Resignation of Canada's Finance Minister

OTTAWA (Reuters) – Canada's Finance Minister, Chrystia Freeland, unexpectedly resigned on Monday, stating she was no longer aligned with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Canada's future direction. Below is the full text of her resignation letter.

December 16, 2024
The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON KIA 0A2

Dear Prime Minister,

It has been the honor of my life to serve in government, working for Canada and Canadians. We have accomplished a lot together.

On Friday, you informed me that you no longer wish for me to serve as your Finance Minister and offered me another position in the Cabinet.

After reflection, I have concluded that the only honest and viable path is for me to resign from the Cabinet.

To be effective, a Minister must represent the Prime Minister and have his full confidence. Your decision indicates I no longer hold that confidence or authority.

For weeks, we have disagreed on the best path forward for Canada. Our country faces a significant challenge, as the upcoming U.S. administration will pursue aggressive economic nationalism, including potential 25% tariffs.

We must take this threat seriously, which means maintaining our fiscal reserves for a possible tariff war. We cannot afford political gimmicks that undermine the gravity of the situation.

We need a determined effort to combat 'America First' nationalism and collaborate genuinely with provincial and territorial leaders to create a unified Canadian response.

Canadians respect a government that works for them and recognizes our challenges. While our time in government eventually ends, our response to this threat could define us for generations.

This belief has driven my efforts this fall to manage our spending strategically to ensure we can address the challenges posed by the United States.

I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve and proud of our government's achievements for Canada.

I look forward to continuing my work as a Liberal Member of Parliament and am committed to running again for my Toronto seat in the next federal election.

With gratitude,

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, P.C., M.P.