Trudeau announces resignation as polls predict Liberal rout

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he will step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party after nine years in office, though he will remain in his role until a replacement is chosen by the party.

Facing significant pressure from Liberal lawmakers amid polls predicting a potential defeat in the upcoming election, Trudeau stated at a news conference that Parliament would be suspended until March 24.

This means Trudeau will continue as prime minister until January 20, when U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office, with Trump having previously threatened tariffs that could severely impact Canada’s economy.

“I intend to resign as party leader and as prime minister after the party selects its new leader through a competitive, nationwide process,” Trudeau said. “The country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I have to fight internal struggles, I may not be the best option for that election.”