OTTAWA (Reuters) – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of the Liberal Party announced on Monday his decision to step down from his position in the coming months after nearly a decade in power. This move comes in response to mounting concerns among legislators regarding the party’s disappointing pre-election polling figures.
Reactions to Trudeau’s forthcoming resignation have been varied:
Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Opposition Conservative Party, expressed skepticism about the potential for real change, stating, “Nothing has changed. Every Liberal MP and leadership contender supported EVERYTHING Trudeau did for 9 years, and now they want to trick voters by swapping in another Liberal face to keep ripping off Canadians for another 4 years, just like Justin. The only way to fix what Liberals broke is a carbon tax election to elect common-sense Conservatives who will bring home Canada’s promise.”
Jagmeet Singh, leader of the opposition New Democratic Party, emphasized that the issues extended beyond Trudeau himself, remarking, “The problem is not just Justin Trudeau. It’s every minister that’s been calling the shots. It’s every Liberal MP that looked down their nose at Canadians who are worried about high costs or crumbling health care. The Liberals do not deserve another chance, no matter who is the leader.”
Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, highlighted the economic challenges facing Canada, particularly in light of potential tariffs from the United States, cautioning, “President-elect Trump continues to make real threats about imposing sweeping tariffs that would devastate Canada’s economy. Canada needs to demonstrate stability and strength at this critical moment, and the federal government must urgently explain to Canadians how they will avoid tariffs that could have devastating effects on our economy.”
Chrystia Freeland, former Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, expressed gratitude towards Trudeau for his service, stating, “I thank Justin Trudeau for his years of service to Canada and Canadians. I wish him and his family the very best.”
Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, commended Trudeau for his leadership and contributions to the country, saying, “Thank you Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for your leadership, for your many contributions to Canada, and for the sacrifices you and your family have made for public service. Wishing you the best for your next chapters.”
Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, noted the significance of Trudeau’s resignation and the need for unity in addressing current challenges, stating, “Prime Minister Justin Trudeau read the room and made the right call by announcing his resignation today. His resignation marks a turning point as Canada tackles unprecedented domestic and international challenges. Canada can’t afford inaction with so much at stake. Unity is key: political leaders, businesses, and communities must come together around our common opportunities. Canada’s next Prime Minister must hit the ground running and be laser-focused on strengthening the Canada-U.S. trade relationship.”
The announcement of Trudeau’s upcoming departure signals a period of transition for Canadian politics
