“As your leader, as your Prime Minister, I have done my level best each and every single day to help build a country that stays worthy of all Canadians.” – Justin Trudeau
9 March: In a powerful farewell speech, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reflected on his leadership, emphasizing that freedom, democracy, and Canada itself are not guaranteed, urging Canadians to remain vigilant in defending these values. His address came just before Mark Carney was officially announced as the new leader of the Liberal Party, marking a pivotal transition in Canadian politics.
As Trudeau prepares to step down after nearly a decade as prime minister, he highlighted the Liberal Party’s resilience and the challenges ahead, particularly with rising tensions between Canada and the U.S., where Donald Trump’s renewed trade war threatens the nation’s economy.
“This is a nation-defining moment. Democracy is not a given. Freedom is not a given. Canada is not a given. None of those happen by accident. None of them will continue without effort.”
A Decade of Leadership and Liberal Resilience
Introduced by his daughter Ella Grace Trudeau, who lightheartedly mentioned she was looking forward to seeing less of him in the news, Trudeau took a reflective but forward-looking tone, choosing not to dwell on past accomplishments but instead focus on the future of the party and country.
Recalling the Liberals’ comeback from just 35 seats 15 years ago, he reminded supporters of their strength in the face of adversity:
“Like all Canadians, it’s when you try to count us out that we Liberals show our true mettle.”
Trudeau also defended his party’s values, reaffirming commitments to human rights, climate action, and economic security while acknowledging the difficult crises Canada has faced over the past decade.
“We are a country that refuses to accept the false choice between a strong economy and a healthy environment. We are a country that embraces reconciliation and Indigenous peoples as true partners because it is the only path to a shared, prosperous future.”
Carney Steps In, Early Election Speculation Grows
With Mark Carney now leading the Liberal Party, all eyes are on the potential next steps in Canada’s political landscape. The new leader, a former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, has yet to officially become prime minister, but Trudeau has confirmed that he will step down soon, paving the way for Carney’s swearing-in.
There is growing speculation that Carney may call an early election, aiming to solidify his mandate before opposition parties make their move. The House of Commons is set to resume on March 24, and opposition parties have indicated they are prepared to challenge the government.
However, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has stated that he would delay a non-confidence vote if it allows the passage of legislation to support workers affected by U.S. tariffs, but once that is addressed, his party could withdraw support, increasing the likelihood of a spring election.
A Call to Action for Liberals
Trudeau concluded his farewell by calling on Liberals to stand firm in the face of political uncertainty and to continue the fight for Canada’s values. He reminded them that while he is stepping aside, the responsibility to defend democracy, freedom, and Canada’s future now lies with them.
“It takes courage; it takes sacrifice; it takes hope and hard work.”
He urged Canadians to remain steadfast, defiant, and united, closing his speech with a personal reflection on his leadership journey and the future of Canada.
“As your leader, as your Prime Minister, I have done my level best each and every single day to help build a country that stays worthy of all Canadians. I’ve done it with you, and although you’ll always find me alongside you cheering along, their future and your future is now in your hands.”
With Trudeau’s departure marking the end of an era, the stage is now set for Carney to lead the Liberals into a new political battle, facing off against Pierre Poilievre and a resurging Conservative Party.
