‘Stop the Navel-Gazing’: Ministers React to Byelection Loss, Back Trudeau

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister Marc Miller speaks in the Foyer of the House of Commons before Question Period on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on June 12, 2024. The Canadian Press/ Patrick Doyle

Federal ministers have affirmed their support for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau following the Liberals’ defeat in the Toronto–St. Paul’s byelection on June 24.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller addressed the election result during a June 26 press conference in Montreal, acknowledging it was a loss that he said should not be minimized.

“I think a lot of us need to take a step back, screw our heads on a little better, stop the navel-gazing, and get back on the horse to fight for Canadians,” he said.

Mr. Miller responded to questions from reporters about whether Mr. Trudeau should continue as prime minister in light of the Liberals’ defeat in a riding the party had held for three decades, in addition to low polling numbers across the country.

“My advice to him as a minister and as a colleague professionally is absolutely to stay on,” Mr. Miller said.

Conservative candidate Don Stewart secured a narrow victory in the riding, a historically Liberal stronghold since 1993, with 42.1 percent of the vote. Liberal candidate Leslie Church garnered 40.5 percent.

When asked by reporters for a comment regarding some fellow Liberals who are reportedly discussing a party leadership change, Mr. Miller replied, “That’s a message I'll keep internally.”

Mental Health Minister Ya'ara Saks also addressed the byelection result on June 26, describing it as “a temperature check.” She emphasized the importance of listening to Canadians’ concerns, such as on affordability issues.

“That’s what I would say to ... not just to the residents of St. Paul’s, but to Canadians: Let’s roll up our sleeves, listen, and work together,” she said during a press conference in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.

When asked by reporters about public discussions regarding Liberal leadership Ms. Saks replied that she was “not here to speculate on leadership races.” She also touted the leadership of Mr. Trudeau in his efforts to address child care affordability, environmental, and mental health issues, saying he’s “the most important leader of a generation to make transformational change in this country.”

Meanwhile, Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault warned against drawing direct links between the byelection and a general election, saying that while it is not the desired outcome for the Liberals, the party will continue working for Canadians ahead of the next federal election. He also expressed support for Mr. Trudeau, pointing to his government’s efforts regarding emissions reduction and nature conservation.

“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Prime Minister Trudeau,” Mr. Guilbeault said in French on June 26. “He has my eternal gratitude and certainly has my support.”

Following the byelection results, Mr. Trudeau said on June 25 the Liberals have a “lot of work to do,” adding that he has heard Canadians’ concerns and frustrations.

Omid Ghoreishi and Matthew Horwood contributed to this report.