Pressure is mounting within the Liberal Party as Quebec MPs are increasingly voicing their calls for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down as leader. Following former Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland's resignation, the outlook for the Liberal Party under Trudeau’s leadership has stirred concerns among party members, prompting renewed discussions on his future.
According to sources within the Quebec Liberal caucus, chair Stéphane Lauzon has individually consulted with MPs over the holidays to gather their perspectives on Trudeau's leadership. The sentiment among the majority appears clear; he must go. An unidentified Quebec Liberal MP told CBC News, "There is consensus among us. Trudeau should step down." This reflection has built up to increased frustrations expressed at multiple regional caucus levels across Canada.
Alexandra Mendès, one vocal advocate within the caucus, stated her belief is aligned with the overall sentiment, saying, "The Prime Minister should step away." Despite her claims of overwhelming support, she admitted during another interview with Radio-Canada, this consensus might not be "necessarily unanimous," highlighting the nuanced perspectives present among her colleagues. Out of all Quebec MPs, only four—Mendès, Sophie Chatel, Anthony Housefather, and Joël Lightbound—have publicly indicated they support Trudeau’s departure.
Meanwhile, the Quebec Liberal caucus is scheduled to convene virtually on January 9 to deliberate their official stance. It remains unclear whether Trudeau or his office have reached out to the caucus amid rising concerns about party unity and direction. Lauzon stated, "No letter has been sent to the prime minister from the Quebec caucus. Unfortunately, what happens in the Quebec caucus stays in the caucus," reinforcing the confidential nature of their discussions.
The urgency for leadership change is echoed beyond Quebec, as other regional caucuses, including those from Ontario and Atlantic Canada, have also signaled expectations for Trudeau to resign. Members from these regions collectively represent the majority of the Liberal seats in the House of Commons, which has only heightened the anticipation surrounding Trudeau's future. The Atlantic Liberal caucus chair, Kody Blois, publically called for Trudeau’s resignation via social media, drawing attention to the shifting party sentiments.
The resignation of Freeland, known for her commitment to the cabinet and the party, has unfortunately propelled questions about the Prime Minister's ability to lead effectively moving forward. Mendès recalls the shock she felt over Freeland’s departure, which has seemingly changed the dynamics within the Liberal Party and among Canadians at large. "I was willing to give [Trudeau] another chance, but the signs are worrying now," she reflected.
Right now, Trudeau is reportedly utilizing his vacation time in British Columbia to reflect on not just his leadership but also the calls for his resignation spreading through the party. With the media buzzing and public sentiment increasingly leaning against him, the stakes have never been higher. His decisions as he returns from his holiday might determine the Liberal Party's electoral viability going forward.
MP Ken Hardie from British Columbia noted, "This isn’t us versus him. It is us, in the interests of the country, trying to do something to keep us out of the clutches of the Conservatives." His comment underscored the pressure the current political climate places on the Liberal Party, urging cohesiveness and rapid assessment of its leadership strategy.
Trudeau’s support within his party is now decidedly fragile, with various MPs signaling their willingness to explore other options amid the prevailing dissatisfaction. Hedy Fry, another seasoned MP from British Columbia, expressed caution about pushing Trudeau publicly, warning it could convey disunity. She remarked, "The Prime Minister should be able to take his time to reflect without being pressured."
While discussions continue at various caucus levels, the Liberal Party has recently been promoting Trudeau on social media to highlight his party’s policies, including child care and dental care. This proactive approach raises questions about the reality of party unity as dissatisfaction grows within its own ranks.
With the Quebec Liberal caucus and other regional members expressing serious doubts about Trudeau’s leadership, his return from vacation will be pivotal. Decisions made over the coming weeks could very well set the course of the Liberal Party's position leading up to the next federal election. The future, it seems, hinges on the Prime Minister's next move.