The House Is Trudeau’s reformed Senate working? Here’s what senators say
Jul 26, 2025
Paula Simons, an Alberta Senator known for her community activism, and Leo Housakos, a Quebec Senator representing Conservative interests, delve into the profound changes in the Senate over the last decade. They discuss Trudeau's reforms aimed at diminishing partisanship and increasing senator independence. Simons defends the impact of these changes, while Housakos argues the Senate is losing its influence. The conversation raises critical questions about representation, regional disparities, and the Senate's evolving role in Canadian legislation.
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Trudeau's Non-Partisan Senate Vision
- Justin Trudeau's major achievement was transforming the Senate into a non-partisan body.
- Senators now vote independently without party orders or speaking notes.
Independent Senators Challenge Government
- Without party discipline, government representatives face more challenges passing legislation.
- Senators' independence forces the government to respond to their concerns, making the process more dynamic.
Critique of the Current Senate
- The post-reform Senate is more costly, fractured, and produces less compared to the past.
- Senators are less connected to democratic processes and lack party-based influence.