Chrystia Freeland Resigns from Trudeau's Cabinet as Finance Minister

Ottawa, Dec 17 (NationPress) In a stunning announcement, Chrystia Freeland, Canada's Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, confirmed her resignation from the Cabinet just hours before the anticipated statement regarding Canada's economy.

Freeland was set to deliver the 2024 Fall Economic Statement on Monday.

In a letter published on her social media account X, Freeland disclosed that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had proposed an alternative Cabinet role after deciding she would no longer continue as Finance Minister.

Addressing Trudeau in her letter, Freeland stated, "It has been the honour of my life to serve in government, working for Canada and Canadians. We have achieved much together. On Friday, you informed me that you no longer wished for me to continue as your Finance Minister and offered me another position within the Cabinet."

"After careful consideration, I have determined that the only honest and viable option is for me to step down from the Cabinet. To be effective, a Minister must represent the Prime Minister and have his complete confidence. Your decision has made it clear that I no longer possess that confidence or the authority that comes with it. Over the past several weeks, you and I have found ourselves at odds regarding the best direction for Canada," the letter elaborated.

She further emphasized that Canada is facing a "grave challenge" due to the U.S. administration's "aggressive economic nationalism."

The letter conveyed, "Our country is currently confronted with a serious challenge. The incoming administration in the United States is adopting a policy of aggressive economic nationalism, including a potential imposition of 25 percent tariffs. We must take that threat very seriously. This necessitates maintaining our fiscal reserves today to prepare for a possible tariff conflict. It also requires avoiding costly political distractions that we cannot afford and that may lead Canadians to doubt our recognition of the seriousness of the situation."

"This means countering 'America First' economic nationalism with a resolute effort to advocate for capital and investment, and the employment opportunities they create. It requires working collaboratively and humbly with the Premiers of our provinces and territories, creating a genuine Team Canada response. I believe Canadians would acknowledge and respect such an approach. They can discern when we are working for their benefit, and when we are self-focused. Ultimately, our tenure in government will conclude. However, how we confront the current threats facing our country will define us for a generation, perhaps even longer. Canada will prevail if we remain strong, intelligent, and united," the letter further stated.

She also mentioned, "This conviction has been the motivation behind my strenuous efforts this fall to manage our spending in ways that will allow us the flexibility needed to tackle the serious challenges posed by the United States."

Freeland expressed gratitude for her time in the Canadian government. "I will always take pride in our government's contributions to Canada and its citizens. I look forward to continuing my work with my colleagues as a Liberal Member of Parliament, and I am dedicated to running for my seat in Toronto in the upcoming federal election," she concluded in her letter.

In her statement, she remarked, "Our government is committed to ensuring fairness for every generation. We are constructing four million additional homes, making life more affordable for all Canadians, and enhancing the economy to generate more quality jobs, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility. I anticipate presenting the next steps in our economic strategy to ensure a good middle-class life for everyone."

As Finance Minister, Freeland has been pivotal in Canada's response to numerous economic hurdles, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

She has also played a crucial role in shaping Canada's climate policies and implementing measures to foster economic stability and growth.