Trudeau Faces Potential Downfall

By David Ljunggren

OTTAWA (Reuters) – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appears likely to lose power early next year after a key ally announced plans to introduce a motion of no-confidence, which could trigger elections.

New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh, who has been supporting Trudeau’s minority Liberal government, stated he would present this motion after Parliament resumes on January 27. If all opposition parties support it, Trudeau’s tenure, which has lasted over nine years, will end.

Recent polls indicate that Trudeau and the Liberals are suffering from voter fatigue and discontent over high prices and a housing crisis, making them likely targets for defeat by the right-of-center Conservatives.

NDP leaders criticize Trudeau as being overly aligned with big business. Singh affirmed, “No matter who is leading the Liberal Party, this government’s time is up.” Singh also received the backing of Bloc Quebecois leaders, indicating no scenario in which Trudeau might remain in power.

In response, the Conservatives plan to ask Governor General Mary Simon to recall Parliament for a no-confidence vote before year’s end, although experts believe this request would be denied. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Trudeau’s leadership.

Exiting his cabinet shuffle amid resignations, Trudeau has faced increasing pressure to step down, especially after the recent resignation of his finance minister, Chrystia Freeland. Major media outlets reported that traditional end-of-year press engagements of Trudeau’s office were canceled.

Confidence votes occur on budgets and other spending measures, and while opposition parties have opportunities to put forward motions, Singh’s decision to move forward could risk the NDP’s position as well.

Polling expert Darrell Bricker highlighted that Singh may see an opportunity to position the NDP as the primary alternative to the Conservatives.

In the meantime, Trudeau is considering his future during the Christmas break, but a rapid motion from Singh would complicate Liberal leadership changes that usually take time.

Around 20 Liberal legislators have publicly urged Trudeau to step down, though his cabinet remains loyal. The timing of this political turmoil coincides with significant economic threats as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump plans to impose tariffs on Canadian imports, prompting concerns from provincial leaders about the situation in Ottawa.