Melanie Joly Exits Liberal Leadership Race

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly has announced she will not run for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada, choosing instead to focus on her responsibilities, particularly in light of the incoming Trump administration and the potential for significant tariffs on Canadian goods. This decision comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau prepares to resign after nearly a decade in office. Joly is the second cabinet member to withdraw from the race, following Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who cited similar concerns about prioritizing his cabinet role. The leadership contest is set to conclude on March 9, with a deadline for candidates to declare by January 23. Anticipation is building around other potential candidates, including Mark Carney and Chrystia Freeland, as the party implements new rules to protect against foreign interference in the election process. The changes restrict membership to Canadian citizens or residents, addressing previous concerns over eligibility.