Who is Justin Trudeau? The Teacher Who Became Canada’s Second-Youngest Prime Minister

Last Updated:January 06, 2025, 23:51 IST

Trudeau revealed that he had asked the president of his Liberal Party to begin the process of selecting a new leader

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. (AFP photo)

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, citing “internal battles" within his party and stating that he is no longer the best option to lead Canada into the next election.

The decision follows a period of increasing discontent among his political allies and the unexpected departure of his finance minister late last year, which signalled growing division within the government.

Trudeau revealed that he had asked the president of his Liberal Party to begin the process of selecting a new leader. This move comes just months before the next federal election, scheduled for October 2025.

Trudeau’s resignation marks the end of his tenure as Prime Minister, a position he has held since 2015. Despite his announcement, Trudeau has pledged to remain in office until the party chooses his successor, ensuring a smooth transition of power.

Who is Justin Trudeau?

Justin Trudeau, born on December 25, 1971, is the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada and the eldest son of the country’s 15th Prime Minister, Pierre Trudeau.

Following in the footsteps of his father, he was first elected to the House of Commons in 2008 to represent a Montreal constituency. However, it was his 2015 election campaign that saw him sweep to power, defeating the Conservative government led by Stephen Harper.

Trudeau’s rise to power was swift, and in 2015, at the age of 43, he became the second-youngest Prime Minister in Canadian history, after Joe Clark. His charismatic personality and youthful energy won over many Canadians, despite scepticism from some political opponents.

As Prime Minister, Trudeau led the Liberals to re-election in both 2019 and 2021, though his government faced increasing criticism in recent years. He introduced several landmark policies during his time in office, including the legalisation of cannabis, a new trade deal with the United States, and the implementation of a carbon tax aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

He also championed Indigenous rights, conducted a public inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women, and passed legislation to allow medically assisted suicide.

Despite these, Trudeau’s leadership faced growing scrutiny. His popularity has waned in recent months, with public opinion polls showing his main rival, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, leading by 20 points.

Before entering politics, Trudeau had a variety of jobs, including working as a teacher, nightclub bouncer, snowboard instructor, and bartender, Hindustan Times reported.

Trudeau’s struggles to manage internal party divisions and a prolonged political crisis have led to his decision to step down. He is married with three children, though he has separated from his wife.

(With inputs from agencies)

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