Brian Dijkema and Chris Griwsold on the political realignment reshaping Canadian and American politics
May 1, 2025
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Chris Griswold, Policy Director at American Compass, and Brian Dijkema, President for Canada at Cardus, dive into the shifting political landscape as working-class support grows for conservative parties in Canada and the U.S. They discuss the decline of the bipartisan consensus and the changing party loyalties among voters. The duo also examines the impact of global market dynamics and the need for governments to address labor rights and socioeconomic challenges while engaging a more diverse electorate.
The podcast discusses the shift of working-class voters in Canada and the U.S. towards conservative parties, driven by feelings of disenfranchisement.
Concerns about government intervention in the economy highlight a preference for market efficiencies over rent-seeking behavior, particularly in Canada's political landscape.
Ongoing changes in U.S. tariff policy reflect a strategic decoupling from China, aiming to encourage domestic production while needing careful implementation.
Deep dives
Importance of Market Principles
The Progressive Contractors Association (PCA) emphasizes the need for government to adhere to the principles of markets and competition rather than relying on rent-seeking behavior that hampers economic potential. Leadership within industry associations like PCA is noteworthy for advocating a business perspective that prioritizes market efficiency over government intervention. During discussions about Canada's economic landscape, concerns were raised regarding an increasing perception of government as a partner in the economy, especially in the wake of global pressures. This perspective advocates for a framework where government roles are minimized, allowing for greater innovation and productivity in the market.
Impact of U.S. Tariff Policy
The current U.S. tariff policy presents both potential benefits and challenges for international trade, particularly with China. The aim of decoupling from the Chinese economy is seen as a long-overdue necessity, although critics argue that the abrupt implementation of tariffs should be phased to mitigate disruptions. The introduction of a global 10% tariff serves to encourage domestic production, but it has faced scrutiny for potentially creating inefficiencies in certain sectors. Ultimately, clearer communication regarding these tariff strategies is essential to foster trust and ensure that stakeholders understand the intended outcomes.
Political Realignment Dynamics
The political landscape in both Canada and the U.S. is undergoing a significant realignment, with working-class voters increasingly shifting their allegiances towards conservative parties. This shift is largely attributed to a growing disenfranchisement among these voters, who feel overlooked by traditional parties that do not address their specific needs and concerns. Notably, direct endorsements from unions have become a symbol of this political shift, as labor groups realign with conservative platforms that prioritize job security and local economic development. This new political dynamic underscores a transformative opportunity for center-right parties to cater to the aspirations of working-class citizens.
Challenges Facing Traditional Political Narratives
The traditional bipartisan consensus in the U.S. has struggled to address the needs of a changing electorate, particularly among blue-collar workers who have felt marginalized in economic discussions. Observations highlight that while conservative parties are recalibrating their policies to attract diverse voter segments, progressive parties are failing to maintain their historical ties to working-class interests. As the conservative agenda begins to incorporate more economically populist ideas, it’s crucial that these adjustments resonate with the new voters to create sustainable political coalitions. The need for responsiveness in policy-making is paramount to ensure that these emerging voter demographics feel recognized and represented.
Navigating Economic Policy Reform
A key element to the political realignment is recognizing the necessity of adapting economic policy to better serve working-class communities and address their challenges. This includes reconsidering trade agreements, labor policies, and local economic initiatives that promote job growth and community welfare. Effective policy reform should focus on balancing market freedoms with strategic interventions in critical sectors, such as infrastructure development and essential industries. Moving forward, policymakers must engage in thoughtful dialogue with constituents to genuinely understand their needs, ensuring that reforms are meaningful and result in improved economic conditions.
On this special episode of Hub Dialogues, recorded at the Progressive Contractors Association’s 25th anniversary conference and moderated by Sean Speer, Brian Dijkema, president for Canada at Cardus, and Chris Griswold, the policy director at American Compass, discuss the political realignment – including the growing support of working class members for the Republican Party in the United States and the Conservative Party in Canada – and what it means for our politics and policy. This discussion was held on April 15, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario.
This episode is made possible by the Progressive Contractors Association and listeners like you. Donate today.
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CREDITS:
Elia Gross - Producer & Editor
Sean Speer - Host
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