Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his decision to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party. However, he will remain in his position until the party selects a new leader.
Facing intense pressure from Liberal legislators and declining public support, Trudeau revealed at a press conference that parliament would be suspended until March 24. This suspension ensures that Trudeau will continue as prime minister on January 20, when U.S. President-elect Donald Trump assumes office. Notably, Trump has previously threatened tariffs that could severely impact Canada’s economy.
“I intend to resign as party leader and prime minister once the party completes a nationwide, competitive leadership selection process,” Trudeau stated. “This country deserves a genuine choice in the next election. If I’m focused on internal struggles, I cannot be the best candidate for that fight,” he added.
Justin Trudeau, who took office in November 2015, has served as one of Canada’s longest-tenured prime ministers. He won re-election twice during his tenure. However, his popularity began to wane two years ago, driven by public frustration over rising costs and a housing crisis. Consequently, he has been unable to regain support.
Recent polls indicate the Liberal Party is on track to suffer a significant defeat to the opposition Conservatives in the next federal election. This election must occur by late October 2025. Even with a new leader, the party faces an uphill battle.
Initially scheduled to resume on January 27, parliament’s delayed return to March 24 will push any opposition-led non-confidence motions to May at the earliest. Opposition parties had been planning to bring down the government, citing the Liberals’ declining support and internal instability.
Trudeau’s position has become increasingly precarious following significant losses in last year’s by-elections. Furthermore, he has faced mounting criticism from within his party. Calls for his resignation intensified after a controversial attempt to demote Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Freeland, a key Trudeau ally, resigned in protest. She accused him of prioritizing “political gimmicks” over the nation’s needs.
The Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has gained momentum. Poilievre rose to prominence in 2022 for supporting truck drivers during protests against COVID-19 vaccine mandates in Ottawa. With a strong opposition and internal challenges, the Liberals face significant uncertainty in the coming months.
