With the news of Justin Trudeau’s resignation as Leader of the Liberal Party, there is a lot of speculation on who the frontrunners might be to replace him. Trudeau said he will stay on as Prime Minister until the party selects its next leader in a ‘robust, nationwide, competitive process’.
Dr. Cristine de Clercy of Trent University is one of Canada’s foremost experts on the study of political leadership. She says she’s watching a few people closely.
Mark Carney is another big name who is expected to contend. Carney is the former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor and according to reports he has made and fielded calls to Liberal MPs over the last few weeks.
de Clercy says political parties are always tempted with the idea of bringing on so-called ‘star candidates’ – people from outside the Ottawa bubble who might spark the imaginations of voters. That said, she notes it is really hard being a newcomer to politics while having such a high-profile gig.
de Clercy says we have examples of success and failure – noting former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney came in from the private sector and had enormous success, while former Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff didn’t.
Liberal Party President, Sachit Mehra, has said he will call a meeting this week to start the leadership race officially.
Written by: J. Mercier