Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, admired abroad for his progressive policies but damaged at home by scandals, kicked off a six-week re-election campaign on Wednesday with opinion polls suggesting his hold on power will be weakened.
Trudeau, who swept to office in November 2015 promising "sunny ways" and stressing the importance of gender equality, gay rights and the environment, faces an electorate that will focus more on the economy and affordability when it votes on Oct. 21.
Trudeau was to visit the Ottawa residence of Gov. Gen. Julie Payette, the acting head of state, to formally launch the race at 10 a.m.