Political Turmoil Engulfs Canadian Government as Liberal Support Crumbles
In a significant blow to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership, a majority of Liberal MPs from Ontario have reportedly aligned against him following the sudden departure of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland last week. The development marks an unprecedented crisis for the Liberal government, potentially setting the stage for a leadership challenge.
Ontario MPs unite in opposition
According to multiple Canadian media sources, including the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and the Toronto Star, 51 of Ontario’s 75 Liberal MPs recently convened in a virtual meeting, collectively signaling their desire for Trudeau’s departure. The revolt in Ontario, Canada’s most populous province and a crucial Liberal stronghold, represents a severe threat to Trudeau’s political survival.
Internal party dissent intensifies
The political upheaval has gained momentum rapidly, with 21 Liberal MPs publicly calling for Trudeau’s resignation within just one week. Toronto Star’s coverage indicates a complete absence of support among Ontario MPs for Trudeau’s leadership role in the upcoming elections.
Adding to the mounting pressure, Quebec Liberal MP Anthony Housefather told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation that the “vast majority” of fellow MPs he is speaking to believe Trudeau should resign, “whether they’ve gone public or not.”
The Freeland factor
The crisis reached a tipping point with Freeland’s resignation on December 16, reportedly triggered by disagreements over Canada’s response to Donald Trump’s tariff threats. Her departure, accompanied by warnings about the risks of Trump’s “America-first” economic nationalism, has created a leadership vacuum that many Liberal leaders hope she might fill.
Coalition support wavers
Further complicating Trudeau’s position, New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh, once a crucial political ally, has announced plans to withdraw support from the Liberal government when the House of Commons reconvenes in January. This development could potentially force a spring election, adding another layer of uncertainty to Canada’s political landscape.
The unfolding crisis represents one of the most serious challenges to Trudeau’s leadership since he assumed office, with the possibility of significant political restructuring looming on the horizon.