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It looks like Justin Trudeau might be stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada as early as Monday, and Canadians have a lot of questions.
Reports suggest the announcement could happen this week, with Trudeau expected to address the nation from Rideau Cottage this morning.
Pressure on the Canadian PM to step down has been mounting recently, fuelled by political turmoil, dipping approval ratings and a growing cost-of-living crisis. The Globe and Mail reported on Sunday that sources said Trudeau would resign this week ahead of a caucus meeting on Wednesday.
But what does Trudeau’s resignation mean for Canada? And who will step up to lead the Liberals if he goes? Let’s break it down.
What happens if Trudeau resigns?
If Justin Trudeau resigns as leader of the Liberal Party, there are two big possibilities: The Liberals could either appoint an interim leader or hold a leadership race to pick a permanent replacement.
CTV News reports that a senior government source says Trudeau intends to stay on as prime minister until a new Liberal leader is appointed.
According to the Liberal Party’s constitution, if a leadership contest is on the table, the party’s national executive must meet within 27 days to set the rules. This could delay picking a permanent leader for months, which would get complicated if there’s a sudden election.
If the Liberals opt for an interim leader, this person could serve as both the party head and prime minister, at least temporarily.
Who could replace Trudeau?
A few names are already being tossed around, including former central banker Mark Carney, who’s seen as a heavy hitter thanks to his financial expertise.
Chrystia Freeland, the former finance minister and deputy prime minister who resigned last month in an explosive open letter to Trudeau, is also a top contender.
Then there’s current Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, whom the Globe reports has already been in discussions with Trudeau about stepping in as interim leader.
Whoever gets the top job next, the stakes are high. The next leader won’t just be inheriting Trudeau’s role — they’ll also be running point on the incoming Donald Trump administration and gearing up for a federal election in 2025.
Why is Trudeau resigning?
Let’s just say it’s been a tough few years for the prime minister. From internal party dissent to public backlash over inflation and housing affordability, Trudeau’s popularity has taken a hit. High-profile exits, like Chrystia Freeland stepping down in December, have only added fuel to the fire.
Even his relationship with the NDP, a key ally in his minority government, has soured. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh recently joined the growing list of politicians from all sides of the aisle calling for Trudeau’s resignation and stated the party’s intent to call a non-confidence vote early this year.
Meanwhile, recent polls show that under Trudeau, Liberal support has slipped to 20%, while the Conservatives are sitting comfortably at 44%.
With his own party members reportedly urging him to step aside, Trudeau’s decision seems like an attempt to control the narrative before it spirals further.
The next few days will set the stage for what’s to come, and all eyes are on Rideau Cottage as we wait for Trudeau’s big announcement. Stay tuned!
