Trudeau resignation would be in Canada’s best interest: Liberal MP

Liberal MP Sean Casey believes it would be in the nation’s best interest for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to step down to prevent a Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre.

Speaking to reporters on Monday as the House of Commons reconvened, Casey noted that he has been hearing from his constituents about the desire for Trudeau to resign and expressed his agreement with that sentiment. He also mentioned that more questions about Trudeau's leadership are anticipated as his caucus prepares for a meeting on Wednesday.

“Voting is an emotional exercise. It’s not based on logic. If it were based on logic and rational thinking, we’d be 20 points up, not down. But there’s been baggage accumulated. People have tuned him out,” Casey stated.

He confirmed he is among as many as 30 Liberal MPs who have signed an internal document urging Trudeau to step aside, which is expected to be discussed in the upcoming caucus meeting.

Recently, four more cabinet ministers informed Trudeau that they will not seek re-election, contributing to an increasing cabinet exodus along with other MP resignations this year.

Casey refrained from disclosing the document's details to reporters and did not specify the number of Liberal MPs who have signed it. However, he mentioned that he has not heard any opposition from his colleagues regarding the idea.

“The ones that I have communicated with have all been remarkably supportive, so anyone who has something negative to say hasn’t said it to me yet,” Casey remarked.

Although he stated that he has not been collaborating with any potential candidates to succeed Trudeau, he believes there are several viable options available.

“In the view of my constituents, almost anyone [would be better],” Casey noted. “There have been half a dozen very qualified people rumored to be interested, and I think every one of those names is interesting.”

Several Liberal cabinet ministers, including Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu, Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier, and Prairies Economic Development Minister Dan Vandal, have expressed their continued confidence in Trudeau, with Vandal being one of those not running for re-election.

Vandal stated that he thinks the disagreement within the party is healthy.

“I think everyone has a different perspective, and that’s what a caucus is for, to have those sorts of discussions,” he said.

Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault acknowledged his support for Trudeau but recognized that the public may be growing fatigued with the Liberal government.

“After almost nine years in power, it is normal for people to discuss wanting some change, especially if they feel they’ve seen the prime minister a lot,” Guilbeault commented.

“However, I think when they start considering the alternative, which is Pierre Poilievre, they’re going to think twice about it.”