An anonymous Liberal MP told state broadcaster CBC that if Justin Trudeau doesn’t resign, a number of Liberal MPs are unlikely to run again in the next election.

“The prime minister’s leadership is damaged beyond repair at this point and the population just doesn’t have time for him anymore,” the MP stated. 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has refused to step down amid mounting calls for his resignation, claiming that democracy is at stake. 

Despite pressure from within his party and the aftermath of a recent by-election loss in a Liberal stronghold, Trudeau remains steadfast in his position.

Trudeau, who has been in power for nine years, finally addressed questions from reporters on Wednesday, after avoiding the press for over a week.

When asked why he believes he should remain in office despite historical trends of prime ministers being ousted after nine or ten years, Trudeau responded, “There is a challenge faced by democracies all around the world right now, whether we look at what’s going on in France, whether we look at the election in the United States, whether we look at any democracy around the world where we are seeing increasing challenges to people’s well-being.”

Uncommitted to in-caucus meeting

Another reporter pressed Trudeau on his refusal to commit to a national in-person caucus meeting, which nine of his MPs have called for following the Toronto-St. Paul’s by-election loss. Trudeau responded, “I will continue to engage and to talk and to listen and to meet with all my MPs from across the country.”

In other words, the Prime Minister refused to commit to one. 

Trudeau concluded by saying Canadians need him. “People are anxious in Canada and around the world, and the government needs to be stepping up to deliver to people.” 

The next federal election isn’t likely to take place until October 2025, unless the Trudeau Government decides to call one earlier.