Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s political future is on shaky ground as his approval rating continues to plummet, with many Canadians expressing a desire for new leadership. Once a symbol of progressive change and optimism, Trudeau is now grappling with widespread public frustration over rising costs of living, unaffordable housing, and a struggling healthcare system. His popularity has dropped from 63% when he was first elected in 2015 to just 28% in June 2024, according to recent polls.
A viral video clip from August, showing a steelworker in northern Ontario rejecting a handshake and confronting Trudeau over economic struggles, has become a snapshot of the growing dissatisfaction with his leadership. Despite his government’s efforts to introduce programs like national dental care and tariffs to protect Canadian industries, many Canadians feel these measures are not enough to address the core issues they face.
Trudeau’s Liberal Party has already lost key electoral ground, including a federal seat in Toronto that it had held for 30 years, which was claimed by the opposition Conservative Party. Another by-election in Montreal, set for Monday, presents another significant test for Trudeau’s leadership. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is planning to table a motion of no-confidence, which could potentially trigger a federal election and hasten the end of Trudeau’s tenure.
Political analysts are drawing parallels between Trudeau’s current situation and other major political upsets, such as the recent collapse of the UK Conservative Party. Many believe that Trudeau’s government may be in its final chapter, as voters increasingly look for alternatives. Former allies within his party have also begun to pressure Trudeau to step down, with the Liberal campaign manager resigning after voicing doubts about their ability to win the next election.
Trudeau has continued to tour the country, outlining his government’s plans to address the housing crisis and cap immigration, but these efforts have so far failed to revive his or his party’s fortunes. Meanwhile, the gap between the Liberals and the leading Conservatives has widened, with public opinion indicating that the next federal election could bring an end to the Trudeau era in Canadian politics.
