Merry Christmas, please resign

I don’t often write letters to politicians. One time, I wrote then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper asking to be considered for an open Senate seat. At the time I was under-employed and thought “hey, I can do this.” (I did get a nice letter back saying thank you – no job offer or appointment though.) I am writing this open letter though… I hope it helps.

Dear Justin Trudeau,

Merry Christmas. It’s been a tough 2024 for everyone. The economy is shaky; Americans voted for more of the same; Prices are still high; It feels like many here just can’t get any traction financially. I write this with respect, please resign – it’s time.

You have been Prime Minister for over nine years. You are the seventh longest serving Prime Minister in the history of the country. I know you want to serve until the October 2025 general election. Saying that long will mean surpassing Harper and becoming the sixth longest serving PM, but come on – you don’t need that accomplishment.

In nine-plus years, you have done a lot: $10/day daycare, the beginnings of a national pharmacare program, and a new national dental program. You appointed the first Indigenous Governor General, made inroads in the name of reconciliation, and negotiated a revised free trade agreement with our largest trading partner.

Sure there have been boondoggles – all governments have them: Remember Electoral Reform? How about SNC-Lavalin? Talked to Jody Wilson-Raybould lately? Like most governments, the good outweighs the bad.

It’s time to go. You’ve had a good run. The longer you drag out your departure, the more likely you will condemn the party you lead to a political wilderness that will be difficult to get back out of. The longer you drag out your departure, the more likely it is that you will ensure a government that replaces yours – that will undo all the positives made.

It’s time to check your ego, listen to everyone, and enjoy the next chapter.