Readers weigh in on the PM's refusal to step down, the recent elections in New Brunswick and B.C., our 'unwatchable' CBC, and more

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Re: ‘Total unity’: Trudeau pours more cold water on caucus detractors, as MPs call for vote on his leadership — Ryan Tumilty, Oct. 28; and How to get political leaders to walk the plank — Father Raymond J. de Souza, Oct. 27

Justin Trudeau’s vow to remain in power, despite polls forecasting a severe defeat, reflects a troubling disconnect from his duty as a servant of the people. Our democracy now feels like a sham — a hoax Trudeau imposes on all Canadians. Once known for his “sunny ways,” his leadership has become a political tragedy, clinging to power despite clear public rejection. His refusal to step aside has turned a dignified exit into a cautionary tale of hubris, as his cabinet’s concerns fall on deaf ears. Trudeau, once the face of progressive politics, now appears more focused on preserving power than public service — a vanity project for the history books.

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The irony? The leader who once championed democratic renewal now embodies what ails it. The solution is clear: those who believe in democracy must clean house. Voting for someone with such undemocratic leanings is a moral compromise too great to bear. Regardless of policy disagreements with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, voting Trudeau out has become imperative.

Tony D’Andrea, Toronto

Canadians and the Liberal party have for nine years borne the consequences of choosing style over substance. It should have been clear that Justin Trudeau had neither the background nor the gravitas to lead this country through difficult times. Instead we chose to go for the stylish young man bearing the historic Trudeau name.

The government failures in managing the economy, immigration, national security, natural resources and foreign policy are well documented in the press. The irony is that even this very limited PM could have done better had he not committed the grievous error for which he criticized his predecessor, Stephen Harper: by concentrating too much power in the Prime Minister’s Office, he kneecapped the democratic process and isolated himself from advice that would have kept him from making so many bad choices. Let us hope we make a better choice — and soon.

S. David Rosner, London, Ont.

Members of the Liberal caucus serve democracy in two capacities: as members of the Liberal caucus and as members of Parliament. As members of a caucus that has not formally adopted the powers available under the Reform Act, it may seem that they are powerless to eject their leader. As members of Parliament, however, they have the power to vote in favour of motions of non-confidence raised by opposition parties. This is a much more effective cudgel than simply abstaining from such votes, but it invites expulsion from the Liberal caucus and the inability to run as Liberals in future elections.

So, what would happen if 30 Liberal backbenchers advised their leader and deputy leader that unless caucus is granted the privilege of a secret vote on Trudeau’s continued party leadership, they would support the Conservatives’ next non-confidence motion?........

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