Justin Trudeau reportedly preparing to resign as Canadian prime minister
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to step down as leader of the Liberal Party, according to a Sunday report by The Globe and Mail. Citing anonymous sources, the report suggests that Trudeau could announce his resignation before a key party meeting scheduled for Wednesday.
The potential resignation comes as Trudeau faces increasing dissatisfaction within his party, compounded by declining public approval ratings. Recent polls, including one by the Angus Reid Institute, placed his approval rating at a mere 28%, a sharp contrast to his once-strong popularity.
The Liberals are also struggling to counter a resurgent Conservative opposition ahead of the next federal election, raising concerns about their electoral viability under Trudeau’s leadership.
According to the report, Trudeau is looking to control the narrative surrounding his departure, aiming to avoid any perception of being forced out by party dissent.
It remains uncertain whether he will leave office immediately or stay on as prime minister while the Liberals navigate the process of selecting a new leader.
The race to succeed Trudeau is already stirring speculation, with potential candidates including Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, and former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney.
Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc has also been mentioned as a possible interim leader, though no official announcements have been made.
The calls for Trudeau’s resignation have intensified following the abrupt departure of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland last month.
Freeland, a prominent figure in Trudeau’s government, resigned after a reported clash with the prime minister over how to respond to potential U.S. tariffs. Describing her resignation as “the only honest and viable path,” Freeland’s exit marked a significant blow to Trudeau’s leadership at a critical juncture.