Trudeau to reshuffle cabinet following Freeland’s abrupt resignation

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau plans to shake up his cabinet Friday morning, aiming to restore stability following a turbulent week marked by Chyrstia Freeland’s resignation and growing calls for him to step down. 

A senior government source, who was not authorized to speak publicly, told the Globe and Mail that the shuffle would involve more than 10 individuals or about a quarter of the top ministerial team, including some Liberal backbenchers.

The cabinet changes came after Freeland abruptly stepped down as finance minister on Monday, citing policy and political differences with Trudeau. 

Freeland’s departure triggered what has become Trudeau’s most serious political crisis since taking office.

At least 15 Liberal MPs are now publicly asking Trudeau to step down.

Despite the internal challenges, new Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc offered a vote of confidence in Trudeau’s leadership. 

LeBlanc was asked on Thursday if Trudeau still had the cabinet’s support.

“Yes,” said LeBlanc.

LeBlanc spoke at a funding announcement in Dorchester, N.B., where reporters asked about the four Liberal MPs from his home province who have joined those calling for Trudeau’s resignation.

“That’s a view they’re expressing. The Prime Minister listened carefully when that view was expressed to him,” said LeBlanc.

“Colleagues did what is the appropriate thing. They, in a caucus meeting, expressed those views directly to the Prime Minister himself. He listened, he, in some cases, responded to specific things that were raised, and he said he would reflect carefully on what he’s heard. That’s how the process works.”

With the cabinet shuffle, Canadians will soon see whether these changes placate Trudeau’s critics and help steady the government’s course at a critical political moment or force Trudeau to resign.