Ottawa, Canada

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's political career appeared to have entered a turbulent storm after his Liberal party suffered a major setback in a by-election held in Toronto district, which is considered the safest Liberal seat in the country. 

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The shocking defeat has raised questions over Trudeau's 'political longevity'. 

“This was obviously not the result we wanted, but I want to be clear that I hear people’s concerns and frustrations,” said Trudeau, while speaking about his party’s results in Toronto-St. Paul’s riding.

“These are not easy times. And it is clear, that I and my entire Liberal team, have much more hard work to do to deliver tangible, real progress that Canadians can see and feel. My focus is on your success and that’s where it’s going to stay," he added. 

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According to Elections Canada, opposition Conservative candidate Don Stewart won by almost 600 votes in Toronto-St. Paul’s district, 42.1 more than the Liberal candidate’s 40.5% with all 192 polling stations announcing the results of Monday’s voting. 

Trudeau's political career in decline?

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In an interview given to national television last week, Trudeau said, “Canadians are not in a decision mode right now” and dismissed the bad numbers. 

“What you tell a pollster, if they ever manage to reach you, is very different from the choice Canadians end up making in an election campaign,” he added. 

Trudeau has only a year till the next election to prepare and change people's perception towards him. 

After the defeat, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland defended Trudeau and said that he could continue as the party leader even after the loss. 

“The prime minister is committed to leading us into the next election and he has our support,” Freeland said. Trudeau was also backed by one of his closest allies. 

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“The prime minister is committed to leading us into the next election and he has our support,” said Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland.

“The result in St. Paul’s is certainly disappointing. We knew it was going to be a hard fight. We know that these are hard times for Canadians. We know that we have to work hard to earn back their trust," he added. 

Meanwhile, Opposition Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said the prime minister should call for a snap election after what he called a “shocking upset.”

“Here is the verdict: Trudeau can’t go on like this,” said Poilievre on X.

(With inputs from agencies)