Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he will step down in the coming months after nine years at the helm, bowing to internal pressure following poor pre-election poll results for his Liberal Party.
Speaking outside his residence at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau stated that he would remain as prime minister and Liberal leader until the party elects a new chief in the upcoming months. He also declared that Parliament would be prorogued until March 24.
“This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election,” Trudeau said.
With the next federal election required by October 20, polls indicate a significant lead for the opposition Conservatives, fueled by public dissatisfaction over rising living costs and a shortage of affordable housing. An Ipsos Canada poll released on December 22 showed the Conservatives garnering 45% support among decided voters, with the Liberals and the New Democrats each at 20%.
Trudeau, 53, took office in November 2015 and is one of Canada’s longest-serving prime ministers. However, his popularity began to wane two years ago amid post-pandemic economic challenges, and his fortunes never recovered.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reacted to Trudeau’s announcement by reiterating previous remarks about Canada. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said, “The United States can no longer suffer the massive Trade Deficits and Subsidies that Canada needs to stay afloat. Justin Trudeau knew this, and resigned.”
The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada have raised concerns among Canadian businesses and provincial leaders. Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, stated, “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.”
As the Liberal Party prepares to select a new leader, Trudeau emphasized his commitment to the country. “I am not someone who backs away from a fight, particularly when a fight is as important as this one is,” he said. “But I have always been driven by my love for Canada … and it has become obvious to me with the internal battles that I cannot be the one to carry the Liberal standard into the next election.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
