Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland has stepped down, citing a clash with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over how to handle President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian imports.
Freeland, who also served as Finance Minister, announced her resignation in a letter to Trudeau, stating they were “at odds about the best path forward for Canada.” She pointed to the “grave challenge” posed by Trump’s “aggressive economic nationalism.”
The disagreement reportedly centered on Trudeau’s plan to issue $175 checks to Canadians, which Freeland opposed, calling it a “costly political gimmick” that would weaken Canada’s financial position in the face of potential tariffs. She emphasized the importance of keeping Canada’s “fiscal powder dry” to counter Trump’s trade threats effectively.
Freeland, known for her globalist views and ties to the World Economic Forum, warned that Canada must push back against the “America First” policies and respond with unity. Trudeau’s decision to remove her as his top economic adviser precipitated her departure.
Trump’s tariff threats come amid concerns about illegal migration through Canada’s border. Freeland characterized the potential tariffs as a “threat” that must be taken “extremely seriously.”
Despite resigning from her cabinet role, Freeland will remain a Liberal member of parliament and confirmed her intention to seek reelection in Canada’s upcoming vote, expected no later than October 2025.
