Can you recall any leader in official opposition or government, who left his or her position, head held high, on his or her own terms, who makes you think, boy, was that one hum zinger of a champion leader? The kind who may make you say of the current crop of leaders, “well, politician x would be perfect if only they had….“, fill in the blanks with, ….the charisma a Michael Ignatieff, or the magic of a Thomas Mulcair, or star quality of an Andrew Scheer. No. They come with hope, they fail the electorate test, and then they’re sent off. These are only random opposition leaders. Name a beloved past Prime Minister or Premier of recent memory.

Pierre Poilievre’s confidence amid Justin Trudeau’s internal Liberal struggles may seem justified, but history suggests his victory, if achieved, will only mark the beginning of new challenges. Leaders in Canadian and Westminster democracies often rise quickly but fall just as fast when voter fatigue, policy missteps, or internal revolts take hold. Trudeau’s likely ouster echoes earlier leadership struggles, including those of Jason Kenney and Erin O'Toole, highlighting how hard it is to retain power. If Poilievre overestimates his popularity or fails to manage rising expectations, and I can’t fathom how he won’t, he’ll find himself on the same path to political decline.

My sympathies are beginning to come out for Justin Trudeau. This may be the most empathetic one I’ve ever drawn of the man. Not a good sign for Trudeau, and though he’ll likely survive this test of his leadership, the writing is on the wall. The clock is ticking down.