Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's political future hangs in the balance after the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), which has supported his government for years, announced it will trigger a no-confidence vote when Parliament reconvenes on January 27. The NDP's withdrawal of support places Trudeau's minority government in jeopardy, potentially paving the way for an early election that could favor the opposition Conservative Party. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who has called for Trudeau's resignation, issued a statement Friday: "No matter who is leading the Liberal Party, this government's time is up. We will put forward a clear motion of non-confidence in the next sitting of the House of Commons." Facing rising discontent over his leadership, Trudeau reshuffled his Cabinet on Friday. However, he made no comments on his future and did not take questions after meeting with his new ministers. Trudeau acknowledged looming challenges, particularly in light of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's threat to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian products. "In exactly one month, the new president will be inaugurated, and we are preparing Canada to face that," he said. "We have a lot of work to do." The reshuffle follows the abrupt resignation of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who criticized Trudeau's economic strategy amid Trump's tariff threats. The departure of the housing minister earlier this week has further fueled speculation about Trudeau's ability to lead. "The prime minister has simply asked for some time to reflect on his own future," said Public Safety Minister David McGuinty. Immigration Minister Marc Miller defended Trudeau's leadership, stating, "We can't be in a position where the government has no ability to fight back." Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has called for an immediate election, accusing Trudeau's government of mismanagement. "We cannot have a chaotic clown show running our government into the ground," Poilievre said. The NDP's decision to withdraw support leaves Trudeau with limited options. He could delay Parliament's return, resign to allow for a leadership race within the Liberal Party, or face a no-confidence vote that would likely lead to an election. Liberal MP Rob Oliphant added to the pressure, advocating for a "robust, open leadership contest." Trudeau, who has led Canada for nearly a decade, faces declining popularity over issues such as rising inflation and the high cost of living. Concerns about his leadership have intensified as Canada braces for potential economic fallout from U.S. tariffs. Daniel Béland, a political science professor at McGill University, noted that while Friday's Cabinet reshuffle was necessary, for many Canadians, it might appear as "rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic." The political crisis coincides with Trudeau's strained relationship with Trump, who has labeled him "the governor of the 51st state" and criticized Canada over migration and trade issues. — Agencies
