Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing mounting pressure to step down from his position, nearly a decade after taking office. The crisis stems from recent events, including the resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland amidst tensions over potential US trade tariffs. Trudeau's approval ratings have fallen below 30 percent this year, a significant drop from the high points of his early career.
Trudeau's political rise was swift. A former secondary school teacher, he transitioned into various roles within charities and the Liberal Party before leading the party to a decisive victory in 2015. As the second-youngest prime minister in Canadian history, he inherited considerable initial popularity, even being lauded as the "new young face of Canadian politics" by Vogue.
His administration saw the legalization of assisted dying, recreational cannabis, and the Canada-United States-Mexico trade agreement, alongside an apology to Indigenous Canadians for the abuses at residential schools and the welcoming of refugees.
However, a 2019 blackface scandal significantly damaged Trudeau's image and public trust. Photos and videos emerged of him in blackface during his youth, prompting public condemnation and a serious erosion of support. His response, which included admitting to the incidents, did little to appease his critics.
The Liberal Party's narrow win in 2019, resulting in a minority government, presented further challenges. A snap election during a COVID-19 wave yielded no decisive majority. Concerns arose over Canada's handling of the pandemic, and the country's permissive euthanasia laws faced scrutiny, with advocates highlighting a need for greater governmental support for those in need of care instead.
Economic pressures also contributed to Trudeau's declining popularity. High immigration, soaring housing prices, and inflation further diminished public support. A recent announcement to reduce permanent migration in 2025 followed polling showing a majority of Canadians perceiving the country as being "broken" under his leadership.
Furthermore, the prospect of trade tariffs imposed by the incoming US President-elect, Donald Trump, has created a serious political hurdle. Trump's confrontational rhetoric, including labeling Trudeau as "Governor Justin Trudeau of the great state of Canada," has fueled speculation about potential conflicts if Trudeau remains in power.
The resignation of Chrystia Freeland, hours before the release of the country's economic plan, further underscores the deepening crisis. Reports suggest that Trudeau may announce his resignation as early as Monday. This development marks a significant turning point for the Canadian political landscape.
