Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attempted to secure additional time for his government by seeking support from opposition leaders, as reported by Radio-Canada. After announcing his resignation, Trudeau reached out to NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet to extend his government's tenure in Parliament.
Trudeau personally contacted the leaders of the New Democratic Party and the Bloc Québécois to request their backing for the budget appropriations, a crucial vote of confidence scheduled for the end of March. Despite Trudeau's efforts, both opposition parties stood firm on their decision to bring down the government at the earliest opportunity, refusing to support the embattled prime minister.
With the failure to secure an extension, the Liberal Party announced an accelerated leadership race, with the new leader set to be revealed on March 9. The resignation of former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and subsequent departure of Trudeau created a time-sensitive situation for the Liberals, with a looming budgetary deadline threatening the government's stability.
Every year, Parliament must approve the government's budget appropriations, with the upcoming deadline set for March 26. Failure to garner support from at least one opposition party could result in the fall of the minority Liberal government. The new Liberal leader will have the opportunity to outline priorities and vision during the throne speech on March 24, potentially leading to an imminent election campaign.
Trudeau's attempt to prolong his government faced opposition resistance, prompting an accelerated leadership race within the Liberal Party. The impending budgetary deadline poses a critical challenge for the minority government, with the next prime minister facing the task of navigating through potential election scenarios in the coming weeks.