'Not a soul' can replace Chrystia Freeland, says Liberal MP Ken McDonald

Avalon MP Ken McDonald is joining the chorus of shocked Canadians following Chrystia Freeland's scathing resignation from the federal Liberal cabinet on Monday.

McDonald says he was surprised to hear the news Monday morning, and "never had an inkling" anyone was going to resign. Sean Fraser also stepped down as housing minister. 

McDonald has been critical of federal Liberals in the past, joining a call for Justin Trudeau's resignation this fall and voting with the opposition Conservatives to cut the carbon tax on home heating fuels in 2022.

But, he sings praises for Freeland. 

"I think it takes a special person to be the primary financial person for government, and as well to be the prime minister alternate," McDonald told reporters.

When asked if he could think of a replacement for Freeland, he said, "Not a soul.… I don't think anyone can replace her."

In her resignation letter, Freeland wrote that she was "at odds" with the prime minister in recent weeks.

McDonald says he didn't witness any behaviour that would indicate a disagreement between the two. 

Next steps

The former finance minister also mentioned that "costly political gimmicks" contributed to her exit. 

With a current break on taxes on select items, and a $250 cheque on the way for some Canadians, McDonald said he was interested to see where those recent decisions lay in Freeland's fiscal update.

He says he'd like to see retired seniors receive that extra $250, but an explanation will have to wait.

Two cabinet ministers left in one day, but McDonald says Trudeau is in it for the long haul.

McDonald says he doesn't expect a successful non-confidence motion from the Conservatives, either. 

"He told us as a caucus that he's up to the challenge," he said.

As for his own position, McDonald is firm on not running for re-election.

Despite his reverence for Freeland, he says, the prospect of her running for Liberal leadership hasn't changed his mind.

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