BREAKING NEWS: Prime Minster Justin Trudeau announces resignation

After widespread speculation and calls for him to resign, Prime Minster Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation. Trudeau made the announcement today at Rideau Cottage.

He will stay on as party leader until a new leader is chosen.

It's the first time he's spoken publically since the resignation of Chrystia Freeland. He took the holidays to reflect on his political future.

Trudeau asked Governor General Mary Simon to prorogue parliament until March 24. The request was granted.

Trudeau was first sworn in as Prime Minister on November 4, 2015, winning a majority government. There were also elections in 2019 and 2021 in which Trudeau secured minority governments.

In this session of Parliament, the NDP signed a confidence and supply agreement to ensure the Liberals remained in power. In September 2024, the NDP pulled their support and ended the agreement.

The Liberals have faced declining poll numbers and disappointing results in by-elections in typical Liberal-safe seats. There were also several resignations including the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland on December 16.

Her resignation raised speculation as to the future of Trudeau's leadership, with renewed calls for his resignation emerging from Liberal MPs.