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 after avoiding the press for over a week. The opportunity came following an unrelated announcement.

Reporters pressed Trudeau on the recent developments, including demands from Liberal MPs for an in-person caucus meeting and calls for his resignation.

Trudeau dismissed the idea of stepping down, noting the importance of ongoing initiatives such as a national dental care program, a school food program, housing investments, and preserving democracy.

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 beings.”

Even the state-broadcaster CBC, known for its alignment with the Liberal party, pressed Trudeau on his refusal to commit to a national in-person caucus meeting, which 9 of his MPs have called for. Trudeau responded, “I will continue to engage and to talk and to listen and to meet with all my MPs from across the country.”

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.” 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has not committed to attending the Calgary Stampede this year, which kicks off Friday night and runs until Sunday, July 14.