The Big Story Back to school for MPs - Parliament reconvenes with trade, tariffs and housing on the brain
Sep 15, 2025
Lori Williams, a political scientist at Mount Royal University, joins to discuss the reopening of Parliament and its packed agenda. They delve into the federal government’s strategies for handling the tariff war with the U.S. and unveiling a new housing plan. Challenges surrounding budget cuts, leadership questions in the Conservative Party, and the NDP’s transition are examined. Williams explains the political landscape and risks facing the government while navigating economic pressures and shifting public sentiment.
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Combative Fall Sitting Ahead
- Parliament will be combative as Pierre Poilievs acts as an assertive opposition leader critiquing government moves at every turn.
- Mark Carney faces a tough fall sitting balancing policy choices while navigating minority government challenges.
Tariff Deal Uncertainty Shifts Focus
- Negotiating a sectoral tariff deal with the U.S. is uncertain and may not be achievable given U.S. unpredictability.
- The federal focus will shift to shoring up Canada's economy and compensating affected industries instead.
Housing Fixes Take Time
- Housing initiatives will likely create some short-term jobs but won't fix affordability quickly due to deep systemic shortages.
- Voter perceptions will matter as slow housing results could erode Mark Carney's personal and government support over time.