Fri Jan 10 18:01:04 UTC 2025: ## Joly Withdraws from Liberal Leadership Race to Focus on US Tariffs

**Ottawa, Canada** – Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly announced Friday she will not be vying for the leadership of the Liberal Party, citing the urgent need to address the potential threat of US tariffs as her primary focus. This follows Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc’s earlier decision to forgo the leadership race for similar reasons.

Joly stated that the demands of her current role, particularly in navigating potential retaliatory measures against possible US tariffs, prevent her from simultaneously campaigning for the party leadership. The deadline for the leadership contest is March 9th, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down once a successor is chosen.

Speculation is mounting regarding other potential candidates. The *Globe and Mail* reports that former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and a former Bank of Canada governor are expected to announce their candidacies imminently. Other cabinet ministers considering a run include Francois-Philippe Champagne, Anita Anand, and Jonathan Wilkinson.

However, the upcoming leadership race faces an uphill battle. Current polls suggest the Liberals, after nine years in power, are significantly trailing the Conservative Party. The next federal election is anticipated in May, meaning the next Liberal leader may have a short time in office before facing the electorate.

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