Members of Parliament Respond to Unexpected Resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Freeland

December 16, 2024 TruthUSA

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland announced her resignation on the same day she was scheduled to present the Fall Economic Statement, prompting reactions from MPs across all parties.

“Chrystia Freeland is a good friend, someone I work with very closely as president of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport,” Minister Anita Anand told reporters in Ottawa on Dec. 16. “This news has hit me really hard, and I’ll reserve further comment until I have time to process.”

Freeland stated on Dec. 16 that she was resigning from cabinet. In a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, she revealed that Trudeau had informed her last week that he no longer wanted her to serve as finance minister. Despite an offer for a different cabinet position, Freeland felt that resigning was the only “honest and viable path” forward.

The deputy prime minister cited disagreements with Trudeau over Canada’s economic strategy, particularly in maintaining fiscal reserves to prepare for potential challenges, such as a trade war with the U.S. initiated by the incoming Trump administration threatening tariffs. Freeland also criticized the Liberal government’s unspecified “costly political gimmicks,” leading to the delay in presenting the Fall Economic Statement.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre described the Liberal government as “spiralling out of control” at a critical time with potential U.S. tariffs looming, suggesting that the Fall Economic Statement should be treated as a confidence motion with possible implications for an early election.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh remarked that Freeland’s resignation reflects the Liberal government’s focus on internal conflicts rather than addressing the country’s challenges. Singh shared positive experiences working with Freeland and considered her a friend.

Various MPs expressed support and well wishes for Freeland following her resignation, highlighting her dedication and service. Former Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould urged for a change in leadership, emphasizing the need for a new direction.

Former Environment Minister Catherine McKenna recommended reading Freeland’s resignation letter, questioning the Prime Minister’s feminist stance based on actions rather than words. McKenna emphasized the importance of speaking up within a political party to ensure accountability.

National Revenue Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau acknowledged the impact of Freeland’s resignation and indicated a common experience in handling such situations. Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault offered a brief comment on the matter.

Conservative MP and House Leader Andrew Scheer criticized the government’s state and suggested a lack of confidence in Trudeau within his own ministers, as indicated by Freeland’s resignation.

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