Outgoing PM Breaks Down, Warns of Tariff Battles Ahead
In a tear-streaked swan song, Canada’s outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau choked up on camera Thursday, reflecting on nearly a decade in power and pledging unwavering support for Canadians—even as he prepares to hand over the reins. With the Liberal Party set to crown a new leader Sunday, Trudeau’s emotional address doubled as a rallying cry against the looming U.S. tariff storm under President Donald Trump.
“I’ve put Canadians first every single day in this office, holding your backs through thick and thin,” Trudeau declared. “I’m here to say we’ve got you—right up to these final days and far beyond.” The speech, one of his last as PM, came months after his January resignation announcement, triggered by sagging polls and party unrest. He’ll stay on as interim leader until his successor steps up.
Trudeau didn’t shy from the tariff tussle shadowing his exit. With Trump’s 25% duties on Canadian goods paused until April 2—easing market jitters after a rocky rollout—the PM urged unity to weather the trade turbulence. He fired back at Trump’s earlier jabs, including a quip about Canada joining the U.S. as its “51st state” with Trudeau as “Governor.”
“‘America First’ only works if Canadians and Mexicans thrive too,” he shot back, framing trade as a win-win, not a real estate grab. The tariff truce follows dueling 25% levies between the U.S. and Canada, a spat now on ice as both nations brace for what’s next. With Liberals eyeing October elections, Trudeau’s successor will face Trump head-on.