Justin Trudeau confronted by steelworker: 'Won't see you around in another year'

A carefully choreographed photo-op fell to pieces when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was confronted by a disgruntled steelworker, who challenged him over high taxes and the rising cost of living.

The tense exchange, which was caught on camera, took place at a steel firm in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, on Friday. The unidentified worker refused Trudeau's offer of doughnuts and instead complained about high taxes, medical bills, and what he perceived as handouts to "lazy" individuals.

Trudeau attempted to defend his policies, stating, "The 25 per cent tariffs we just brought in is going to help you out â€æ that's going to keep your job."

However, the worker countered, "What about the 40 percent taxes I am paying and I don't have a doctor?"

In response, Trudeau pointed to a multimillion-dollar investment by the Canadian government, which he claimed would secure the worker’s employment "for many years to come."

"I’m going to invest in you and your job," Trudeau said.

But the worker remained unconvinced. "I don't believe you, not for a second," he said.

The worker described his struggles to make ends meet and support his family despite having a full-time job. When Trudeau mentioned dental care, the worker replied, "Yeah, I pay for it myself. We are like three years behind."

Trudeau responded by highlighting the recent investment that allowed half a million people to access dental care, but the worker retorted, "Yeah, probably like my neighbour who doesn't go to work because she's lazy."

Taking a jab at Trudeau’s dipping popularity, the worker predicted that the Liberal Party leader would be voted out, saying, "I think you are only here for another year, we won't see you around in another year."

Trudeau calmly replied, "That's what elections are for. I look forward to everyone exercising the right to vote."

The worker walked off after refusing to shake Trudeau’s hand. A video of the exchange has gone viral, with many Canadians praising the worker for speaking up to the Prime Minister and others commending Trudeau for maintaining his composure.

The encounter comes as Trudeau’s government faces growing public anger amid a cost-of-living crisis affecting the nation. Although Trudeau, who has led Canada since 2015, has remained optimistic, his popularity has taken a major hit due to simmering discontent over economic issues and housing shortages.

General elections in Canada are scheduled for October 20, 2025.