U.S. Ambassador David Cohen chats about Canada's digital services tax, military spending commitments, and President Biden's mental acuity. Also, John Vaillant discusses his book on climate change. Plus, insights into Trudeau's leadership challenges and future within the Liberal Party.
Internal dissent within Liberal caucus poses leadership challenges for Trudeau.
Mounting pressure on Trudeau signals potential leadership crisis within Liberal Party.
Tensions escalate as demands for national caucus meeting to address leadership concerns are denied.
Deep dives
Challenges Faced by the Liberal Party
The Liberal Party is experiencing internal challenges following a by-election loss in Toronto. While some members suggest the need for a change in leadership, others publicly support Prime Minister Trudeau. However, dissenting voices within the party call for his resignation, highlighting a lack of consensus and unity within the Liberal caucus.
Pressure on Trudeau
Prime Minister Trudeau faces mounting pressure as calls for his resignation grow louder within his party. Despite public defense from Cabinet ministers, discontent among Liberal MPs signals a potential leadership crisis. The absence of a scheduled emergency meeting further fuels speculation about Trudeau's ability to maintain support and stability.
Political Unrest within Liberal Caucus
Tensions within the Liberal Caucus escalate as demands for a national in-person meeting to address leadership concerns are denied. The absence of a clear successor and reluctance to openly challenge Trudeau's leadership reflect a complex political landscape. The situation mirrors past internal rifts within the Liberal Party, prompting comparisons to historical leadership challenges.
Climate Change and Leadership Reflection
The podcast delves into the Fort McMurray wildfire disaster and draws parallels to climate change challenges. Author John Valiant discusses the community's unpreparedness for natural disasters and highlights the urgent need for proactive measures. The narrative emphasizes the critical role of effective leadership in addressing climate-related risks and fostering sustainable solutions.
Political Concerns and Policy Decisions
The discussion extends to recent policy decisions by the Canadian government, such as the Digital Services Tax, potentially straining Canada-US relations. US Ambassador David Cohen addresses the tax controversy and underscores ongoing negotiations. Additionally, concerns about NATO commitments, energy transitions, and building resilience against climate threats emerge, reflecting a complex political and environmental landscape.
Almost two weeks since the Liberals’ shocking loss in a Toronto byelection, the prime minister is still trying to pick up the pieces, amid calls for — at the very least — a national caucus meeting. Two veteran journalists break down how the PMO has responded and where Trudeau might go from here.
Then — U.S. Ambassador David Cohen sits down with host Catherine Cullen to talk about a few key points in the bilateral relationship, including Canada’s controversial digital services tax and its commitments to military spending. He also touches on the mental acuity of President Joe Biden, a man Cohen has known for decades.
Finally: John Vaillant’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated book, Fire Weather, contemplates the future of a hotter planet. He joins The House to discuss.
This episode features the voices of:
Susan Delacourt, Toronto Star
Christopher Nardi, National Post
U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Cohen
John Vaillant, author, Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast
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