Trudeau says ‘yes,’ he’s staying as leader after Liberal revolt
Asked directly if he would stay on after the Oct. 28 date some caucus members had reportedly asked for a clear answer by, the prime minister responded with just one word: “Yes.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made it clear that he plans to lead the Liberals into the next election, a day after facing over two dozen MPs who had urged him to resign.
“We’re going to continue to have great conversations about what is the best way to take on Pierre Poilievre in the next election,” he told reporters. “But that will happen with me as leader going into the next election.”
When asked if he would remain in his position past the October 28 deadline that some caucus members reportedly wanted clarity on, Trudeau simply replied, “Yes.”
He was also questioned about whether he would expel anyone from caucus if dissent regarding his leadership persisted. Trudeau noted that they have had “robust conversations” on how to move forward. “We’re open about our united desire to make sure that Pierre Poilievre doesn’t get the chance to cut the programs and services that Canadians are relying on in this time of affordability crisis,” he added.
These comments followed a caucus meeting on Wednesday, where some party members pressed him to step down amid declining poll numbers and two recent byelection losses in traditional Liberal strongholds.
Sources informed Global News that between 20 and 30 MPs had signed an internal document calling for his resignation, with those same members expressing their concerns directly to Trudeau during the meeting.
After the caucus gathering, several MPs stated that the party remained united, though they did not elaborate on the discussions that took place behind closed doors. Trudeau also remarked to reporters as he left the caucus that it was “strong and united.”
