However, the mission promises to be perilous and, in light of current polls, almost impossible. Whoever embarks on this adventure must firmly believe in their ability to obtain an honorable result in the next elections, while hoping that party members will give them the time necessary to rebuild the Liberal Party of Canada (PLC) on a solid basis. five-year project. Without this conviction, applications risk being few in number.
In light of the statements, rumors and echoes coming from Ottawa, who could dare to take the risk of becoming leader of the PLC for just a few months? Let’s take a look at the personalities who have expressed an interest or who could do so.
Chrystia Freeland
She is the one who would have given the final push behind the Prime Minister’s back to encourage him to leave. Ms. Freeland has already expressed her intention to remain an MP and has made no secret of her ambitions to succeed Justin Trudeau.
She has strong support within the current caucus and could benefit from a quick run. However, her Achilles heel remains Justin Trudeau’s economic legacy, which she will have to carry throughout the race and, possibly, during an election campaign as former Minister of Finance.
She is therefore, ironically, Pierre Poilievre’s dream candidate, who would not have to modify his main lines of attack on inflation, the deficit or taxes.
François-Philippe Champagne, Mélanie Joly and Anita Anand
Even though Ms. Freeland has a lot of support, she is not unanimous. It would therefore not be surprising if other members of the council of ministers join the race.
François-Philippe Champagne has often expressed his ambition to one day lead the PLC like his mentor, Jean Chrétien. It remains to be seen whether he will participate immediately or wait for another opportunity, especially if the next boss only holds the wheel for a few months.
Mélanie Joly, whose name has been circulating for a while, could also try her luck. Its “potential” was even the subject of an article in the New York Times recently. This article would have displeased Justin Trudeau’s entourage so much that he would have proposed responsibility for relations with the United States to Ms. Freeland, thus removing a key issue from Ms. Joly’s mandate in Foreign Affairs.
With Trudeau’s resignation, it seems likely that she could go for it. However, aware of the current challenges and the alternation between Quebec leaders and those from other provinces within the PLC, she could decide to say: “See you next time.”
For Anita Anand, MP for Oakville, the situation could be different. Known for her effectiveness, particularly in managing supplies during the pandemic, she could appeal to those who wish to avoid Freeland’s association with Trudeau’s unpopularity, while supporting an experienced candidate.
However, it suffers from a significant lack of awareness. In a fragmented race, however, she could benefit from a split vote between candidates like Freeland and Carney.
Mark Carney
Former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Mark Carney has reportedly made more calls in recent days.
His economic experience gives him unrivaled credibility among potential candidates, but his lack of charisma and notoriety constitutes a serious handicap.
Many might see him more as Minister of Finance than as Prime Minister. Also, his recent role as economic advisor to Trudeau could raise questions, particularly about his participation in unpopular decisions, such as the GST holiday or the $250 checks promised for April (and unlikely).
Despite everything, he remains a serious external candidate, well prepared and capable of participating in the economic debate that the conservatives will certainly propose to the electorate.
Christy Clark
Former premier of British Columbia, Christy Clark is the only one on this list to have already governed without a direct link to the current PLC. Representative of a center-right liberal movement, she would offer a real break with the Trudeau era.
However, his level of French, currently improving thanks to intensive lessons, could pose a problem if the race takes place quickly. Time will tell if she will take this ambitious bet.
The rules of the race and its duration will be determining factors in who dares to try to overturn polls that currently give the conservatives a 25% lead. Time is running out for Liberals who have until March 24 to choose a leader without taking the risk of being overthrown in the House without having a new face to present in the election.
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