Former journalist and senior government minister Chrystia Freeland, famously called a “nasty woman” by Donald Trump, has announced her candidacy for leadership of Canada’s Liberal Party. Freeland made the announcement via social media on Friday, promising a formal campaign launch in Toronto on Sunday.
“I’m running to fight for Canada,” Freeland declared, signaling her ambition to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister.
Freeland is following her resignation as finance minister last month after a row with Trudeau over the handling of potential US tariffs. Her exit came at a time when the pressure to quit had been mounting on Trudeau, culminating in his resignation soon after.
This is a critical time for Freeland, as Canada faces the possibility of trade conflicts with the US. Her history of tough negotiations with American officials, particularly during the 2018 North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiations, could play a significant role. Trump previously criticized her negotiation style, labeling it “toxic.
She comes from Peace River, Alberta. Freeland’s political career began in 2013 when she was recruited by Trudeau. She rose to other key ministerial positions, foreign affairs and finance.
Freeland is a Ukrainian supporter. Thus, she will likely continue to support President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. She is also known for being direct. Thus, she leads recent polls to win the leadership race.
Freeland’s main challenge will be to differentiate herself from Trudeau despite their close working relationship. On the other hand, her solid bipartisan support and reputation as a skilled negotiator strengthen her candidacy.
If successful, Freeland would become Canada’s second female prime minister and the second to transition from deputy prime minister to the nation’s leader.
