Who might replace Justin Trudeau as Canada’s next Prime Minister?

Chrystia Freeland criticised Trudeau’s handling of tensions with Donald Trump over proposed US tariffs. (File Photo)

In her resignation letter, Freeland criticised Trudeau’s handling of tensions with Donald Trump over proposed US tariffs. The Globe and Mail described her as either “a last, best hope for the liberal world order or an out-of-touch idealist.”

Freeland, who has Ukrainian roots and a background in journalism, has a strong track record. As foreign minister, she renegotiated a trade deal with the US and Mexico, and as finance minister, she led Canada’s economic response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite her achievements, she has faced criticism, including being called “toxic” by Trump.

Mark Carney: Former Central Banker

Mark Carney, 59, has been seen as a potential Liberal leader for years. Trudeau himself praised him in July 2024, saying, “He would be an outstanding addition at a time when Canadians need good people to step up in politics.”

Carney, a former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, has never held elected office but has extensive experience in economic and environmental issues. (Photo/X/@MarkJCarney)

Carney, a former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, has never held elected office but has extensive experience in economic and environmental issues. As a UN climate envoy, he has championed net-zero goals, calling them “the greatest commercial opportunity of our time.”

Though he aligns with Liberal policies, such as the carbon tax, his positions have drawn criticism from conservative circles. Carney has already targeted Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, accusing him of offering “just slogans” without a real plan.

Anita Anand: Transport Minister

Anita Anand, 57, is another strong contender. A lawyer and academic with an Oxford education, she entered politics in 2019.

She quickly gained recognition for her work securing vaccines during the pandemic and later served as defence minister, where she dealt with military misconduct scandals and supported Ukraine against Russia.

Anand has been shuffled between portfolios, which some interpret as a sign of tension with Trudeau. (File Photo)

Despite her achievements, Anand has been shuffled between portfolios, which some interpret as a sign of tension with Trudeau. Her current role as transport minister keeps her in the spotlight, but her leadership ambitions remain uncertain.

François-Philippe Champagne: Minister of Innovation

François-Philippe Champagne, 54, combines business expertise with political experience. A native of Quebec, Champagne’s ties to the province could be an advantage in the leadership race.

François-Philippe Champagne, 54, combines business expertise with political experience. (Photo/X/@FP_Champagne)

Dubbed “Canada’s Energizer Bunny” for his enthusiasm, Champagne has held several key roles, including foreign affairs and trade. His business acumen and centrist appeal make him a viable candidate to bring disillusioned Liberal voters back to the fold.

Mélanie Joly: Foreign Minister

Mélanie Joly, 45, has emerged as a key figure in Trudeau’s government. Representing a Montreal-area riding, Joly has been active on the world stage, including visits to Ukraine and involvement in Canada’s response to international crises.

Mélanie Joly, 45, has emerged as a key figure in Trudeau’s government. Representing a Montreal-area riding. (Photo/X/@melaniejoly)

Joly’s strong connections in Quebec and her ability to connect with diverse audiences could make her a top contender. A close ally of Trudeau, Joly once said, “He would call me periodically to say, ‘Mélanie, you need to run’.”

Dominic LeBlanc: Minister of Finance

Dominic LeBlanc, 57, is a long-time friend of Trudeau and a trusted ally. Known for stepping into difficult roles, LeBlanc recently became finance minister after Chrystia Freeland’s resignation.

Dominic LeBlanc, 57, is a long-time friend of Trudeau and a trusted ally. (File Photo)

A veteran parliamentarian from New Brunswick, LeBlanc has deep political roots, with his father serving under Pierre Trudeau. His experience and close ties to the Liberal establishment make him a steady, if less transformative, choice.

Christy Clark: Former Premier of British Columbia

Christy Clark, 59, has expressed interest in joining the leadership race. As the former premier of British Columbia, Clark built a reputation for balancing environmental priorities with energy development.

Christy Clark, 59, has expressed interest in joining the leadership race. (Photo/X/ @christyclarkbc)

Clark, who has been preparing for a potential federal role by taking French lessons, said in October, “I want to be part of the conversation on the future direction of the Liberal Party and the country.”

The race to replace Trudeau will determine not only the Liberal Party’s future but also Canada’s political direction as the country prepares for a pivotal election.

(with inputs from BBC)