Dozens of Liberal MPs Call for Trudeau's Resignation Amid Growing Party Turmoil

 

A significant number of MPs from Justin Trudeau’s Liberal party are now demanding his resignation following a series of political upheavals, including the shocking departure of his deputy, Chrystia Freeland, earlier this month. Over the weekend, Canadian media outlets reported that 51 of Ontario's 75 Liberal MPs met virtually and collectively agreed that Trudeau’s tenure as prime minister should come to an end.

This shift marks a major blow to Trudeau, as Ontario is the country’s most populous province and traditionally a stronghold for the Liberals. In total, 21 Liberal MPs have publicly called for the prime minister’s resignation since Freeland’s sudden exit on December 16. Freeland, who had served as deputy prime minister and finance minister, delivered a scathing letter to Trudeau, criticizing his failure to stand up to former U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs, which she argued could devastate Canada’s economy.

Freeland’s resignation has further deepened the political crisis, leading to the withdrawal of support from the New Democratic Party (NDP). NDP leader Jagmeet Singh confirmed that his party would push for Trudeau's ouster when the House of Commons reconvenes in January, setting the stage for a potential spring election if the NDP follows through.

Amid the fallout, Trump took to mocking Trudeau, calling him "Governor" and referring to Canada as the 51st U.S. state. He also took credit for Canada's newly announced border security plan, which seemed designed to address his tariff threats.

Inside the Liberal Party, there is little support for Trudeau continuing as leader through the next election. Many Ontario MPs expressed their belief that the prime minister should step down, though some have suggested he should do so voluntarily to allow for a smooth transition. Even Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Trudeau’s newly appointed housing minister, hinted that his future leadership would depend on finding a suitable successor.

Quebec Liberal MP Anthony Housefather echoed these sentiments, stating that the majority of MPs he has spoken with, both public and private, believe it is time for Trudeau to resign. There is growing concern that Trudeau’s continued leadership could become a liability in the next election, with some fearing that he would become the main issue voters focus on.

Should an election be triggered, Freeland, who indicated in her resignation letter that she intends to remain in politics, is seen as a strong potential contender for the Liberal leadership. Her decision to stay active in the political arena has fueled speculation that she may be positioning herself to succeed Trudeau as the party’s leader.