Aaron Wherry, a CBC senior writer and author of "Promise and Peril: Justin Trudeau in Power," and Stephen Maher, author of "The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau," dive deep into Trudeau's political legacy. They discuss the highs and lows of his nearly decade-long governance, including his efforts on climate change and Indigenous reconciliation. The conversation addresses pivotal scandals and controversies that shaped public perception, as well as the challenges of leadership during times of crisis, reflecting on how these elements will define Trudeau's future legacy.
Trudeau's legacy features significant policy achievements like the Canada Child Benefit, yet his government struggles with ongoing inequality and Indigenous rights issues.
Amid triumphs and scandals, Trudeau's leadership during the pandemic marked a complicated legacy compounded by public discontent and polarizing health measures.
Deep dives
Accomplishments of Justin Trudeau's Leadership
Justin Trudeau's time as Prime Minister is marked by significant policy achievements, particularly in reducing child poverty through the Canada Child Benefit, which successfully lifted over 300,000 children out of poverty. Indigenous reconciliation also emerged as a key focus, with government apologies and increased federal funding aimed at addressing historic grievances. On climate action, Trudeau made strides with the pan-Canadian framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, indicating a commitment to environmental issues. Despite these efforts, critics note a decline in focus on inequality and ongoing challenges in fully realizing promises made, especially regarding Indigenous rights.
Pandemic Response and Public Perception
Trudeau's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic is seen as a mixed legacy, with his government successfully implementing measures to support Canadians and businesses financially. Despite historic initiatives like the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which provided essential income support, the divisive pandemic environment led to lasting negative sentiment around his handling of public health protests. While Canada fared better than some countries during the pandemic, the discontent from opposed public health measures affected his image and contributed to a polarized public mood. This duality complicates how historians might ultimately assess his crisis management capabilities.
Challenges and Scandals Affecting Legacy
Trudeau's tenure has been marred by a series of scandals that have chipped away at his credibility, including the SNC-Lavalin affair which resulted in the loss of key advisors and diminished trust in his administration. Other controversies, such as the blackface incidents and perceived insensitivity during important events, have compounded criticisms of his leadership style, often characterized as out of touch. While he has maintained electoral success, these missteps have contributed to a growing dissatisfaction among Canadians, especially as economic pressures have intensified. The emergence of these issues against a backdrop of shifting global dynamics highlights a significant disconnect between Trudeau's optimistic brand and the current realities faced by many Canadians.
Nearly a decade ago Justin Trudeau rode a wave of hope and optimism — his so-called "sunny ways" — to the prime minister's office, leading a once-flailing Liberal party out of the wilderness.
A lot has changed since that time. Not only for Trudeau and his party's fortunes, but for the world — and how many people feel about the kind of hopeful vision that once helped propel people like Trudeau into power.
Today we're going to grapple with Trudeau's legacy, and how he may be remembered: the accomplishments, the failures, the scandals — and whether, as the world transformed around him, Trudeau was able to adapt with it.
Our guests are Aaron Wherry, CBC senior writer and the author of Promise and Peril: Justin Trudeau in Power, and Stephen Maher, author of The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau.