Liberal Collapse Continues: Bloc Québécois Claims LaSalle—Émard—Verdun Seat

The Liberal Party has suffered another devastating blow, losing the riding of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun, a seat they held for nearly a century, to the Bloc Québécois. The Bloc’s victory in this Quebec stronghold came as a surprise to many, especially since some expected the NDP to pose a serious challenge. However, the NDP finished in a distant third place, while the Liberals, reeling from the loss of former Justice Minister David Lametti’s seat, failed to hold their ground.

Lametti, who had been regarded as a capable minister, was unexpectedly removed from his cabinet position earlier this year, adding to the sting of the defeat. This marks the second by-election this year where the party has lost a seat it traditionally dominated, following an earlier setback in the Toronto St. Pauls riding.

Meanwhile, in Winnipeg, another by-election was held to replace retired MP Daniel Blaikie, whose family has represented the area for over four decades. The NDP successor won decisively, while Trudeau’s party struggled to make an impact, even with a personal visit from the Prime Minister. The party’s collapse in Manitoba is particularly troubling; at the provincial level, they are essentially a party of one, with no clear leadership or competitiveness in the political landscape.

Adding to these challenges, the NDP had already formally ended its agreement with the governing party, signaling the collapse of the arrangement that allowed Trudeau to maintain a minority government. With pressure mounting for the Prime Minister to resign, four Liberal MPs, three sitting and one former high profile member have already formed exploratory committees, preparing for a potential leadership race.

As the 2025 election approaches, the party finds itself in a precarious position. With key ridings slipping away, a fractured base, and internal dissent growing louder, their path to victory seems increasingly uncertain. Although an early election is anticipated, many experts believe Canadians won’t head to the polls before 2025, giving the party time but little room to regroup and avoid further losses.