While the U.S. is currently enduring political chaos, it’s northern neighbor Canada is dealing with its own set of challenges in the wake of Justin Trudeau’s resignation.
After months of calls to resign due to controversies and dissatisfaction with the economy and other issues, Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on January 6, nearly one decade after his appointment.
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Trudeau, the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, began his political career in 2008 after being elected into the House of Commons. After working his way up in the Liberal party he became the party leader in 2013 before becoming Prime Minister in 2015.
During his time as Prime Minister, Trudeau prioritized diversity and reconciliation with Indigenous communities. Additionally, he made fighting climate change a priority, implementing carbon taxes to cut back on greenhouse gases in the environment. Trudeau emphasized his vision to move Canada forward – creating new trading policies, a clean environment and equality for all Canadians.
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The Fall
Trudeau’s administration wasn’t always successful, and in recent years he’s faced criticism for his personal antics and his response to Canada’s crises.
During the COVID-19 pandemic Trudeau supported mandatory mask wearing and vaccines, which was controversial with some citizens. The pandemic worsened inflation, contributing to Canada’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis. In 2022 the Convoy protests began, with blockades and protests against vaccine mandates.
To shut these protests down Trudeau invoked the 1988 Emergencies Act– using federal power to shut down the protests. This move was met with controversy in Canada with many feeling that he was overstepping his power in dealing with the conflict.
The problem with inflation continued to increase with the cost of living crisis getting worse, and many young people struggling to find homes. According to Statistique Canada, about 20% of the population was living in unaffordable housing, and around 45% of Canadians were worried about making ends meet.
Canada’s problems weren’t limited to domestic issues, and troubles with the U.S. government created internal conflicts within Trudeau’s inner circle. President Donald Trump has proposed a 25% tariff on Canadian goods as well as the possibility of acquiring Canada as the 51st state. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland quit in December, 2024, citing disputes with Trudeau over how to deal with the new administration.
The Aftermath
What the future holds for Canada’s political future is unsure, but it’s undeniable that the country is dealing with many changes. Reports have stated that under Trudeau’s leadership the Liberal Party would suffer a detrimental loss to the Conservatives in the October election. The conservative party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has been growing in power, feeding off of the dissatisfaction of Canadians with their quality of life.
The party has promised to strengthen borders, restore the economy, and restore “freedom” in Canada. Trudeau has criticized the party, citing that their plan for Canada’s future lacks optimism and is a step back in terms of diversity and climate change.
As for the liberal party, in March they’ll pick their next Prime Minister. Currently six contenders have been approved, after receiving the mandatory 300 signatures from registered liberals and paying the initial $50,000 fee.
October 20 will be Canada’s general election, and currently the Conservatives have the lead, while the Liberals have a chance for recovery. It’s certain that Canada needed a change, and the conflict with Trump only sped up Trudeau’s downfall. Trudeau will be remembered for his commitment to equality, but ultimately he fell flat in dealing with the cost of living and the economy that’s struggling to grow. Many Canadians have been pushed into an uncomfortable position, and hopefully in October, regardless of what party wins, positive changes will be seen.
“ This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it is become clear to me that, if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.” - Justin Trudeau
