Trudeau Faces Challenges in Montreal’s Liberal Stronghold

Trudeau’s Struggles in Montreal’s Liberal Stronghold

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party should, under normal circumstances, have a clear path to victory in the Parliamentary seat at the southern tip of the island of Montreal. This district has been a bastion of Liberal support for over fifty years, once serving as the political home for another Liberal prime minister from a previous generation and hosting a former Liberal justice minister. Additionally, it is conveniently located just a short drive from Mr. Trudeau’s own constituency in the city.

However, as the special election approaches on Monday to fill the district’s vacant seat, recent polls indicate a surprisingly close three-way race. For many lifelong supporters of the Liberal Party, the underlying issue is painfully evident: it is Mr. Trudeau himself who has become a liability.

“I consider myself a Liberal supporter, but it feels like we’ve reached a breaking point,” expressed Michael Altimas, 79, a retired city bus driver, during a leisurely stroll along the district’s bustling pedestrian commercial street on a bright, sunny day. “For the most part, he’s been a competent prime minister.”

“But he’s had nine years in office,” Mr. Altimas continued, “and people are increasingly aware of the mistakes he has made. They’re growing tired of it and are hesitant to back him any longer.”

This election to fill the vacancy is evolving into a referendum on Mr. Trudeau’s leadership. The once-promising figure among Western leaders now finds himself grappling for political relevance. Alarmingly, even members within his own Liberal Party are beginning to voice concerns, urging him to consider stepping down. They fear that without a change in leadership, the party may face a devastating defeat in the upcoming general election, with the current leader viewed as deeply unpopular among the electorate.