January 6, 2025: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly poised to resign as the leader of the Liberal Party, potentially as early as Monday, according to US broadcaster Fox News. This follows mounting internal and public pressure amid declining poll numbers and recent controversies within his administration.
The Mail and Globe, citing unnamed sources within Trudeau's administration, suggested that the prime minister could make a formal announcement this week. The Liberal Party is set to hold a caucus meeting on Wednesday, during which Trudeau’s leadership is expected to be a central topic of discussion.
While it remains unclear whether Trudeau will also step down as Canada’s prime minister, his resignation as party leader would trigger a leadership race. The new Liberal leader would then ascend to the role of prime minister, at least until the next general election.
The pressure on Trudeau has intensified since the abrupt resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on December 16. In a highly critical public letter, Freeland called out Trudeau's leadership style and policy decisions. Her departure marked a significant blow to Trudeau's government and sparked questions about its stability. Since then, Trudeau has largely remained out of the public eye, spending the holidays at a resort in western Canada without addressing the growing speculation.
Economic concerns have further eroded support for Trudeau’s government. A recent survey conducted by Nanos Research during the holiday period revealed that the Conservative Party has widened its lead over the Liberals heading into an election year. With stagnant economic growth and plummeting poll numbers, the Liberals currently hold 153 seats in Parliament but face the prospect of significant losses.
In response, the Liberal Party has launched pre-election campaign advertisements accusing the Conservatives of planning to cut social security programs. However, internal dissent and declining public confidence have placed Trudeau’s leadership under intense scrutiny.
If Trudeau steps down, it will mark the end of his nearly decade-long tenure as Liberal leader, which began in 2013 and saw him serve as Canada’s prime minister since 2015. His legacy includes progressive policies on climate change, immigration, and social equity, but also criticisms over economic management and handling of internal party issues.
As speculation mounts, all eyes are on Trudeau and the Liberal Party as they navigate a critical juncture in Canadian politics.