CANADALAND The Fu*kit Budget
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Nov 18, 2025 Sam Konnert, an Ottawa reporter, shares his insights from the heated budget vote in Parliament, revealing the intense political maneuvering that kept the government afloat. Rupa Banerjee, a Canada Research Chair and immigration policy expert, discusses the implications of Canada’s new immigration strategy, including significant cuts to study permits and temporary resident targets. She highlights the alarming impact on the 3 million current residents and debates whether this will fix systemic issues or escalate challenges in the labor market.
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Inside The Parliamentary Vote Room
- Sam Konnert attended Parliament in a basement booth and described the mood and actors before the budget vote.
- He reported unexpected moments like Richard Gere appearing and MPs taking selfies, which set a casual tone before the vote.
A Single Vote Changed Everything
- Elizabeth May's surprise vote for the budget changed the math and helped the budget pass.
- The minority outcome hinged on a few strategic abstentions and a last-minute crossbench yes.
Tactical Voting And Technical Problems
- Sam recounted how Conservative leaders voted remotely or delayed their votes to avoid triggering an election panic.
- He described Andrew Scheer voting electronically then later claiming technical issues when he re-entered the chamber.