Chrystia Freeland Resigns as Canada's Finance Minister Amid Tariff Dispute with Trudeau

Summary:

Chrystia Freeland, Canada's first female Finance Minister, has resigned following a significant disagreement with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over economic policies. Freeland, who has been a key figure in Trudeau's cabinet since 2015, cited differences in handling the economic fallout from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on Canadian imports. She criticized Trudeau's decision to implement a sales tax holiday, calling it a "costly political gimmick" and emphasized the need for fiscal discipline.

Freeland's resignation came just before she was scheduled to deliver the government's fall economic statement. In her resignation letter, she stressed the importance of taking the tariff threats seriously and avoiding political maneuvers that could harm Canada's economy. Trudeau had proposed reassigning her to another cabinet role, which prompted her decision to step down.

Her departure has intensified scrutiny of Trudeau's leadership, with opposition leaders calling for his resignation and a snap election. Freeland confirmed she would run in the next federal election, expected in 2025, and remains committed to public service.