How the U.S. election affects Canada – and some marriages
Nov 2, 2024
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Gerald Butts, former principal secretary to Justin Trudeau, shares insights on how the U.S. election could reshape Canadian-American relations, especially with potential outcomes of a Trump or Harris presidency. Jason Kenney, former immigration minister, warns of serious implications for Canadian borders if Trump returns, particularly related to immigration policies. Personal stories reveal how political divides affect marriages, emphasizing the emotional toll of differing views amid a polarized climate. The podcast dives into the complex interplay of diplomacy, economy, and social issues stemming from U.S. politics.
The personal dynamics between couples voting for opposing U.S. candidates demonstrate how political differences can strain relationships and family interactions.
Insights from former Trudeau aide Gerald Butts highlight the serious implications a re-elected Trump presidency could have on Canadian geopolitical interests and immigration.
Experts agree that addressing Canada's housing crisis requires structural reforms and collaborative efforts rather than merely cutting taxes or funding for housing programs.
Deep dives
Political Divisions and Personal Impacts
The podcast highlights the personal struggles faced by couples with differing political views during the U.S. election. Melissa and Conrad Muley, for example, navigate their relationship with opposing votes for Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, respectively. Their conversations often lead to tension, with both partners occasionally opting to leave the room rather than confront their differences directly. This dynamic illustrates how political divisions can create stress not only in friendships but also in family and marital relationships.
Navigating U.S.-Canada Relations
The discussion delves into the potential consequences of the U.S. election on Canada, focusing on insights from former Trudeau advisor Jerry Butts. He emphasizes the profound implications a Trump reelection could have, citing an unstable geopolitical landscape compared to previous administrations. Butts also recalls challenging interactions with Trump during his presidency, illustrating the complexity of negotiating on behalf of Canadian interests when the U.S. adopts an aggressive stance. This highlights the necessity for Canada to strategically prepare for either potential outcome of the election.
Concerns Surrounding Immigration Policies
The podcast addresses Jason Kenney's warnings about potential border issues if Trump is reelected, highlighting the increase in asylum seekers anticipating deportation under a Trump presidency. Kenney recalls how previous deportation promises during Trump's first term led to a surge in people crossing into Canada. He mentions the strain this could place on Canada’s already overwhelmed asylum system, stressing the importance of being proactive in anticipating such increases in immigration pressures. This situation underscores the broader implications of U.S. immigration policy changes on Canadian law and resources.
Housing Affordability Debates
A significant portion of the podcast explores housing affordability in Canada, featuring discussions around Pierre Polyev's proposal to cut GST on new homes while reducing funding for housing programs. The conversation questions the effectiveness of these proposals, given that simply cutting taxes may not address the underlying affordability crisis faced by middle-income households. Experts point out that even with tax cuts, house prices remain out of reach for most, suggesting that structural reforms and sustained investment are necessary for meaningful change. This highlights the complexity of solving housing affordability versus the political allure of quick fixes.
The Importance of Collaborative Housing Solutions
Experts stress that successful housing strategies require collaboration between governmental levels, emphasizing that simply removing funding can have detrimental effects on municipalities. The podcast discusses how programs like the Housing Accelerator Fund have successfully facilitated zoning changes and increased housing starts, and the need for a continued focus on infrastructure and supportive housing policies. The conversation challenges the notion of penalizing cities instead of fostering cooperative efforts to resolve the housing crisis effectively. This points to a growing recognition that coordinated action is crucial for sustainable improvements in housing availability and accessibility.
It’s an election abroad — with serious impacts for Canada. Millions of Americans will be casting their ballots on Tuesday, sending either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris to the White House. Is one candidate better for Canada than the other? The House talks to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s former top aide to get his insights on what a Trump or Harris presidency will mean for our country. Then, a couple from Pennsylvania who are voting for Trump and Harris share how they get along despite their political differences.
Plus, a former immigration minister discusses why he thinks Trump’s promise of mass deportation of migrants should be taken ‘very, very seriously’ and how such a move could affect the Canadian border.
And finally, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has pledged to cut the GST on new homes sold for under $1 million dollars — a promise that he says he’ll keep by cutting other key housing programs. Two housing experts join The House and weigh in on whether this is the right way to tackle Canada’s ongoing housing crisis.
This episode features the voices of:
Gerald Butts, former principal secretary to Justin Trudeau
Melissa Muhly, a Harris voter
Conrad Muhly, a Trump voter
Jason Kenney, former Conservative immigration minister
Carolyn Whitzman, professor at the University of Toronto’s School of Cities
Andy Yan, director of The City Program at Simon Fraser University
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