Trudeau Calls It Quits After Nine Years
In a surprising move, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation, leaving many in shock.
After over nine years in power, Trudeau made this big decision in Ottawa, after reflecting over the holiday season. He broke the news to his family during a Sunday night dinner, showing that this was a deeply personal choice.
Trudeau admitted that his party’s internal struggles were holding them back. “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it’s become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election,” he stated.
Despite calling himself a “fighter,” he believed that stepping down was the right thing to do to “reset” the heated political climate in Canada.
The Double Whammy: Freeland and Trump
The resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland last month was a critical blow to Trudeau’s tenure. Freeland, who might run for the top job herself, disagreed with Trudeau on how to handle incoming threats from the U.S. under Donald Trump. Trump had proposed a hefty 25% tariff on Canadian goods and publicly criticized Trudeau, adding to the pressure.
In response to Trudeau’s resignation, Trump suggested on Truth Social that Canada should join the U.S. to become the 51st state, a move he claimed would eliminate tariffs and bolster security against threats from Russia and China.
Trudeau’s Legacy and Regrets
Trudeau expressed regret over not changing Canada’s voting system, wishing citizens could rank their choices during elections. He highlighted this as one of many regrets he’s pondering as he leaves office.
During his time as PM, Trudeau wasn’t just about politics; he was also the eldest son of the charismatic former prime minister Pierre Trudeau. Before entering politics, he worked as a snowboard instructor, bartender, bouncer, and teacher. He made significant changes like Senate reforms, signing a new trade deal with the U.S., and introducing a carbon tax. He also legalized cannabis, addressed Indigenous issues, and allowed medically assisted suicide.
Personal Life and What’s Next
On a personal note, Trudeau separated from his wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, in 2023 after 18 years of marriage. They have three children together and plan to continue building their family with love and respect.
As Trudeau steps down, the Liberal Party will elect a new leader who will also serve as the next prime minister. Potential candidates include Freeland and former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney. The next general election must be called by late 2025.
Opposition Reactions
Opposition leaders had mixed reactions to Trudeau’s exit. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the Liberals, saying new faces won’t change their old policies. New Democrat leader Jagmeet Singh accused Trudeau and the Liberals of letting Canadians down on critical issues like housing and healthcare, especially in the face of Trump’s threats.