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Trudeau Resigns as Canadian Prime Minister
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday after nearly a decade in power, citing internal party battles and rising discontent over his leadership.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during the 2017 Invictus Games opening ceremonies in Toronto, Canada Sept. 23, 2017. (DoD photo by EJ Hersom)
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, marking the end of his nearly decade-long tenure in power. Trudeau's decision comes amid rising discontent over his leadership and growing turmoil within his government, highlighted by the abrupt departure of his finance minister.
Trudeau, who was initially hailed for returning Canada to its liberal past, became deeply unpopular with voters in recent years over issues such as the soaring cost of food and housing, and surging immigration. He stated that ongoing "internal battles" have led him to conclude he cannot be the leader during the next elections.
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Despite his resignation, Trudeau plans to stay on as prime minister until a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen. He also announced that Parliament, which was set to resume on January 27, will be suspended until March 24 to facilitate the leadership race.
The Liberal Party will now begin the process of selecting a new leader, with party president Sachit Mehra expressing gratitude to Trudeau for delivering "transformational progress" for Canadians. Meanwhile, opposition leaders, including Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, have welcomed Trudeau's resignation while criticizing the Liberal Party's policies.
Trudeau's resignation comes at a difficult moment for Canada internationally, with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatening to impose tariffs on Canadian goods. Trudeau's legacy will be marked by his efforts to balance economic growth and environmental protection, as well as his championing of diversity and gender equality.
The search for Trudeau's successor is already underway, with speculation surrounding potential candidates. Trudeau's father, Pierre Trudeau, was a storied figure in Canadian politics, and Justin Trudeau's own legacy will be shaped by his time in office.
