Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his intention to resign as Liberal leader and prime minister on Monday, January 6 saying he will be stepping down as soon as his party chooses a new leader.
“Despite best efforts to work through it parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority parliament in Canadian history, that is why this morning I advised the governor general that we need a new session of parliament. She has granted this request,” said Trudeau as he spoke in a morning news conference in Ottawa.
Governor General, Mary Simon, granted his request to prorogue parliament until March 24 which effectively puts the House of Commons on hold until a new Liberal leader is chosen to run in the next federal election.
In the North Thompson Valley, reaction has been swift by local officials on Monday upon hearing of the prime minister’s resignation announcement.
Newly elected MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson and recently appointed Conservative opposition forestry critic, Ward Stamer, told Black Press, “It’s unfortunate that the prime minister now realizes it’s time to go. The public has been screaming for a change and the P.M. is more concerned about his own well being than doing what’s right for the country and call an election. With record deficits, a housing crisis and affordability crisis created by his government we can only hope for a spring election to allow the Canadian public to speak and make their voices heard loud and clear.”
The mayor of Clearwater, Merlin Blackwell, also commented, saying Trudeau led Canada through some very difficult Covid years.
"I think he will be remembered for that," Blackwell said. "It looks like we will be in an election by summer, and most likely, with a new ruling party post-election. I look forward to seeing the visionary ideas that all parties put forth during the campaign”.
President of the Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce, Kaare Long, issued a formal statement to the Clearwater Times which reads: “Today, we acknowledge the resignation of the prime minister. We extend our gratitude for his service and dedication to our nation. This moment of transition underscores the importance of strong and effective leadership to navigate the challenges ahead.
There are many political opinions, but what is most important is that we recover from our deeper losses and hold steadfast to what being Canadian truly means.
As we move forward, it is crucial that we come together as a community, supporting our hard-working leaders, and working collaboratively to ensure the continued prosperity and stability of our country. The Clearwater & District Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering a thriving small business environment and advocating for policies that benefit all citizens. We look forward to working with the incoming leadership to build a brighter future for our nation.”
During the Jan. 6 news conference, Trudeau stated he has reflected over the holidays and of his intention to resign, having told his children over dinner about his decision on Sunday.
“It has been clear to me if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election,” he told reporters.
With the prime minister’s announcement coming only weeks away from U.S. president elect, Donald Trump, being sworn back into office for a second term, threatening to impose tariffs on Canadian goods, Trudeau will remain involved in discussing Canada-U.S. relations on Monday following his announcement during a cabinet committee meeting. He will remain as prime minister and Liberal leader until his replacement is chosen.
