Ex-Trudeau Adviser Suggests PM’s Leadership Less Secure Following Freeland’s Resignation

Trudeau’s Leadership in Question as Former Adviser and Political Allies Weigh In

A former chief adviser and close confidant of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has cast doubt on his future as leader of the Liberal Party. Gerald Butts, a longtime ally of Trudeau, wrote in a Substack newsletter on Friday that the prime minister is unlikely to lead the Liberals into the next federal election, particularly after Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s unexpected resignation from the cabinet last week.

According to Butts, Freeland’s departure delivered a significant blow to Trudeau’s already precarious position within the party. He described the resignation as a “staggering setback” that further undermines Trudeau’s leadership and the Liberals’ stability.

This development coincides with a looming challenge from the Conservatives, who plan to introduce a non-confidence motion when Parliament resumes on January 7. If successful, this could trigger an election as early as late January.

Liberal Party in Turmoil

Trudeau is reportedly using the holiday break to reflect on his political future. Meanwhile, calls for his resignation from within the party are growing louder, with current and former MPs urging him to step down to rejuvenate the Liberals’ standing with voters.

Butts argued that Trudeau’s leadership was already in question before Freeland’s resignation but is now even less viable. He noted that the Liberals have returned to the low popularity levels they experienced before Trudeau took over as leader in 2013.

“The only way forward is a real leadership race,” Butts wrote, cautioning against appointing Freeland or another candidate without a formal contest. He emphasized the importance of showcasing potential leaders in a competitive environment to determine the best choice for the party.

Options for Trudeau and the Liberals

Should Trudeau decide to step down, the Liberals face a tight timeline for organizing a leadership race. One possibility would be proroguing Parliament to allow for an extended leadership campaign, though this would still leave limited time compared to past races.

Some party veterans, including Eddie Goldenberg, former chief of staff to Jean Chrétien, have suggested bypassing a race and directly appointing Freeland as leader. However, this idea has met resistance from others, such as former environment minister Catherine McKenna, who supports a short but competitive leadership contest.

Conservatives Push for Early Election

Public opinion polls show Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre significantly ahead of Trudeau, with projections indicating a potential Conservative majority. The Conservatives have been calling for an election focused on Trudeau’s policies, particularly the contentious carbon pricing regime.

Conservative MP John Williamson announced plans to initiate a non-confidence motion on January 7, which could lead to a House vote by the end of the month. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who previously supported the Liberal government, has indicated his party is prepared to back a motion to oust Trudeau, signaling a shift in parliamentary dynamics.

Singh framed the decision as an opportunity for voters to choose between the Conservatives’ cost-cutting measures and the NDP’s platform, which includes affordable housing and healthcare reforms.

With growing internal and external pressure, Trudeau’s political future remains uncertain, as does the timing and nature of the next election.