Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his decision to step down as leader of the Liberal Party and as prime minister after the party elects a new leader.
Speaking from Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Trudeau stated, “I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process.”
He will continue serving as prime minister until March 24, after which his successor will take over. Trudeau also revealed that he had asked the governor general to delay the new parliamentary session, originally scheduled to begin on January 27, until March 24.
In his remarks, delivered in both English and French, Trudeau expressed his deep commitment to Canada, saying, “I’m a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians and this country. I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians.” He also shared that he had informed his children of his decision the night before.
This announcement comes amid political challenges, including the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland last month. Freeland cited policy disagreements with Trudeau regarding economic strategies to address U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs. In her resignation letter, Freeland called for Canada to adopt a united approach to counter “aggressive economic nationalism” from the U.S.
Freeland’s departure follows other changes within Trudeau’s Cabinet. Housing Minister Sean Fraser also announced he will not seek reelection, citing personal reasons and a desire to focus on family. Dominic LeBlanc, currently Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, has been appointed as the new finance minister.
Trudeau’s resignation comes as his party faces declining support, with the Liberals at their lowest polling levels in years. The Conservative Party currently holds a 21-point lead ahead of the next federal election, which must be held by October 20.
Trudeau, 53, has served as Canada’s 23rd prime minister since 2015, following in the footsteps of his father, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, who also served as prime minister in the late 20th century.
