For months, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced repeated questions about his political future: “Will you step down?” Despite his initial resolve to remain as the Liberal Party leader, growing frustrations among voters and his party members ultimately forced his hand.
On Monday, Trudeau announced his resignation in front of Rideau Cottage, his official residence for the past decade. He acknowledged that internal party battles had compromised his ability to lead effectively into the next election, stating, “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and if I’m fighting internal battles, I can’t be that choice.”
Trudeau will remain in office until a new leader is chosen, with the party expected to set a date soon. He has requested a suspension of parliament until March 24 to allow time for the transition.
Trudeau’s rise to power nearly a decade ago was marked by hope and optimism. In 2015, his youthful charisma and progressive message propelled the Liberals from a third-place party to a majority in parliament—an unprecedented feat in Canadian politics.
Now, at 53, Trudeau stands as the longest-serving G7 leader, outlasting contemporaries like Barack Obama, Angela Merkel, and David Cameron. However, his prolonged tenure has taken a toll on the Liberal Party’s fortunes, with his leadership increasingly seen as a liability.
Political journalist Paul Wells describes Trudeau as a “consequential” prime minister, particularly for his work on indigenous reconciliation and climate policy. However, Wells also notes that Trudeau struggled to stay in touch with shifting public opinion and adapt to changing times.
In his resignation speech, Trudeau highlighted his achievements, such as steering Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic, renegotiating a trade deal with the Trump administration, and implementing a child benefit that helped reduce poverty. Yet, his tenure was marred by ethical scandals and controversies, including the SNC-Lavalin affair and questionable government program management involving a charity with ties to his family.
The Liberals’ decline began with the 2019 election, where they lost their majority and were forced to rely on other parties to govern. A snap election in 2021 failed to improve their position. More recently, rising costs of living, inflation, and unmet promises further eroded public support.
Frustration over immigration policy missteps and the revelation of Trudeau’s past incidents of wearing blackface also fueled discontent. Voter fatigue with his leadership became evident during special elections this summer, where the Liberals lost in traditionally safe seats.
Facing mounting internal pressure, Trudeau conceded it was time for new leadership, stating, “It’s time for a reset” in Canadian politics. The Liberals now face the challenge of distancing themselves from Trudeau’s brand, which once fueled their success.
Polls indicate a surge in support for the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, who is positioned to win a potential election decisively. The political landscape remains uncertain as Canada prepares for the next election, which must occur by October. Both Poilievre and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh are pushing for an early vote.
Trudeau’s resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in Canadian politics, closing the book on nearly a decade of his leadership amidst a turbulent political and economic landscape.
