Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced a significant setback as his party’s candidate lost in a special election for a traditionally safe seat, heightening calls for him to consider resigning amidst Canada’s economic challenges and widespread desire for political change.

The defeat in Toronto—St. Paul’s, held by Liberals since 1993, marks a pivotal moment for Trudeau, akin to other global leaders facing electoral peril post-pandemic.

Despite the loss, Trudeau has a year left to potentially reverse fortunes, but previous efforts have faltered, Politico has reported.

The race, closely watched as a referendum on Trudeau’s leadership, concluded with Conservative Don Stewart’s victory over Liberal Leslie Church, despite extensive campaigning by prominent party members.

The election was prompted by former minister Carolyn Bennett’s resignation, adding to speculation about Trudeau’s political future amid internal party debates on leadership renewal.

Written by B.C. Begley