Justin Trudeau stopped in Winnipeg Saturday to rally supporters of his campaign to become the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.

Trudeau, the Member of Parliament for Papineau, announced his intention to run for the leadership of the national party in early October.

Provincial Liberal Leader Jon Gerrard backed the bid on Monday.

Trudeau said in Winnipeg Saturday Canada's government should prioritize education for young people and fostering a strong middle class. He said he hoped to get Manitobans on board by promoting a message of unity in politics, rather than division.

Trudeau’s father, Pierre, was elected prime minister in 1968 and stayed in office until 1984 with a short one-year break.

The next Liberal leader will be voted in at a convention in April 2013.