Prime Minister Justin Trudeau affirmed his commitment to leading the Liberal Party through challenging times as he gathered with his caucus for a cabinet retreat in London, Ontario. In recent days, Liberal MPs have expressed discontent about the party’s current fortunes and its leader. During a housing announcement in London on September 13, reporters questioned Trudeau multiple times about the possibility of stepping down and how he planned to address the internal discontent.
Trudeau responded by stating that there is still important work to be done and that he remains enthusiastic and determined in his role. He emphasized that he would spend considerable time listening to MPs in an effort to alleviate frustration within the party. Trudeau acknowledged having frank conversations with MPs over the summer and emphasized that challenges can be resolved through collaboration. Despite the challenges, he expressed his eagerness to continue the positive work they have been doing together for the country.
The Liberal caucus retreat follows the recent convention of the federal Conservative Party in Quebec City. Led by Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative Party has been steadily gaining support in the polls, reaching majority territory. Poilievre has been prioritizing affordability issues, particularly housing, since his bid for party leadership. Housing affordability has become a top concern for many Canadians, with high prices and interest rates, as well as record-breaking rental prices.
Some Liberal MPs have conveyed that the government has not effectively communicated its accomplishments, potentially contributing to the drop in support. Trudeau’s housing announcement in London was related to the city being the first to receive funding under the Accelerator Fund, a policy introduced by the Liberals in Budget 2022. The program aims to incentivize cities to accelerate the construction of new homes by streamlining processes and modifying building permit regulations. Trudeau and Housing Minister Sean Fraser defended the program, stating that it is still in its early stages and that it requires time for municipalities to submit their proposals.
The Liberal caucus retreat will continue until September 14, after which MPs will reconvene in Ottawa for the fall session of the House of Commons starting on September 18.