Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is grappling with escalating internal dissent as members of his Liberal Party publicly and privately call for his resignation. The discontent stems from a series of electoral losses, plunging poll numbers, and the looming challenges posed by President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Calls for Trudeau to Step Aside Intensify
The push to replace Trudeau intensified over the weekend, with 51 members of the Ontario Liberal caucus urging him to resign, according to reports from CBC News and The Toronto Star. Prominent voices like Toronto MP Rob Oliphant and former Environment Minister Catherine McKenna have openly called for Trudeau to step down, citing the need for “new energy and leadership” ahead of the 2025 federal election.
McKenna, who first voiced her concerns over the summer, recently doubled down, urging all Liberal MPs to demand Trudeau’s exit.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland’s abrupt resignation on December 16 further fueled speculation about Trudeau’s political future. Freeland’s departure is widely seen as a signal of discontent within the upper echelons of the party, leaving Trudeau’s Cabinet shaken as it faces mounting challenges.
Electoral Losses Shake Liberal Confidence
The Liberals’ grip on power has been further weakened by a series of by-election defeats, including in traditional strongholds like Toronto and Montreal. The party’s loss in the Cloverdale-Langley City riding in British Columbia, a swing district, served as yet another blow to morale.
Polls suggest Trudeau’s support among Canadians has plummeted. An Abacus Data survey revealed that 57% of residents in Liberal-held ridings want Trudeau to step aside. Another poll last week showed 45% of committed voters backing the Conservatives, marking their largest lead since 2015.
Pierre Poilievre Rises as Trudeau’s Chief Rival
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has capitalized on the Liberals’ struggles with a campaign message distilled into four key promises: “Axe the tax, build the homes, fix the budget, stop the crime.” His populist rhetoric and sharp communication style have resonated with voters, positioning him as a formidable opponent.
Poilievre has also criticized Trudeau for clinging to power during a critical time. “The Prime Minister continues to cling desperately to power,” Poilievre said, warning that Canada is unprepared for the tariff war President-elect Trump has threatened to initiate.
What’s Next for the Liberals?
Trudeau, who turns 53 on Christmas Day, has shown no signs of stepping down despite mounting pressure. Reports suggest he plans to retreat to British Columbia over the holidays, where he will reflect on his future.
The Liberals now face a critical decision: whether to rally behind their embattled leader or risk further electoral losses by delaying a leadership transition. With Trump’s return to the White House weeks away, the party’s ability to manage trade and diplomatic challenges could define its fate.
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