leadership and public disapproval.

Uncertainty about leadership

Although Trudeau has not made a final decision on his resignation, sources close to him suggest he is seriously considering stepping down. It is not yet clear whether he will immediately relinquish his post as prime minister or whether he will remain in office until a successor is chosen.

Calls for Trudeau’s departure have intensified since December, fueled by falling polls and concerns over Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian goods. In December, a group of 15 MPs staged a mini-revolt following the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, a former deputy prime minister and longtime Trudeau ally. Ms. Freeland had publicly criticized Trudeau’s leadership, accusing him of favoring political maneuvering to the detriment of the country’s interests.

A story of electoral success and decline in popularity

Trudeau, who has led the Liberals since 2013, enjoyed electoral success in 2015, 2019 and 2021, campaigning on a progressive agenda emphasizing climate change and women’s rights. However, his popularity has weakened considerably this election year, trailing his conservative rival Pierre Poilievre by a substantial margin in opinion polls.

The early end of Trudeau’s nine-year term coincides with Donald Trump’s return to the White House, creating increased uncertainty for Canada and its largest trading partner. Last month, Trump threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, citing their failure to combat illegal immigration. This potential economic hit comes at a time when Canadians are grappling with the rising cost of living, soaring real estate prices, a 7 per cent unemployment rate and strains on the health-care system.

Economic challenges and immigration policy

The Liberals’ controversial immigration policy further exacerbated the situation, leading to the arrival of hundreds of thousands of new arrivals and intensifying pressure on the housing market, sparking public discontent.

Trudeau’s potential resignation is likely to spark calls for a quick election to put in place a stable government capable of handling the challenges posed by Trump’s administration. Sources say Trudeau has begun discussions with Dominic LeBlanc, the new finance minister, about his willingness to serve as leader and interim prime minister. However, this arrangement would be problematic if LeBlanc intended to run for the leadership position.

Leadership Criticisms and Government Challenges

Last week, former senior civil servant Kevin Lynch criticized the Trudeau government for squandering Canada’s tax advantage, weakening its military, undermining its immigration system and neglecting productivity amid economic, geopolitical and security threats increasing. He accused Trudeau of presiding over a “non-functional” parliament, paralyzed by a two-month impasse over the government’s refusal to release documents related to its failed green technology fund.

If you want access to all articles, subscribe here!

-

-

PREV a political journey marked by shocking statements and numerous convictions for hate speech
NEXT Potentials 2025 NHL Draft Prospects for the Montreal Canadiens