Read the full text of Justin Trudeau’s resignation speech

In a speech announcing his resignation as prime minister, Trudeau says there are 'probably many regrets' he'll have following his exit

Published Jan 06, 2025  •  Last updated 0 minutes ago  •  2 minute read

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes an announcement outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday, Jan.6, 2025. Photo by Adrian Wyld /The Canadian Press

So I thought it might be fun for us to do this again.

Article content

Article content

Every morning, I’ve woken up as prime minister, I’ve been inspired by the resilience, the generosity and the determination of Canadians. It is the driving force of every single day I have the privilege of serving in this office.

That is why, since 2015 I’ve fought for this country, for you, to strengthen and grow the middle class, why we rallied to support each other through the pandemic, to advance reconciliation, to defend free trade on this continent, to stand strong with Ukraine and our democracy and to fight climate change and get our economy ready for the future.

Article content

We are at a critical moment in the world.

As you all know, I’m a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians. I care deeply about this country, and I will always be motivated by what is in the best interest of Canadians.

And the fact is, despite best efforts to work through it, Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history.

That’s why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of Parliament. She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24.

Over the holidays, I’ve also had a chance to reflect, and have had long talks with my family about our future. Throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support and with their encouragement.

So last night, over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that I’m sharing with you today.

I intend to resign as party leader as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process. Last night, I asked the president of the Liberal Party to begin that process.

Article content

This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.

The Liberal Party of Canada is an important institution in the history of our great country and democracy. A new prime minister and leader of the Liberal party will carry its values and ideals into that next election.

I’m excited to see the process unfold in the months ahead.

We were elected for the third time in 2021 to strengthen the economy post-pandemic and advance Canada’s interests in a complicated world, and that is exactly the job that I, and we will continue to do for Canadians.

Recommended from Editorial

1. 

   BREAKING: Trudeau will step down as prime minister, prorogue Parliament

2. 

   Jamie Sarkonak: Justin Trudeau resigns a failure

Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our politics newsletter, First Reading, here.

Article content