Justin Trudeau steps down as Canadian prime minister amid public outrage

Canada has witnessed significant political turmoil as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation from the leadership of the Liberal Party and as prime minister. This decision comes after nearly a decade of leadership, in which Trudeau's popularity has significantly declined. Recent events, including the resignation of key figures in his government and growing public discontent over economic issues such as soaring inflation and housing prices, have contributed to a declining approval rating for the prime minister. A recent poll indicated that 73 percent of Canadians believed he should resign, including a substantial number of his own Liberal voters. In light of these challenges, Trudeau stated that he would remain in both leadership positions until a replacement is chosen through a party election. In recent months, Trudeau has faced mounting criticism from opposition parties, particularly regarding his administration's handling of the economy and relations with the United States. Tensions reached a peak following the announcement of President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on Canadian imports, which added pressure on Trudeau's government. This situation was exacerbated by the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, the former deputy prime minister and finance minister, who critiqued Trudeau's leadership and questioned the government's strategy in dealing with the upcoming Trump administration. Historically, Trudeau has been recognized for progressive policies, including legalizing recreational cannabis and apologizing to Indigenous Canadians for historical injustices. However, his administration has struggled with various scandals, including a blackface controversy, which contributed to a decline in public support. A series of confidence votes and internal party unrest has only intensified calls for his resignation, illustrating a coalition of discontent not only from the public but also within his party. As Trudeau prepares to resign, the Liberal Party faces the challenge of selecting a new leader during a turbulent period. The implications of this transition could significantly impact Canada's political landscape as the country gears up for its next federal election, which must take place by October 2025. The Liberal Party will need to strategize effectively to regain confidence from the electorate amid escalating economic pressure and political uncertainty.