Trudeau announces resignation plan, will stay on as interim PM as he suspends Parliament

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that he intends to resign as leader of the Liberal Party after a new leader is selected. The announcement came after months of speculation about his political future. With the approval of Governor General Mary Simon he has also prorogued – or shut down – Parliament until March 24.

At a news conference in front of the Rideau Cottage that has served as the prime minister's residence since 24 Sussex has been renovated, Trudeau described Parliament as "paralyzed" and said a new session was required. 

That's why this morning, I advised the Governor General that we need a new session of parliament," Trudeau told reporters. "She has granted this request, and the House will now be prorogued until March 24 over the holidays, I've also had a chance to reflect. I've had long talks with my family about our future throughout the course of my career, any success I have personally achieved has been because of their support, with their encouragement. Last night, over dinner, I told my kids about the decision that I'm sharing with you today, I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader through a robust nationwide competitive process. Last night I asked the President to the Liberal Party to begin that process."