Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to announce his resignation this week, marking a dramatic turn in the career of one of Canada’s most prominent political figures. According to a report by The Globe and Mail, Trudeau may step down as early as Monday, ahead of a national Liberal Party caucus meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
Citing three anonymous sources familiar with internal Liberal Party discussions, the newspaper suggests that Trudeau’s decision comes amidst growing discontent within his party and declining public support. The exact timeline for his resignation and whether he will serve in an interim capacity while the Liberals choose a new leader remains unclear.
A Political Legacy Under Strain
Trudeau, who first rose to power in 2015 on a wave of optimism and progressive promises, now finds himself at the center of political and public criticism. His popularity has dwindled significantly in recent months, with the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, surging ahead in public opinion polls by a significant 20-point margin.
The Trudeau government narrowly survived multiple no-confidence votes recently, a testament to the fractures within his administration. Critics from both the opposition and within his own ranks have called for his resignation, questioning his ability to lead the Liberals to victory in the next federal election, slated for October 2025.
Dissent Within the Liberal Party
Internal dissent reached a tipping point in December when Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned after a reported disagreement with Trudeau over his handling of trade relations with the United States. Freeland’s departure marked the first high-profile defection from Trudeau’s cabinet, fueling speculation about his weakening grip on the party.
The trade dispute with the United States has been a significant challenge for Trudeau. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, putting immense strain on Canada’s economy. In November, Trudeau traveled to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in an effort to avert a trade war, but the meeting failed to yield tangible results. Trump has since escalated tensions, taking to social media to mock Trudeau, even referring to Canada as a potential “51st U.S. state.”
Efforts to Stabilize Leadership
In an attempt to address the growing political turmoil, Trudeau reshuffled his cabinet in December, replacing a third of his team. While the move was intended to project stability and renewal, it did little to assuage critics who view his leadership as increasingly untenable.
Achievements and Controversies
Trudeau’s tenure as Prime Minister has been marked by significant achievements, including legalizing cannabis, implementing carbon pricing to combat climate change, and negotiating a new trade deal with the United States and Mexico. He also introduced landmark legislation permitting medically assisted suicide and led a public inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women.
However, his administration has not been without controversy. Allegations of ethical breaches, including the SNC-Lavalin scandal, and criticism over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic have cast shadows over his legacy.
From Political Star to Polarizing Figure
Trudeau’s rise to power was as meteoric as his recent decline. A former snowboard instructor, teacher, and bouncer, he entered politics in 2008, representing a working-class Montreal district in Parliament. His charm, charisma, and progressive policies earned him global recognition and brought the Liberal Party back to prominence after nearly a decade of Conservative rule.
Yet, as he approaches what could be the end of his political career, Trudeau’s leadership has become a polarizing topic. While some view him as a trailblazer for progressive policies, others see him as a leader who failed to adapt to the evolving political landscape.
What’s Next for Canada?
If Trudeau announces his resignation, the Liberal Party will face the formidable task of selecting a new leader capable of revitalizing the party and addressing the challenges facing the country. Speculation has already begun about potential successors, with names like Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne emerging as possible contenders.
Trudeau’s departure would mark the end of an era in Canadian politics, leaving a legacy that will be debated for years to come. Whether his resignation will stabilize the Liberal Party or deepen its divisions remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Canada braces for a new chapter as it navigates pressing economic, social, and geopolitical challenges.