Canadian PM Justin Trudeau resigns after nearly a decade, citing internal party divisions and plummeting polls. His decision follows mounting opposition, economic woes, and calls for change within his party.
Ottawa, Canada – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after nearly a decade in office, citing internal divisions within his Liberal Party and a desire to provide voters with a clear choice in the next election. The announcement, made Monday, follows weeks of speculation regarding Trudeau’s political future amid plummeting poll ratings and mounting opposition.
Trudeau confirmed he will step down as both party leader and prime minister once the Liberals select a new leader. He also prorogued parliament until March 24, allowing his party time to regroup and prepare for leadership changes. “Parliament has been paralyzed for months,” Trudeau said. “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and if I’m fighting internal battles, I cannot be the best option.”
Once a charismatic and progressive leader, the 53-year-old Trudeau has faced increasing criticism from voters and party members. His approval ratings have plummeted to historic lows, with a December Angus Reid poll showing his party at just 16% support—the worst since he assumed leadership. Meanwhile, Trudeau’s personal disapproval rating soared to 74%, according to the pollster’s “Trudeau Tracker.”
Economic challenges, including soaring living costs, a housing affordability crisis, and backlash against record immigration levels intended to boost Canada’s post-pandemic economy, have eroded his support. The sudden resignation of Chrystia Freeland, a former finance minister and one-time close ally, in December further highlighted divisions within the Liberal Party. Freeland cited disputes over government spending as a factor in her decision, sparking renewed calls for Trudeau to step aside.
Trudeau’s decision to suspend parliament has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party—which currently holds a 25-point lead over the Liberals in polls—accused Trudeau of attempting to “trick voters by swapping in another Liberal face to keep ripping off Canadians.” Poilievre said the resignation was motivated not by principle but by a desire among Liberal members to salvage their political careers.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, whose party recently withdrew its support for the minority Liberal government, echoed this sentiment. Singh called Trudeau’s tenure a period of repeated disappointment for Canadians and stated that a change in Liberal leadership would not resolve the party’s failures. “They don’t deserve another chance,” Singh said.
Trudeau’s announcement had immediate financial implications. The Canadian dollar softened slightly to C$1.436 against the US dollar, near a five-year low, though it remained stronger overall due to a broader sell-off of the US dollar. The S&P/TSX Composite Index in Toronto recovered from early losses, climbing 0.3% by midday.
Trudeau, the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, came to power in 2015 as a fresh, progressive force, promising gender equality, climate action, and reconciliation with First Nations. Notable achievements included legalizing cannabis, welcoming Syrian refugees, and advancing social policies.
However, his tenure has been marred in recent years by economic difficulties, ethics controversies, and challenges navigating Canada’s relationship with its southern neighbor, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency. Trump, who has been critical of Trudeau in recent weeks, mocked his resignation on Truth Social, suggesting Canada could merge with the US to eliminate trade deficits and enhance security.
As Trudeau prepares to exit the political stage, the Liberal Party faces significant challenges in regaining public trust and positioning itself for the next election. For now, Canadians await the selection of a new Liberal leader who will likely contend with an emboldened opposition and widespread public dissatisfaction.
Trudeau expressed gratitude to Canadians and his colleagues for their support during his tenure. “It has been the honor of my life to serve as your prime minister,” he said.
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