Former Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Charlie Angus found himself unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight after his plans for a quiet retirement took an unexpected turn. Originally intending to retire and focus on writing a book, Angus instead found himself embroiled in a new mission: to combat what he saw as a rising threat to democracy, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s re-election.
As his tenure in Parliament drew to a close after nearly 21 years representing the northern Ontario riding of Timmins-James Bay, Angus shifted his focus to speaking out against what he perceived as a dangerous trend towards authoritarianism. His impassioned speeches, which he initially intended for the historical record, struck a chord with Canadians who shared his concerns about the erosion of democratic values.
Angus’s message gained traction when MeidasTouch News, a prominent U.S.-based news outlet critical of Trump, began sharing his speeches online. This unexpected exposure led to a groundswell of support, with Angus being approached by people on the street and even receiving recognition from a bus driver in Ottawa.
In response to the growing threat, Angus launched “The Resistance,” a Substack publication that aims to raise awareness about the risks posed by Trump’s administration and rally Canadians to stand up against these challenges. He embarked on a nationwide Resistance tour, traversing Canada to engage with communities and emphasize the importance of resisting threats to democracy.
His efforts culminated in the creation of MeidasCanada, a platform that produces YouTube videos discussing current events with a critical eye towards preserving democratic values. Despite his newfound popularity and influence, Angus remains steadfast in his decision not to seek the NDP leadership or return to Parliament, preferring to continue his advocacy work in a different capacity.
Reflecting on the current political landscape, Angus remains resolute in his belief that ordinary Canadians have the power to effect change and shape a better future for the country. As he continues to engage with communities and spread his message, Angus remains optimistic about the potential for Canadians to come together and build a more resilient and democratic society.