Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation as leader of Canada, marking the end of his nearly decade-long tenure as prime minister. He will remain in office until the Liberal Party selects a new leader.
Trudeau announced that the party will delay the return of Parliament until March, to allow time for a leadership transition.
Elected in 2015, the 53-year-old Trudeau was initially celebrated for bringing Canada back to its liberal roots. His popularity has greatly diminished in recent years amid mounting political and economic challenges.
Adding to Trudeau’s difficulties is a looming trade and diplomatic standoff with the United States. President Trump has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian products unless Canada takes stronger measures to curb a flow of migrants and drugs into the U.S. Trump’s ultimatum has created additional pressure on Trudeau’s government.
Trudeau’s resignation as party leader raises questions about the future of the Liberal Party.
