Justin Trudeau faces resignation rumors amid political turmoil and waning popularity

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called a press conference for Monday morning, fueling speculation about his possible resignation after nearly a decade in office. This follows a period of plunging poll numbers, mounting opposition from within his own Liberal party, and broader dissatisfaction among Canadian voters.

Reports from Canadian media, including the CBC, suggest Trudeau may step down, potentially triggering a leadership race within the Liberal party ahead of a general election. While the election is mandated to occur by October this year, it could be called earlier depending on the political landscape.

The New Democratic Party (NDP), a key ally of Trudeau's minority government, recently withdrew its support, with NDP leader Jagmeet Singh signaling the party might back a no-confidence motion in Parliament. This could lead to the collapse of the Liberal government and hasten an early election. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, whose party currently leads the Liberals by 25 points in polls, has repeatedly urged Trudeau to resign, citing Canada's pressing challenges, including its strained relationship with the United States.

Trudeau, the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, became Liberal party leader in 2013 and swept to power in 2015, promising a progressive agenda. His administration championed gender equality, reconciliation with First Nations, and environmental action, while also welcoming 25,000 Syrian refugees amid global unrest.

However, recent years have seen Trudeau's approval ratings plummet, driven by soaring living costs, a housing affordability crisis, and backlash over record immigration aimed at bolstering Canada’s post-pandemic economy. An Angus Reid poll released on December 30 revealed just 16% of voters now intend to vote Liberal—the party’s lowest level of support since Trudeau took office. Additionally, the prime minister's disapproval rating has reached a staggering 74%.

The situation worsened with the resignation of Chrystia Freeland, Trudeau’s former finance minister and once-close ally, on December 16. Her departure reportedly stemmed from disagreements over government spending, further weakening Trudeau’s grip on leadership. In the aftermath, Singh reiterated the NDP's willingness to topple the Liberal government, setting the stage for a possible early election.

As Trudeau prepares to address the nation, Canadians and political observers alike await clarity on his political future and the implications for Canada’s governance in the months ahead.