Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to announce his resignation this week, amid growing pressure from members of his own Liberal Party. According to sources cited by The Globe and Mail, Trudeau may reveal his decision as early as Monday, ahead of a crucial caucus meeting on Wednesday. This timing would allow him to frame his departure as voluntary, avoiding the perception that he was forced out by internal dissent.
Trudeau’s leadership has faced increasing scrutiny following the recent resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. In a public letter, Freeland criticized Trudeau’s governance, sparking further calls for his resignation from party members. Since then, Trudeau has largely stayed out of the public eye, fueling speculation about his political future.
His departure comes at a critical moment for Canada, with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump set to take office in a few weeks. Trump has pledged to impose sweeping 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, a move that could severely impact the country’s economy. Trudeau’s resignation is expected to trigger a leadership battle within the Liberal Party, further complicating the government’s ability to respond to Trump’s trade threats.
Political turbulence is intensifying as Canada approaches its next federal election, which must take place by October 2025. Recent polling shows the opposition Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, enjoying a commanding 25-point lead over Trudeau’s Liberals. The poll also found that nearly 40% of Canadians believe Poilievre is better equipped to handle Trump’s aggressive trade policies, compared to just 14% for Trudeau.
Trudeau’s relationship with Trump has been contentious. The two leaders last met in November at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence, where they discussed trade and tariffs. While Trump described the meeting as productive, tensions quickly resurfaced. Shortly after, Trump mocked Trudeau in a social media post, referring to him as the “Governor of the Great State of Canada” and hinting at further economic challenges for the country.
Trump’s proposed tariffs, part of his broader border security agenda, include a 25% levy on all Canadian and Mexican imports. He claims the measure is necessary to combat drug trafficking and illegal immigration. These tariffs, if implemented, could have severe repercussions for Canada’s industries, from manufacturing to agriculture.
With Trudeau’s resignation imminent and the Liberal Party facing an uphill battle, Canada stands at a crossroads. The coming months will determine whether the country can navigate the economic and political challenges posed by Trump’s policies and internal political upheaval. The stage is set for a period of uncertainty that could reshape Canada’s future.
