N.S. Liberals commend Trudeau for announcing departure, say PM made ‘right decision’

The Nova Scotia Liberals are applauding Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision not to lead the Liberal Party into the next federal election. Trudeau announced on Monday that he will step down as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and as prime minister once a successor is chosen.

Former Liberal housing minister Sean Fraser described Monday as a “big day in Canadian politics and for the Liberal Party of Canada.” He expressed his gratitude towards Trudeau for his service and the opportunity to work with him to benefit his community. Fraser, who represents Central Nova, resigned from his cabinet position on December 16, the same day as his colleague Chrystia Freeland, who stepped down as finance minister and deputy prime minister.

Freeland’s unexpected announcement reinvigorated a movement within the caucus to push Trudeau out. Over the holidays, the Liberal Party’s Atlantic caucus sent a letter to Trudeau asking him to resign, citing concerns that progress would be lost under a Pierre Poilievre-led government.

Trudeau stated that he realized he could not be the best option in the next federal election if he had to contend with internal party divisions. Fraser agreed that Trudeau made the right choice to step away given the existing divisions within the party. He emphasized that it is time for a new chapter and referenced the proverb that the best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, with the second-best time being today.

Derek Mombourquette, interim leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party, supported Trudeau’s decision to move on, recognizing that all politicians have a limited “shelf life.” Progressive Conservative Premier Tim Houston, who has clashed with Trudeau over the federal carbon tax, extended his best wishes to the prime minister for his future endeavors.

Liberal MP Kody Blois commended Trudeau for the dignity and grace he exhibited in announcing his decision to step aside. Blois believes that this move will make a difference in the upcoming federal election, as many constituents are supportive of Liberal policies but seek a change in leadership.

Trudeau has already initiated a process to select the next leader of the Liberal Party, with parliament prorogued until March 24 to allow for this transition. The Liberals are focused on finding a new leader who will give them the best chance in the upcoming election.

Overall, Trudeau’s decision to step down has been met with appreciation and optimism by the Nova Scotia Liberals, as they look towards a new chapter in Canadian politics.