Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, citing a desire to step down after the party selects its new leader. Trudeau will remain in office until a new leader is chosen, with parliament suspended until March 24.
The decision comes amid mounting crises, including rising economic discontent and criticism from allies. A viral confrontation with a steel worker highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among Canadians. Last year’s surprise resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland also rocked Trudeau’s government.
Possible replacements for Trudeau include former Bank of England and Canada governor Mark Carney, foreign minister Mélanie Joly, and former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland. The new party leader hopes to revive the Liberals’ fortunes before a general election expected this fall.
Trudeau’s departure has been welcomed by some, but President-elect Donald Trump has seized on the opportunity to propose Canada merging with the US. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has also capitalized on Trudeau’s resignation, promising to take back control of the country and implement conservative policies.
Trudeau’s own vision for Canada’s future has been criticized by his opponents, who see it as too focused on progressive issues and not enough on traditional values. The Liberal Party’s loss of power and influence has raised concerns about the direction of the country under a new leader.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/06/americas/justin-trudeau-set-to-resign-canadian-prime-minister-intl/index.html