Justin Trudeau has ‘one regret’ as he steps down as Canadian Prime Minister

Justin Trudeau, Canada’s 23rd prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party for over a decade, declared his resignation on Monday, ending a nearly nine-year tenure. Speaking at a packed press conference in Ottawa, the 53-year-old reflected on his legacy, acknowledged ongoing challenges, and revealed a lingering regret about his time in office.

“If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election… it’s that we couldn’t reform the way we elect our governments,” Trudeau stated, referencing unfulfilled promises to overhaul Canada’s electoral system.

Trudeau’s decision comes as the Liberal Party faces mounting difficulties, including plummeting poll numbers, internal strife, and a resurgent Conservative Party led by Pierre Poilievre. Recent polling shows the Liberals trailing the Conservatives by over 20 points, reflecting widespread public frustration with soaring inflation and housing costs.

“This country deserves a real choice in the next election,” Trudeau said, acknowledging that internal battles within his party left him unable to effectively lead.

Trudeau rose to power in 2015, bringing youthful energy and a progressive platform that championed climate action, gender equality, and inclusivity. The son of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, his charisma and international profile initially won him widespread support. However, his leadership has recently been marred by criticism over economic challenges and accusations of relying on “political gimmicks,” notably by former deputy prime minister and finance minister Chrystia Freeland, who resigned last year.

Freeland’s departure, coupled with Trudeau’s declining approval ratings, underscored the party’s struggles. The Liberals now face the daunting task of choosing a new leader ahead of a critical election later this year.

Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives have gained momentum, capitalizing on growing dissatisfaction with Trudeau’s economic policies. Poilievre, a vocal critic of Trudeau, has pledged to “cap spending, axe taxes, reward work, build homes, stop crime, secure borders, and put Canada first.” His populist rhetoric has drawn both support and criticism, with Trudeau warning against the rise of divisive politics.

Trudeau’s departure triggers a leadership race within the Liberal Party, with potential contenders including former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, and Freeland herself. The party’s executive is set to meet this week to determine the process for selecting a new leader.