“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 admitted.
Liberal Party Faces Internal Collapse
When Trudeau assumed leadership of the Liberal Party in 2013, it was struggling, having been reduced to third place in the House of Commons. He revitalized the party in 2015 with promises of “sunny ways” and a progressive agenda focused on women’s rights and climate change.
However, in recent months, Trudeau’s popularity has plummeted. Rising costs, a housing crisis, and increasing crime have left many Canadians disillusioned with his policies. Internal dissent within the Liberal Party has also grown, with key allies pressuring him to step down.
Adding to the party’s struggles is the resignation of former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. In her public resignation letter, Freeland criticized Trudeau, intensifying the call for leadership change.
According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, over 50 Liberal MPs from Ontario – the party’s main stronghold – held a call in December and reached a consensus: Trudeau had to go.
Possible Successors
The Liberal Party now faces the challenge of finding a leader who can restore public confidence and lead them into a general election in October. Polls suggest the party is likely to face defeat.
