The contest to replace Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau began Tuesday, following his resignation amid growing tensions with the U.S. over trade and domestic political challenges. The new Liberal Party leader will likely face elections soon after taking office in March.  

With the Liberal Party struggling in polls, the new leader could face the daunting task of rebuilding the party from opposition. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, backed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s ally Elon Musk, is seen as a strong contender for the top job.  

Several potential candidates for the Liberal leadership are emerging, though no official announcements have been made.  

Chrystia Freeland, former deputy prime minister, is a frontrunner. She resigned in December after clashing with Trudeau over Trump’s threats to impose steep tariffs on Canadian imports. Freeland has held multiple high-profile cabinet positions since 2015 and leads in public opinion polls.  

Mark Carney, a seasoned economist and former central bank governor in Canada and the U.K., is another key contender. He was appointed Trudeau’s special economic advisor in September.  

Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, noted for managing Canada’s complex diplomatic issues with China and India, is also in the spotlight. She has received international recognition for her work.  

Transport Minister Anita Anand, who played a pivotal role in Canada’s pandemic response, is another potential candidate. Anand, a legal scholar, later became defense minister and focused on addressing military misconduct.  

The leadership race will be crucial in determining the Liberal Party’s direction as it faces one of its toughest political climates in recent history.