Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday his intention to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party and, consequently, as prime minister.
Trudeau stated he would remain in office until the party selects a new leader through a “robust process,” signaling the end of an era that began with his election in 2015.
The announcement comes amidst declining popularity and growing political challenges, marking a critical juncture for Canada’s political landscape.
Speaking at a press conference, Trudeau, 53, confirmed his decision, saying,
“I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister after the party selects its next leader through a robust process.”
He also revealed that the Canadian parliament would be prorogued until March, effectively pausing legislative activities during this transitional period.
Trudeau resigns: declining support and political turmoil
The decision follows weeks of speculation fueled by domestic media reports that suggested Trudeau was planning to resign ahead of a crucial national caucus meeting on Wednesday.
His leadership has been under intense scrutiny, with voter approval for both him and the Liberal Party reaching historic lows.
Recent polls from Angus Reid placed Liberal support at just 16%, the weakest level since tracking began in 2014, while the opposition Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, now holds a commanding 20% lead.
Trudeau’s political troubles intensified after the abrupt resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland in December.
Freeland, a close ally of Trudeau, cited irreconcilable differences over Canada’s response to US trade policies under the incoming Trump administration.
Her departure dealt a severe blow to the government, forcing Trudeau to appoint Dominic LeBlanc as her replacement.
Freeland’s resignation highlighted internal fractures within Trudeau’s government, with disagreements over how to address the United States’ “America First” policies under President-elect Donald Trump.
Freeland had warned of serious economic challenges stemming from potential US tariffs and called for a stronger stance to protect Canadian jobs and investment.
“We need to take that threat very seriously,” Freeland stated in her resignation letter, urging a robust response to US economic nationalism.
Her departure further eroded public confidence in Trudeau’s leadership, which had already been weakened by Canada’s economic struggles, including rising household debt, increasing unemployment, and poor productivity performance in 2023.
Adding to Trudeau’s woes, Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), announced plans to introduce a motion of no confidence to force an early election.
Singh criticized Trudeau’s leadership, stating, “Justin Trudeau has failed in the most important task beholden to a prime minister: working for the people and not for the powerful.”
Trudeau’s announcement ushers in a period of uncertainty for Canada’s Liberal Party and the nation as a whole.
The party must now rally behind a new leader to rebuild voter confidence and prepare for the next general election, expected by October.
Meanwhile, the opposition Conservatives, buoyed by strong polling and endorsements from figures like Elon Musk, are poised to capitalize on the Liberal Party’s struggles.
As Trudeau prepares to exit the political stage, his legacy will be shaped by both his accomplishments and the challenges that marked his tenure.
For Canada, the coming months will be critical in determining the country’s political and economic trajectory.
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