The Liberal government lost support from the federal New Democrats. This puts Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s minority government at risk of falling because of confidence votes. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said the Liberals have disappointed people by not fighting against corporate greed. Singh believes the NDP is the only party that can prevent the Conservative Party from winning the next election. He notified the prime minister that he terminated the supply-and-confidence agreement.
The NDP will now vote on government bills case by case. Singh had been planning to end the agreement for months due to differences in values with the Liberals on corporate greed. The decision was influenced by the NDP’s commitment to the people and not corporate interests. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Singh’s move as a “media stunt.” Bills still pending in the House include the Online Harms Act and legislation related to rail safety, airport standards, and military justice.
Trudeau did not confirm an imminent election, focusing instead on helping Canadians. He expressed hope for continued collaboration with the NDP on legislation. The NDP had formed the agreement in 2022 to keep the Liberals in power until 2025 in exchange for supporting key NDP priorities. The NDP has achieved victories on issues like pharmacare and dental care, but has criticized the government for not addressing corporate profits and the cost of living crisis. They also disagreed with the government’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Singh faced pressure to end the agreement, particularly from the Conservatives who are leading in polls. A survey showed the Conservatives leading by double digits while NDP support remained stagnant. Canadians have expressed a desire for change in leadership. A majority believe Canada needs change, with young Canadians gravitating towards the Conservatives. The NDP has been associated with the unpopular Liberals, prompting calls for Singh to end the agreement.
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