Canada’s minister of foreign affairs, Melanie Joly on Saturday ruled out her candidacy for the Liberal Party of Canada‘s leadership position, citing the importance of addressing pressing international issues, particularly the economic challenges and tariff threats posed by US President-elect Donald Trump.
“Over the past week, I have spoken with dozens of friends, colleagues and close advisors; many of whom have encouraged me to run for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada. While I know I am ready to become the first woman to lead the Liberal Party of Canada, I must also recognise that the current international situation, especially the unjustified threat of tariffs and other economic pressures from the President-elect of the United States, requires a firm and urgent response. This is happening now,” Joly wrote in a letter on X.
She further wrote, “As minister of foreign affairs, I must dedicate every minute of my time and all my energy to defending the interests of Canadians. Which is exactly what I am doing and will continue to do.”
This decision comes after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement on Monday regarding his intention to step down from his roles as Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister once a successor is chosen. He additionally announced the suspension of the Canadian Parliament until March 24.
In response to Trump’s proposed 25 per cent import tax on Canadian goods, Canada is developing retaliatory measures. Sources informed CNN that Canadian officials are compiling a comprehensive list of American products for potential tariffs.
The officials are strategically selecting items that would deliver both political and economic impact, two sources told the outlet. The list encompasses dozens of American products currently exported to Canada.
Canada maintains its position as America’s primary trading partner, with US imports of Canadian goods reaching $419 billion in 2023. Canada also holds the distinction of being the largest supplier of foreign oil to the United States.
After Melanie Joly’s decision to step aside, the race to become Canada’s next Prime Minister and Justin Trudeau’s successor has begun, with several candidates vying for the position including:
- Anita Anand, a former Yale academic, entered parliament in 2019 and managed Canada’s COVID-19 response. She later implemented military reforms as defence minister.
- Chandra Arya, 78, an India-born MP representing Nepean has declared his candidacy for the Liberal Party leadership position.
- Chrystia Freeland, the former deputy prime minister who stepped down in December following disagreements over Trump’s proposed 25-percent tariffs on Canadian imports. At 56, she has extensive cabinet experience since 2015 and leads in polls, though analysts note her communication challenges.
- Mark Carney, 59, previously governed both the Bank of Canada and Bank of England before becoming Trudeau’s special economic advisor. Despite broad support, his lack of political experience and elite status may prove challenging.
- Dominic LeBlanc, 57, Trudeau’s longtime friend and current finance minister, has led US negotiations and visited Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate twice. His close association with Trudeau might affect his candidacy.
- Christy Clark, former British Columbia premier, expressed early interest in October. Her outsider status and grassroots connection could prove advantageous.
