Liberal party prepares for leadership race to replace Trudeau as candidates emerge

The federal Liberals are holding their first leadership race in over ten years to replace Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation on January 6. The new leader will be revealed after a national vote on March 9. Candidates must declare by January 23. Chandra Arya and Frank Baylis have officially entered the race. Several others, including Christy Clark and Chrystia Freeland, are considering bids. Mark Carney is expected to announce his decision soon, while François-Philippe Champagne and Jonathan Wilkinson are still deliberating. Mélanie Joly has withdrawn from the race, citing her role as foreign affairs minister amid trade threats from the U.S. Dominic LeBlanc also ruled out a bid, emphasizing the challenges posed by the incoming Trump administration.