Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is facing intense pressure and widespread opposition, with calls for his resignation coming from both his political rivals and within his own Liberal Party. As approval ratings indicate, he may struggle to withstand this wave of dissent in the upcoming elections.
On Wednesday, internal calls for Trudeau’s resignation as the Liberal leader escalated during a meeting of Liberal MPs on Parliament Hill, where a document was reportedly presented urging the prime minister to step down, according to a News report. Dissident MPs have given Trudeau until October 28 to decide his political future.
Trudeau’s approval ratings have taken a significant hit. An Ipsos poll found that only 28% of Canadians believe he deserves re-election, with just 26% expressing support for the Liberals—a troubling position for the party with federal elections approaching.
The situation is further underscored by a drop in approval ratings from the Angus Reid Institute, where disapproval of Trudeau has surged from 39% last year to 65% in 2024, while his approval has plummeted from 51% to 30%. Trudeau is also attempting to appeal to Khalistani voters as the prospect of snap elections looms.
Since last year, several prominent Liberal Party leaders have resigned, signaling internal unrest. Reports indicate that the expiration of the supply-and-confidence agreement with the NDP has weakened Trudeau’s government, intensifying calls for him to step aside.
Adding to the pressure was a viral encounter between Trudeau and a steelworker in northern Ontario. When the prime minister extended his hand for a handshake, the worker refused and confronted him over the difficulties of making ends meet despite having a stable job. This incident further eroded confidence in Trudeau’s leadership, with his approval rating dropping to 67%.