Reactions are pouring in from Canadians across the country after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement Monday morning that he is stepping down as leader of the Liberal Party.
- Read more: Justin Trudeau stepping down as Liberal leader, to stay on as PM for now
In B.C., Premier David Eby took to social media to thank Trudeau for his service to Canada, but acknowledged the two did not always agree.
“We worked on many important issues including partnering to lower the cost of childcare for families,” he wrote.
Looking forward, Eby said “we must come together to protect Canadian workers and businesses against U.S. tariff threats.”
B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad issued a statement as well, taking aim at Eby and Trudeau, while endorsing Pierre Poilievre.
"David Eby has lost his number one political ally today with Trudeau's resignation. Together they brought British Columbians drug decriminalization, safe supply, radical identity politics, emission caps that kill our jobs and a carbon tax that hurts B.C. families," he wrote.
"It’s time for change in Canada, and only Pierre Polievre (sic) and his Conservatives can restore the Canadian promise and stop the chaos in Ottawa," the statement continued.
Trudeau, whose party has been embattled with internal turmoil and waning public sentiment, said he plans to resign as both leader and prime minister once the Liberals choose a replacement to run in the next election. In the meantime, Parliament will be prorogued until March 24.
UVic political scientist, Michael Prince, said Monday it is no surprise both provincial leaders weren’t quick to embrace Trudeau.
“Why would you want to cozy up and be seen with someone who’s now exiting the stage as an embattled leader, who's own party has turned on him,” he asked rhetorically on Monday.
Colleagues, including Surrey Liberal MP for Fleetwood-Port Kells Ken Hardie, said on Monday they think Trudeau should have resigned earlier, but the party still can win with a new leader.
“The best time to plant an apple tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now, and so the best time for Mr. Trudeau to step down might have been as much as two years ago,” he said.
With files from CTV News National Correspondent Rachel Aielloa.
