Growing Discontent in Trudeau’s Liberal Party: Calls for Resignation Multiply

Department of Security and Military Research and Studies26-12-2024

Support for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is rapidly eroding within his own Liberal Party, with an increasing number of MPs urging him to step down following the recent high-profile resignation of his deputy. This shift signals a significant loss of loyalty from key party members.

Over the weekend, several Canadian media outlets, including the CBC and Toronto Star, reported that 51 Liberal MPs from Ontario convened virtually and collectively agreed that Trudeau’s tenure as prime minister should come to an end. This group represents a substantial portion of the province’s 75 Liberal MPs, underscoring the declining support in Ontario—a critical stronghold for the party.

Adding to the chaos, Trump publicly ridiculed Trudeau, referring to him as a “governor” and Canada as the “51st state.” He also claimed credit for Canada’s new border security measures, which appeared to be a response to his tariff threats.

According to the Toronto Star, none of the Ontario MPs at the virtual meeting advocated for Trudeau to remain Liberal leader for the next election. Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, recently appointed as housing minister in Trudeau’s cabinet reshuffle, suggested that Trudeau’s future depends on the availability of alternative leadership candidates. Some MPs proposed allowing Trudeau time to step down on his own terms.

Quebec Liberal MP Anthony Housefather expressed similar sentiments to the CBC, stating that the “vast majority” of MPs he has spoken with, whether publicly or privately, believe Trudeau should resign. Housefather warned that Trudeau’s continued leadership risks making him the focal point of voter dissatisfaction, potentially dooming the Liberals in the next election.

Meanwhile, speculation is growing about Freeland’s potential leadership aspirations. Sources indicated that her decision to remain in politics, as noted in her resignation letter, positions her as a likely contender for the party’s leadership if an election is triggered.