Despite facing growing discontent within his party, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remains defiant, rejecting calls from a group of Liberal MPs to step down. However, the discontented MPs are now pushing for a secret ballot to decide Trudeau’s leadership future, aiming to resolve the internal revolt quietly but decisively.
The push comes after some Liberal MPs demanded Trudeau’s resignation by today, indicating that consequences would follow if he refused. In response, MPs like Yvan Baker have proposed a simple, straightforward question for the ballot: “Should Justin Trudeau lead us into the next election?”
Secret Ballot: A Move Towards Resolution
Yvan Baker argues that a secret ballot vote would allow MPs to express their views without fear of repercussions. “The prime minister and his team claim they have vast caucus support. A secret ballot would confirm that,” Baker told reporters.
Baker’s call has found backing among other MPs, including Sameer Zuberi and Wayne Long. Long emphasized that holding an internal vote could put an end to the speculation and uncertainty plaguing the party. “We think a secret ballot would absolutely, once and for all, solve it, put it to bed,” he stated, urging for a clear resolution to avoid an electoral disaster.
Internal Tensions and Electoral Risks
Long warned that Trudeau’s refusal to heed internal calls for change could hand over a prolonged victory to the Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre. “If we don’t make a solid change here, we’re going to allow Poilievre to govern for multiple terms. That would be disastrous for our country,” he cautioned.
Lack of Mechanism Under Reform Act
Unlike the Conservative Party, the Liberal caucus has not adopted the provisions of the 2015 Reform Act, which allows for a caucus-triggered leadership review. The act requires 20% of the caucus to sign a petition to initiate a review vote. However, without those provisions, it’s unclear if these disaffected Liberal MPs can formally stage a vote. Instead, they may look towards party mechanisms such as the “leadership endorsement” vote built into the party’s constitution.
Trudeau’s Response: Staying the Course
Despite the pressure, Trudeau remained silent on the matter Monday, having previously reaffirmed his intent to lead the Liberals into the next election. In a recent interview, Trudeau expressed excitement for the challenge, drawing comparisons to his unexpected victory in 2015. “To prejudge the outcome of an election already is something I don’t think people would be too wise in doing,” he said.
Yet, the numbers paint a grim picture for Trudeau. Polls show the Liberals trailing the Conservatives by as much as 20 percentage points, with disapproval ratings for the government at an all-time high. A recent Abacus Data poll showed Trudeau’s personal approval plummeting, with 60% of Canadians holding a negative view.
What’s Next for the Liberal Party?
With Trudeau refusing to step down and no formal mechanism in place for a leadership review, it’s unclear how the disaffected MPs plan to push forward. However, their call for a secret ballot has ignited a new chapter in the ongoing battle over Trudeau’s leadership, with the future of the party and the country hanging in the balance.
For now, all eyes remain on the Liberal caucus as it navigates an internal revolt ahead of an impending election.