Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reshuffled his cabinet Friday, responding to the resignation of Chrystia Freeland earlier this week. In a ceremony held in Ottawa after Trudeau’s cabinet reshuffle, he welcomed new cabinet members tasked with leading key portfolios during a turbulent period.
David McGuinty, an Ontario MP, assumed the critical role of public safety minister, overseeing federal law enforcement operations nationwide. Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, representing Ontario, took over as housing minister, addressing Canada’s escalating housing crisis.
Trudeau announced these appointments as his government faced growing political instability and internal pressure for a leadership change. The cabinet shakeup follows Freeland’s resignation as finance minister and deputy prime minister due to disagreements over handling trade disputes with the United States.
Freeland’s resignation letter revealed concerns about potential US tariffs and economic nationalism under President-elect Donald Trump. “We need to take that threat extremely seriously,” she wrote.
Freeland’s departure reignited criticism of Trudeau’s leadership, with multiple Liberal MPs urging him to step down before the 2025 federal election. Trudeau’s approval ratings have plummeted amid rising inflation, a worsening housing crisis, and growing discontent within his party.
Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), criticized Trudeau for prioritizing the powerful over ordinary Canadians. Singh announced plans to introduce a no-confidence motion against the Liberal minority government when parliament reconvenes in January.
After Trudeau’s cabinet reshuffle, speculations about his future remained high, and discussions with senior party officials continued. Although he has not confirmed his decision, Trudeau is expected to make an announcement early next year.
