Chrystia Freeland, Finance Minister of Justin Trudeau’s cabinet, abruptly resigned citing clashes with the prime minister on how to address President-elect Donald Trump’s “America First” economic agenda imposing tariffs on Canada.
The resignation came just hours before Freeland was set to deliver a speech on border security with the U.S., marking another the incoming Trump administration.
In her resignation letter, Freeland pointedly criticized Trump’s “aggressive economic nationalism” and warned of the serious threat his proposed 25% tariffs pose to Canada’s economy. She urged for caution and prudence in fiscal decisions to prepare for a potential tariff war.
Meanwhile, conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who is seen as better equipped to handle talks with Trump, has called for stricter border security and tighter visa regulations. He has accused Trudeau’s government of being “out of control” and weakening Canada’s position in negotiating with Trump.
As Freeland’s resignation adds to the already tense situation, polls show Trudeau’s Liberal Party is facing negative public sentiment leading up to the next election. This comes at a time when the country is already dealing with a struggling economy and a surge in illegal immigration.
See my letter to the Prime Minister below // Veuillez trouver ma lettre au Premier ministre ci-dessous pic.twitter.com/NMMMcXUh7A
— Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) December 16, 2024
Poilievre has called for an end to the “chaos, division, and weakness” caused by Trudeau’s policies, especially when facing a newly elected U.S. president with a strong mandate and a keen sense for weakness.
Liberal politicians in Canada are scrambling to address the fallout from Trump’s tariff threats, while conservative leaders are calling for a stronger stance to protect their country’s interests. The country has split and quickly falling into chaos.
It seems a little premature for Canada to lose their shit so quickly.
It looks like things are already starting to fall apart for Trudeau. Folks, Trumps not even in office yet. It’s interesting given that Canada started off by threatening to cut the US off.
Look at them now…