Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party after nearly a decade in power, according to reports from the Globe and Mail and Toronto Star. Sources close to Trudeau suggest the announcement could come as early as Monday, amid growing dissent within his party and plummeting public support ahead of an impending federal election.
Trudeau's leadership has come under intense scrutiny as Canada grapples with record inflation, surging housing costs, and widespread voter dissatisfaction. Recent polling indicates the Liberal Party is at its lowest pre-election support in over a century, trailing far behind the opposition Conservatives. The strain within the party intensified in December when nearly two dozen Liberal MPs publicly called for Trudeau to step aside, citing fears of a catastrophic electoral defeat.
The departure of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland further destabilized Trudeau's government. Freeland, who had been a key figure in trade negotiations during Donald Trump's first presidency, resigned abruptly last month, warning of the challenges posed by Trump's expected return to the White House. In her resignation letter, Freeland criticized the government's preparedness, stating, "We need to take that threat extremely seriously."
Trump's looming presidency has cast a shadow over Trudeau's leadership. The former U.S. president has often mocked Trudeau, belittling him as the "governor" of Canada and joking that the country could become the 51st U.S. state. Despite Trudeau's attempts to build rapport, including a recent meeting at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, relations remain strained. Trump's proposals, such as a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, have added urgency to Canada's internal political crisis.
The opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, have capitalized on the Liberal Party's struggles. Poilievre has repeatedly called for an immediate election, accusing Trudeau of leading a government in disarray. "The government of Canada is itself spiraling out of control," Poilievre said, urging Trudeau to step down and pave the way for a new mandate.
Reports suggest Trudeau's decision to resign could come before an emergency meeting of Liberal legislators scheduled for Wednesday. Party insiders believe stepping down ahead of the meeting would allow Trudeau to frame his departure as voluntary rather than forced by internal pressure.
Trudeau's departure would mark the end of an era for the Liberal Party, which he led back to power in 2015 after years in opposition. His initial tenure was characterized by promises of progressive policies and international acclaim, but his popularity has waned significantly in recent years.
It remains unclear whether Trudeau would stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is selected or step aside immediately. The uncertainty has fueled speculation about the party's readiness to face the electorate under new leadership. An election must be held by October, though there are calls for it to be moved up to ensure a stable government amid mounting challenges.
