'Canadians deserve a real choice': Justin Trudeau resigning, prorogues Parliament

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as Liberal leader, and is proroguing Parliament as the Liberal Party of Canada embarks on the journey to replace him.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down as Liberal leader, and is proroguing Parliament as the Liberal Party of Canada embarks on the journey to replace him.

In an historic announcement outside his official Rideau Cottage residence, Trudeau declared his intention to stay on as prime minister until a new leader is chosen.

Citing the inability to overcome "internal battles," Trudeau said that he intends to resign as both Liberal leader, and prime minister, once his party "selects its next leader through a robust, nationwide, competitive process."

The prime minister said he asked the president of the Liberal party to begin that work, now.

"Last night over dinner, I told my kids about the decision I'm sharing with you today," he said. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I'm having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election."

Trudeau also met with Gov. Gen. Mary Simon this morning where he asked for, and was granted the prorogation of Parliament, until March 24. This brings an end to the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history.

"As you all know, I'm a fighter. Every bone in my body has always told me to fight… I care deeply about this country," Trudeau said. He went on to say that he hopes removing himself "from the equation" will tamp down the level of polarization in the current federal political conversation.