From unofficial advisors to 'secret weapons,' the role of political spouses on the campaign trail is varied
CBC
On the campaign trail, politicians are on full display, and frequently so are their families.
From door-knockers to unofficial advisors, the role of a spouse during a federal election campaign is varied. While they do not hold any official duties, they are often seen by their partner's side at events, providing moral support during the toughest moments and even campaigning on their own — sometimes doing it all with kids in tow.
They are commonly considered an asset, reminding voters of a politician's humanity.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau announced that after 18 years of marriage they have decided to separate.
"As always, we remain a close family with deep love and respect for each other and for everything we have built and will continue to build," Trudeau and Grégoire Trudeau wrote in identical messages.
The news made headlines around the world and has triggered questions about how the separation might affect the prime minister's political life, including his next federal election campaign.
Grégoire Trudeau has been particularly visible throughout all of Trudeau's federal election campaigns. She introduced him at events, mingled with voters, rallied volunteers and spoke with the media.
In an interview with CBC News during the 2019 federal election campaign, Grégoire Trudeau said she did not view the job of political spouse as one that is a mere extension of her husband's work.
"I don't ever feel like I'm playing a role or that I'm fulfilling a role as the 'wife of,' and my husband knows that I'm not," she said at the time.
Grégoire Trudeau has become a public figure in her own right, championing causes she is passionate about, like mental health and gender equality.
The roles a political spouse takes on during an election campaign are largely of their own choosing, said Laura Stephenson, a professor of political science at Western University and co-director of the Consortium on Electoral Democracy.
"We don't hire the family, we don't hire the spouses," she said.
What often happens in politics, said Stephenson, is politicians recognize that their family life, to some extent, can send messages to the voting public.
"Having your family with you is done to try and convey that you're supported, you have people around you who think you're a good person," she said.