Justin Trudeau, the ultra-progressive Canadian Prime Minister, is facing the most serious threat to his premiership after nine years in power, and it may all be because of Donald Trump.
On Monday last week, Chrystia Freeland- one of Trudeau’s most respected and trusted ministers in the Liberal government- resigned in an explosive letter.
The former Deputy PM said she was increasingly ‘at odds’ with Trudeau’s approach to issues facing Canada, namely Donald Trump and his impending tariffs.
The President-elect wants to slap 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian goods, a move that has sent shockwaves through the Canada’s economy.
Freeland, dubbed ‘minister for everything’ for her mammoth work ethic and capability, believes Canada should be pushing back against this “‘America First’ economic nationalism.”
She said: “Our country today faces a grave challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is pursuing a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a threat of 25 per cent tariffs.
“We need to take that threat extremely seriously.
“For the past number of weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada.
“I know Canadians would recognise and respect such an approach. They know when we are working for them, and they equally know when we are focused on ourselves.
“Inevitably, our time in government will come to an end. But how we deal with the threat our country currently faces will define us for a generation, and perhaps longer.”
Justin Trudeau REUTERSCommentators have said this is as close as possible to a vote of no confidence in Trudeau’s leadership.
Freeland also attacked Trudeau’s for his ‘political gimmicks’, warning Canadians may doubt whether the government understands the “gravity of the moment.”
She advocated for: “A determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring. That means working in good faith and humility with the Premiers of the provinces and territories of our great and diverse country and building a true Team Canada response.”
LATEST FROM MEMBERSHIP:
It comes after the resignation of other senior cabinet ministers like Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott.
Together, the three women have opened the door for other members of Trudeau’s Liberal Party of Canada to leave.
Looking at most recent polling, members might decide to jump ship before it sinks. One poll last month found over 50 per cent of Canadians think Trudeau should quit.
The first opportunity for Canadians to make their sentiment felt at the ballot box is a by-election near Vancouver on Monday.
The electoral district of Cloverdale–Langley City in British Columbia is up for grabs after Liberal John Aldag resigned earlier this year.
Tories are hoping to capitalise on voters’ fatigue with the liberals and record a blow against the incumbent party.
If Trudeau’s Liberals lose the election, it will be the third political stronghold lost this year.
Trump has observed events with glee. Responding on Truth Social, he wrote: “‘The Great State of Canada is stunned as the Finance Minister resigns, or was fired, from her position by Governor Justin Trudeau.
“Her behavior was totally toxic, and not at all conducive to making deals which are good for the very unhappy citizens of Canada. She will not be missed!!!”
+ There are no comments
Add yours