Wayne Long, Liberal MP for Saint John-Rothesay, has urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down as party leader following a surprising byelection loss in Toronto-St. Paul’s. In an email to the Liberal caucus obtained by CBC News, Long emphasized the need for new leadership, stating, “For the future of our party and for the good of our country, we need new leadership and a new direction.”
This makes Long the first caucus member to openly call for Trudeau’s resignation after the electoral defeat. MP Ken McDonald acknowledged Long’s message, advocating for an urgent in-person meeting with Trudeau. Despite the call for change, Trudeau has reiterated his commitment to staying on as leader.
The recent byelection saw Conservative Don Stewart win in a traditionally Liberal stronghold, defeating Liberal candidate Leslie Church by 590 votes. This marked a significant shift, as a Conservative hadn’t been competitive in this riding since the 1980s. Long, known for previously breaking ranks, is not seeking re-election.
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