Justin Trudeau resigns

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that he will resign as party leader and PM, but will stay on as the PM until the Liberal Party chooses a new leader.

Canada’s 23rd prime minister and leader of the Liberal Party for over a decade, Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, marking the end of a tenure that spanned nearly nine years in office. In a packed press conference in Ottawa, the 53-year-old leader reflected on his achievements, challenges, and a singular regret that he said continues to weigh on him as the country approaches its next general election this year.

“If I have one regret, particularly as we approach this election – well, probably many regrets that I will think of. But I do wish we’d been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country so that people could simply choose a second choice, or a third choice on the same ballot,” Trudeau said.

Trudeau’s resignation comes as the Liberal Party grapples with sinking poll numbers, internal discord, and a resurgent Conservative opposition led by Pierre Poilievre.

On Trudeau’s request, Governor General Mary Simon agreed to prorogue Parliament until March 24. This will give the Liberal Party time to hold a shortened leadership contest.