Several top Liberals say they're eyeing leadership — but they're waiting to see the rules first

Senior Liberal Party members are convening on Thursday to determine the framework for selecting the next party leader and, consequently, Canada’s next prime minister—all under significant time pressure.

Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's recent decision to step down, the party’s national council will meet to finalize a fair and efficient leadership race process. Trudeau, as an executive member, will also participate in the discussions, according to sources. His decision to delay stepping down until early January has left the party with limited time to establish campaign rules, hold the leadership contest, and prepare for an anticipated spring election.

Key Leadership Race Considerations

During a national caucus meeting on Wednesday, Liberal MPs expressed eagerness to understand the upcoming rules, including whether cabinet ministers will need to step down if they choose to run, and how the party will address foreign interference concerns.

Non-Canadian residents are currently allowed to vote in Liberal leadership and riding nomination contests, raising concerns about the potential for external interference. Other logistical details, such as entry fees and ballot timelines, also need to be addressed.

Leadership Candidates

Several prominent figures have expressed interest in running, including Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, and Employment Minister Steven MacKinnon. Former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney has also shown interest, while former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, ex-B.C. premier Christy Clark, and House Leader Karina Gould are reportedly mobilizing support.

Many potential candidates are awaiting the finalized race rules before officially declaring their bids.

Calls for Integrity and Speed

Toronto-area MP Rob Oliphant suggested that the party should aim to have a new leader by the first weekend in March, emphasizing the need for urgency. Ottawa-area MP Yasir Naqvi underlined the importance of a process that is “credible, fair, and transparent,” ensuring public confidence in the selection.

Challenges Ahead

Whoever wins the leadership race will assume the role of Canada’s prime minister, but current polling suggests this tenure might be short-lived. The Conservatives currently hold a commanding 24-point lead over the Liberals, according to recent polling data.