Trudeau absent from Liberal convention, but his message — and critics — show up

The Liberal Party’s national Convention is underway, and one familiar face is absent. 

Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is not in attendance at the 2026 Liberal National Convention in Montreal, which runs April 9-11. However, he did share an address with attendees via video on the first day of the event. 

“The bigger, the more welcoming, the more diverse we are, the stronger we are. And Canada needs a strong and dynamic Liberal Party,” Trudeau said in the clip.

Over 4,500 people are attending this week’s convention, with more than half of attendees marking their first convention for the party, and more youth delegates than any prior Liberal policy convention. 

Trudeau continued on to say that the Liberal Party has always been ambitious for Canada and for Canadians. 

“In these complicated times, that’s never been more important,” he added. “And our global leadership has rarely mattered more. So keep thinking big.”

He also shared his support for the current Prime Minister, Mark Carney.

“I am really excited to see what you can all accomplish under Mark’s leadership this weekend, and for the years to come,” he continued. “But remember, the Canada we’ve built together didn’t happen by accident and won’t continue without effort. It takes hope and hard work. But we’re Liberals, we got this!” he continued.

Trudeau resigned from his position as Liberal Party leader in January 2025, bringing an end to nearly a decade in power as prime minister. First elected in 2015, Trudeau led the party through three federal elections.

Liberal Party National Convention: Canadians react to Trudeau’s address

Reaction online has been mixed, with some praising the former prime minister while others remain critical of his legacy. 

“He’s still one of my favourites. Not perfect, but definitely made me proud to be Canadian,” one X user shared.

“So thrilled to see former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appearing at the Liberal Convention yesterday, looking so good – looks younger, happier and energetic!” another posted. “His inspiring words were well fit for the moment our country is in.”

Others were less than impressed with the video address.

“How can they applaud a guy who they basically forced to resign?” one X user questioned. 

“Sorry Justin, you don’t get this. You lost the right to say that years ago, another person shared. “The Canadian people are the ones dealing with the consequences.”

And, of course, some couldn’t resist bringing up the former PM’s new popstar partner.

“Who else was waiting for Katy Perry to appear at the end?” one person on X joked. 

“Looks like Perry invigorated him!!! We want him back harder and stronger!!!”