Dominic LeBlanc Sworn In as Finance Minister After Chrystia Freeland’s Resignation Shakes Liberal Government

Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc was sworn in as Canada’s new finance minister on Monday, stepping into the role after Chrystia Freeland’s unexpected resignation. LeBlanc, a close confidant of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has been tasked with stabilizing a government facing internal turmoil and plummeting public support.

Freeland’s departure came after Trudeau informed her on Friday that she would be moved out of the finance role. Rather than accept a cabinet shuffle, Freeland resigned, criticizing Trudeau’s economic policies as “costly political gimmicks” and urging collaboration with premiers to address Canada’s challenges. Despite stepping down, she confirmed her intention to remain a Liberal MP and run in the next federal election.

The shock resignation disrupted the fall economic statement, which revealed a projected $61.9 billion deficit for 2023-24—far higher than anticipated. LeBlanc now faces the difficult task of restoring economic confidence while navigating growing dissent within the Liberal caucus.

Several Liberal MPs, including former cabinet ministers, have publicly called for Trudeau to resign, reflecting deep fractures within the party. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh echoed those sentiments, with Singh warning that “all options are on the table” regarding his party’s support for the government.

Housing Minister Sean Fraser also announced he will not seek re-election, adding to the Liberal Party’s woes as multiple cabinet members step down. LeBlanc’s appointment signals Trudeau’s attempt to shore up stability, but the resignation of one of his most senior ministers raises critical questions about his leadership and the government’s future.