Rota says PM’s ‘difficult’ decision was the right one

By Richard Coffin

The right decision. 

That’s how Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota describes Justin Trudeau announcing he’s resigning as Liberal Leader and Prime Minister when a new party leader is chosen. 

“The position he was in is an unenviable one and very difficult,” Rota says. “But I think he made the right decision for the country and the party.”  

He says there has been discontent within the party and the country for the past several months. 

“That’s something I think probably was the deciding factor and wasn’t an easy decision to make,” Rota says.  

As for Trudeau’s legacy, Rota says one of the biggest ones is leading the country through the pandemic. 

He also points to affordable daycare programming, relationships with Indigenous groups, international relations, and dental care.  

In terms of the next Liberal leader and any potential favourites, Rota is keeping his cards close to the vest.  

“I am not going to weigh in until I see the full roster,” he says. “I do have a couple of favourites, one in particular.  But I’m going to wait to see exactly who is interested and see what they have to offer.  Then go from there.” 

Trudeau has been Liberal leader since 2013 and Prime Minister since 2015.

While the party selects its leader, Parliament has been prorogued until March 24. 

Rota says that does not affect operations at his constituency office, noting they’re there to continue to help area residents and the riding.