Freeland’s resignation pushes deficit news to one side on a very strange day in Canadian politics
Monday’s media lockup for the Fall Economic Statement (FES) will be remembered as a bizarre and historic event in Canadian political history. The day began with the doors opening at 9 a.m., only for Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland to resign just seven minutes later, sparking a frenzy of rumors and speculation among attendees.
Despite the scheduled release of the FES at 10 a.m., the document remained hidden under a black tablecloth for hours, with periodic updates over the PA system offering little clarity. Journalists, experts, bureaucrats, and political staff waited anxiously for any information on the unfolding situation.
Lockups are a traditional part of government policy rollouts, allowing stakeholders to review documents and ask questions before the information is made public. However, this lockup was different as attendees found themselves in a state of uncertainty and confusion, with many glued to their laptops watching news feeds and speculating on the day’s events.
As the day dragged on, Freeland’s resignation statement posted on social media added to the chaos. In her statement, she highlighted the challenges Canada faces, particularly regarding potential tariffs under the incoming U.S. administration. Her resignation and the criticisms leveled at government policies overshadowed the release of the FES itself.
Eventually, the lockup began at 1:45 p.m., giving journalists a limited time to analyze the economic statement. Despite the revealing numbers, the political turmoil of the day remained the focus of discussions. The unexpected turn of events, including a $61.9-billion deficit, captured more attention than the economic figures.
The day’s events broke the conventional narrative of Canadian politics, defying expectations for a mundane outcome. As observers contemplate the implications of Freeland’s resignation and the government’s response to looming challenges, the 2024 FES lockup will be remembered as a unique and eventful chapter in Canadian political history.
