Special Poll
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party on Monday. His decision marks a significant moment for Canadian politics, as it comes during a period of heightened instability in global democracies. In other parts of the world, Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently faced a confidence vote, and France has seen its government collapse in an unprecedented manner.
Trudeau’s resignation follows polling that suggests the Liberal Party is on track for a significant defeat in the upcoming election, expected by October. This stands in stark contrast to the widespread popularity he enjoyed when he first took office, with approval ratings exceeding 60%. Now, his government faces mounting criticism and waning support, prompting Trudeau to declare that parliament will be prorogued, or suspended, until March 24 while the party selects a new leader. He described this as “time for a reset.”
At a press conference in Ottawa, Trudeau announced his intention to step down as both party leader and prime minister once a new leader is chosen through what he described as a “robust nationwide, competitive process.” He stated that ongoing internal battles have made it clear he is no longer the best choice to lead his party into the next election. Despite stepping aside, Trudeau expressed gratitude for the resilience and determination of Canadians, though he criticized opposition leader Pierre Poilievre’s vision for the country as being unsuitable for Canada’s future.
Trudeau has led the Liberal Party for 11 years and served as Canada’s prime minister for nine. Recent polling shows his party with only 16% support among decided and leaning voters, reflecting significant dissatisfaction. His resignation also coincides with an emergency meeting of Liberal Party members set to take place later this week. Amid rising costs of living and growing concerns over immigration, his government has struggled to maintain public support. Last month, Trudeau faced another setback as multiple Cabinet members, including former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and housing minister Sean Fraser, stepped down.
Adding to the pressure, Canada has faced external challenges, including the threat of tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump. Trump has expressed concerns over immigration and drug trafficking, warning of potential tariffs on Canada and Mexico. This has sparked fears of inflation and a trade war. Trudeau’s government has responded with measures to strengthen border security, though these efforts have not eased domestic frustrations. Freeland, in her resignation letter, urged Canada’s leaders to address tariff threats seriously and avoid political gimmicks, referencing Trudeau’s recent policies such as a limited-time sales tax break and worker rebates.
Trudeau’s decision to step down mirrors the political trajectory of his father, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, who also resigned as Canada’s prime minister in 1984. This historic parallel underscores a turning point for the Trudeau legacy and Canadian politics.