During a retreat in Halifax, Liberal cabinet ministers discussed the strategies being used in the U.S. presidential race, which is full of unexpected twists.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the importance of focusing on issues that Canadians care about, such as affordable child care and a national school food program, drawing lessons from the ongoing race.
With the next election just 14 months away, the Liberals are exploring ways to improve their political standing as the Conservative party, led by Pierre Poilievre, has surged ahead in the polls and claimed a long-held Liberal stronghold in a recent byelection in Toronto.
Despite the setback, Trudeau has confirmed that he will continue as the leader of the party, with minimal dissent within Liberal ranks.
As the Democrats in the U.S. make changes to their candidate lineup, some cabinet ministers were prompted to consider a similar approach.
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The U.S. election has captured widespread attention due to its dramatic developments, including the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the replacement of President Joe Biden with Vice President Kamala Harris on the ticket.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland expressed full confidence in Trudeau, stating that he should not be replaced despite the changes in the U.S. political landscape.
Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized the need to avoid mirroring U.S. political rhetoric and voiced his support for Trudeau amid discussions about potential leadership changes.
Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault, along with Miller and Housing Minister Sean Fraser, highlighted the importance of toning down rhetoric and criticized the unusual criticism directed at Fraser by Poilievre.
While the Liberal Party aligns more closely with the Democrats in the U.S., Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the importance of maintaining communication with all sides, including the Biden administration, the Harris team, and Republicans.
Joly refrained from commenting further on the U.S. presidential race and the candidate changes, underscoring Canada’s commitment to fostering positive relations with any future U.S. administration.
Trudeau can rely on Joly’s unwavering support as the political landscape continues to evolve.
