Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, has addressed growing speculation about his political future, stating that while he often contemplates leaving his “crazy job,” he intends to stay on and lead through another election.
In an interview with Radio-Canada, Trudeau acknowledged the personal sacrifices that come with his position and expressed his commitment to continuing his role despite the challenges.
The next general election in Canada is scheduled for October 2025. However, Trudeau’s popularity has been waning, with polls indicating increasing dissatisfaction among Canadians, particularly regarding issues like housing affordability and the cost of living. The Liberal party, led by Trudeau, has been trailing behind the Conservatives in opinion polls.
Despite concerns within political circles that Trudeau’s leadership might be detrimental to the Liberal party’s prospects, he affirmed his determination to remain in the fight, stating, “I could not be the man I am and abandon the fight at this point.”
“I think about quitting every day. It’s a crazy job I’m doing, making the personal sacrifices,” stated the leader, who has held office since 2015. “Of course, it’s super tough. It’s very challenging at times.”
Last year, he and his wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, announced their separation. They share three children.
Mr Trudeau ascended to power with a significant majority election win, ending nearly a decade of Conservative party governance in Canada. However, support for the Liberals has waned over subsequent elections.
His minority government currently operates under a “supply and confidence” agreement with the New Democrats, where the left-leaning party backs the Liberals in pivotal parliamentary votes.
Speaking on Friday, the 52-year-old Trudeau emphasized his commitment to public service, stating, “I entered politics not to be popular, not for personal reasons, but because I want to serve, and I know I have something to offer.”
“The choice that Canadians will make, in a year in the elections, will be so fundamental.”
In a high-stakes battle, some provincial premiers and the federal Conservatives are advocating for the cancellation of a planned increase to the federal carbon tax—a key climate initiative of his government—that is set to take effect next month.
In his discussion with Radio-Canada, Mr. Trudeau affirmed his intention to stay the course, contending that the majority of Canadians benefit from offsets provided by rebates, mitigating the impact of increases.
“It is very easy in politics these days to attack a tax, to criticize concrete measures,” he remarked.