JUSTIN TRUDEAU RESIGNS

On the same day that President Elect President Donald J. Trump was officially certified by outgoing Kamala Harris, Justin Trudeau announced his resignation from the prominent position of Prime Minister of Canada over a vote of no confidence. How does a young person survive such a globally brutal humiliation?

BY SNN.BZ STAFF

1. 2015 – Trudeau Becomes Prime Minister

Election Victory: Justin Trudeau became Canada’s 23rd Prime Minister on October 19, 2015. His campaign was marked by the slogan “Real Change,” promising progressive reforms, including legalization of cannabis, gender equality, and action on climate change. His victory was largely due to the Liberal Party’s charm and the discontent with the Conservative Party’s Stephen Harper.
Humorous Anecdote: Trudeau, famous for his engaging and energetic persona, was often seen doing push-ups and high-fives with supporters during campaign events. In one memorable instance, he hopped into a canoe with a young boy on a campaign stop — and promptly tipped it over, much to the amusement of onlookers.

2. 2015–2019 – Prime Ministerial Stint

Highlight: He quickly became an international sensation for his progressive policies, including gender-balanced cabinet appointments and welcoming Syrian refugees. Trudeau’s appearance and charismatic persona made him a popular figure globally.
Humorous Anecdote: One of his most memorable moments came when he was filmed trying to perform a backflip on stage at a Liberal fundraiser. While he failed to execute the stunt perfectly, the moment embodied his fun-loving approach to leadership.

3. 2019 – Re-election and New Challenges

Election: In the 2019 federal elections, Trudeau’s Liberals won a second term, though they lost their majority in the House of Commons, forming a minority government. The campaign was somewhat overshadowed by the “blackface” scandal that resurfaced, involving photos of Trudeau in makeup from his younger days. He apologized, and while it tarnished his image, he managed to hold onto power.
Humorous Anecdote: At the same time, Trudeau found himself attempting to dodge awkward questions about his past but would often flash his trademark grin and attempt to charm his way through the tough moments.

4. 2020 – The Pandemic and the WE Charity Scandal

Pandemic Leadership: Like leaders across the world, Trudeau’s leadership was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. He faced criticism for Canada’s vaccine rollout and lockdown measures but was generally praised for the financial aid programs put in place to help individuals and businesses. His support for science and public health became a cornerstone of his tenure.
Scandal: The WE Charity scandal emerged, where Trudeau was criticized for awarding a government contract to the WE Charity, with family ties to the organization. The controversy led to investigations and calls for his resignation.
Humorous Anecdote: During the scandal, there were a few lighter moments where Trudeau, under intense questioning, made awkward jokes about his love for charity work and his family’s connections — but it seemed he was struggling to keep his usual charm intact.

5. 2021 – Third Term and More Controversy

Re-election: Despite controversies, Trudeau was able to secure a third term in the 2021 election, but again with a minority government. Much of his focus during this time was on the post-pandemic recovery, reconciliation with Indigenous communities, and climate change action.
Humorous Anecdote: In the midst of his re-election campaign, Trudeau’s famous love for selfies and fan photos led to a hilarious moment when a young supporter asked to take a picture with him — but accidentally took a selfie of just the back of his head. The Prime Minister, laughing, retweeted the image with the caption, “It’s the thought that counts!”

6. 2025 – Resignation

Today: On the same day that American President Donald J. Trump was certified by outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris, on January 6, 2025, Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as Prime Minister of Canada, citing personal reasons and a desire for the country to move forward with fresh leadership. His decision marked the end of his long and at times tumultuous political career. It was met with both applause for his many progressive achievements and criticism for the scandals and challenges that punctuated his time in office (far more criticism than applause).
Humorous Anecdote: In a lighthearted farewell speech, Trudeau joked that he would now have more time to perfect his yoga poses and work on those push-ups — a wink to his early campaign image. It was a final reminder that Trudeau often found ways to inject humor into even the most serious moments.

Trudeau’s tenure was marked by numerous highs, including his international fame and domestic achievements, but also some notable lows, particularly surrounding scandals. Nevertheless, he is widely regarded as a dynamic and transformational leader who reshaped Canada’s political landscape.

When Trudeau flew to the Mara Lago, Florida to visit President Elect Donald J. Trump at his Florida Estate, the joke was made that the United States could adopt Canada as its 51st State and that Trudeau could be its governor.