Trudeau’s resignation has Edmonton federal politicians prepping for campaign trail

Canadians will soon see an election, but not soon enough for federal opposition leaders.

Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement on Monday that he is stepping down as soon as a new Liberal leader can be chosen, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh were quick to get in front of cameras, calling for an election, while pitching themselves to voters.

“Given that Liberal MPs and leadership contenders unanimously supported everything Trudeau has done, why dump him now? Have they had a change of heart?” asked Poilievre.

With parliament now prorogued, this delays the next opportunity for opposition leaders to bring forward a non-confidence vote.

CityNews spoke with one political scientist who expects candidates will capitalize on this time to campaign.

“Talking about housing and getting those messages out about affordability and tapping into those frustrations people are feeling,” said Brendan Boyd, an associate professor at MacEwan University.

CityNews reached out to Edmonton candidates from the three main political parties. Only the NDP’s Heather McPherson responded, sharing she won’t be wasting any time to try and regain her seat.

“I’m going to be talking to folks about what their priorities are. I’m going to be knocking on doors. I’m going to be calling folks, I’m going to be having those conversations with people in Edmonton and across Alberta,” said McPherson.

McPherson says she is ready to campaign, expecting a May election.