Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing a mounting political crisis, with public calls for his resignation on the rise and public support at an all-time low. Many members of his Liberal Party, at least 15 lawmakers, have publicly asked him to step down over his leadership style and economic challenges facing the country.
Pressure had been building earlier this week, with the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who had been a key ally of Trudeau. The deputy prime minister and finance minister, Freeland, expressed concerns over the prime minister’s approach to economic issues, particularly amid rising inflation and looming economic threats, such as the potential for a 25% tariff on Canadian imports proposed by US President-elect Donald Trump. Her resignation followed the housing minister’s, making the minority government unstable.
Despite these setbacks, Trudeau retained the support of his Cabinet when newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc stated that the prime minister has the “full confidence” of his ministers. However, the stability of the government remains fragile and is expected to be even more so after Trudeau announced a Cabinet shuffle soon, to take back control and address the nation’s priorities.
There is tension in the government, with a few ministers serving on dual portfolios following the recent exit of some. Flavio Volpe, the president of the Canadian Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, demanded strong leadership and said the country needs a strong leader to navigate this time of uncertainty.
In a further blow to his leadership, the New Democratic Party, which had up to this point supported the Liberal Party in passing legislation, said it was withdrawing its support. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has joined those asking for Trudeau’s resignation. Parliament is set to reconvene late next month, and the no-confidence vote that may result may also mean an election.
