Trudeau faces anxious caucus ahead of House return

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to meet with a concerned Liberal caucus in British Columbia, as party members seek clarity on the political challenges they face. Following a significant byelection loss in Toronto last June, the party's fortunes have continued to decline, exacerbated by the NDP's withdrawal from a political agreement that prevented an early election. With two byelections approaching on September 16 and a general election looming, MPs are anxious for a strategic plan from Trudeau to secure their positions. The Liberal Party has struggled in the polls for over a year, with the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, gaining traction amid rising public concerns about inflation and housing. Trudeau has attempted to reassure his caucus by highlighting ongoing initiatives, such as a national school food program and affordable childcare, which he claims are focused on addressing Canadians' needs. However, some MPs, like Wayne Long, express skepticism about Trudeau's leadership and its potential impact on the party's future. Long has publicly called for a change in leadership, suggesting that a campaign against Poilievre cannot be effectively led by Trudeau. He fears that a Trudeau-led campaign could dismantle the achievements of the past nine years. Despite the frustrations within the caucus, many members are still determined to fight for their seats in the upcoming election. The situation is further complicated by the NDP's recent decisions, which could influence the timing of the next election. As the caucus prepares for the meeting, the presence of potential leadership candidates like Mark Carney adds another layer of uncertainty to the party's future direction.