Chrystia Freeland, popular with some MPs, criticized by others

globalnews.ca:

Chrystia Freeland, now a member of the Liberal backbench, is the pick of several of her backbench peers to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader and as prime minister of Canada.But her popularity is not universal, some MPs have told Global News.In fact, some of Trudeau’s ministers resent the method and timing of her departure, a sharply worded resignation letter that dropped hours before Freeland was to table her government’s Fall Economic Statement a week ago.“Chrystia Freeland’s actions are deeply disappointing,” said Brampton, Ont., Liberal MP Kamal Khera who is also the minister of diversity, inclusion and persons with disabilities.“At a time when unity is critical, her decision to undermine the Prime Minister and this government is reckless and self-serving.”As a member of the Ontario Liberal caucus, Khera and several other ministers were present for a virtual meeting of that caucus Saturday. Some Liberal MPs who participated in that meeting said that that there was “strong consensus” or a “clear consensus” that Trudeau step down as leader.But, in a statement to Global News, Khera defended Trudeau.“The PM has led us through three elections, a pandemic, and countless challenges with a vision Canadians trust.

The majority of us remain focused on the real work ahead, including protecting Canada from the threat of another Trump administration,” Khera said.“That’s where our energy belongs—not on personal agendas.”Liberal MPs told Global News and the Toronto Star that while Khera did not voice those opinions during the Saturday caucus meeting, Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu, who represents a Thunder Bay, Ont. riding, also criticized Freeland for the manner in which she resigned.Hajdu did not respond to a request for