Canadian PM Justin Trudeau Expected to Resign Amid Political Turmoil
Liberal Party Faces Leadership Shake-Up Ahead of National Caucus Meeting
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to step down from his position, with an announcement expected as early as Monday, according to Canadian media reports.
Resignation Expected Before National Caucus Meeting
The news, first reported by The Globe and Mail, cites three anonymous sources. While the exact timing remains uncertain, Trudeau is expected to resign ahead of the Liberal Party’s national caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
Declining Popularity and Political Challenges
Trudeau’s reported decision comes amidst declining approval ratings and significant challenges for Canada. According to a Dec. 24 poll by Angus Reid, Trudeau’s disapproval rate stands at 68%, with only 28% of Canadians supporting him. The country continues to grapple with a housing crisis, high inflation, and a declining per-capita GDP.
No-Confidence Votes and Cabinet Resignations
In recent months, Trudeau has faced increasing political difficulties. In September, he survived a no-confidence vote initiated by the Conservative Party. However, his position weakened further after Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned from his Cabinet on Dec. 16. In her resignation letter, Freeland emphasized a lack of alignment with Trudeau’s leadership direction, calling her departure the “honest and viable path” for Canada.
“Our country is facing a grave challenge,” Freeland wrote. “That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war.”
Opposition and Criticism
Adding to his challenges, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh announced plans to introduce a motion of no confidence in January. Singh stated that regardless of who leads the Liberal Party, “this government’s time is up.”
Trudeau has also faced personal criticism. In November, he attended a Taylor Swift concert in Toronto while violent protests erupted in Montreal. The incident sparked backlash, with MP Don Stewart accusing Trudeau of neglecting pressing national issues.
“Lawless protesters run roughshod over Montreal in violent protest. The Prime Minister dances,” Stewart wrote. “Bring back law and order, safe streets, and communities in the Canada we once knew and loved.”
Future of Canada’s Leadership
Trudeau’s resignation, if confirmed, will mark the end of a significant era in Canadian politics. Trudeau, who first took office in 2015, has been a polarizing figure, leading Canada through several high-profile domestic and international challenges.
As Canada prepares for a national election on Oct. 20, the Liberal Party must address internal divisions and regain public trust to remain competitive.
