Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced one of the most challenging weeks of his political career, capped by the sudden resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Her unexpected departure, mere hours before delivering an economic statement in Parliament, has intensified the mounting pressure on Trudeau’s leadership. Despite the setbacks, Trudeau projected a defiant stance at the Liberal Party’s annual holiday gathering, addressing members with calls for ambition and resilience while criticizing his political rival, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
Trudeau’s determined tone comes amid escalating opposition, including an announcement by New Democrat Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh to introduce a motion to topple Trudeau’s government in the new year. The NDP’s support has been critical in keeping the Liberals in power, making an election increasingly likely. While Trudeau has signaled no immediate plans to resign, reports suggest he may use the winter holiday to reflect on his future course.
Over his nine years as Prime Minister, Trudeau has weathered numerous controversies, from ethics scandals to political missteps. Yet, his ability to defy the odds and retain power has often been attributed to his resilience and a fighting spirit inherited from his father, former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau. In 2015, he overcame widespread skepticism to lead the Liberals from third place to a majority government. This pattern of overcoming challenges has defined his leadership, but the current crisis has brought unprecedented strain.
Freeland’s resignation marks a pivotal moment, with analysts debating its implications for Trudeau’s tenure. Historically, no Canadian Prime Minister, except Sir John A. MacDonald, has secured four consecutive terms. Trudeau also faces declining approval ratings, with a September Ipsos poll showing two-thirds of Canadians disapprove of his leadership. Additionally, at least 18 Liberal MPs have publicly called for Trudeau to step down, signaling growing discontent within his party.
New Brunswick MP Wayne Long described the situation as untenable, urging Trudeau to step aside for the party’s and the country’s benefit. According to reports, nearly a third of Liberal MPs are pushing for his immediate resignation, while another third remain loyal, and the rest are undecided. Political observers suggest Trudeau’s resolve to stay in power is partly fueled by his disdain for Poilievre, who has emerged as a formidable challenger.
Comparisons have been drawn between Trudeau’s predicament and that of U.S. President Joe Biden, who faced similar calls to abandon his candidacy before ultimately yielding to internal party pressure. Like Biden, Trudeau’s legacy could hinge on his decision to step aside or fight on. While his father opted to resign in 1984 after dire polling suggested he couldn’t win another term, it remains uncertain whether Trudeau will follow a similar path.
The phrase “walk in the snow,” synonymous with political resignation in Canada, originates from Pierre Trudeau’s contemplative decision to step down. As Christmas approaches, Canadians are left wondering if Justin Trudeau will take his own metaphorical walk in the snow or choose to persevere against the odds.
