The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

Gerald Butts, a political advisor and former principal secretary to Justin Trudeau, teams up with James Moore, a former cabinet minister and Conservative MP, for a deep dive into the looming threat of simultaneous referendums in Quebec and Alberta. They examine Ottawa's preparedness, the impact of past crises on federal responses, and the cultural stakes involved. Tensions rise as they discuss the risks of foreign interference and the need for a robust 'No' campaign. Their insightful conversation sheds light on what national unity truly requires.

Dr. Janice Stein, a foreign policy expert at the Munk School, shares insight into Canada's silence on U.S. attacks against Venezuelan boats. She discusses Ottawa's cautious stance due to its ties with the U.S. and the complexity of its Caribbean forces. The conversation touches on the U.S. political fallout, the legality of the strikes, and the strategic underpinning of American oil interests in Venezuela. Janice also highlights Canada's constrained choices and suggests a wait-and-see approach as U.S. politics evolve.

Join a lively discussion about the shifting landscape of U.S.-Canada trade relations amid political turmoil. Insights reveal why Canada is adopting a cautious approach while facing Trump’s changing rhetoric. The resignation of a key Quebec figure sparks debates over cultural dynamics and their national implications. Discover how the Parti Québécois leader's recent missteps may affect his standing. Finally, dive into polling insights that highlight Canadian voter priorities and the importance of engaging swing voters in today's fast-paced political climate.

The discussion dives into the heated debate over Canada's choice between F-35s and Gripen fighter jets. Listeners passionately argue for Gripen's potential to rebuild Canadian aerospace and bolster jobs while raising concerns about U.S. dependence with the F-35. Cold weather performance and sovereignty are hot topics, with many urging a hybrid fleet approach. The Random Ranter also critiques a recent MOA, focusing on electricity rather than pipelines. The episode captures a range of perspectives that underscore the complexity of national defense choices.

Explore effective stress relief techniques, including the powerful 4-7-8 breathing method. Discover five foods to cut back on after 50 for better health. Travel warnings highlight the environmental pressures of tourism in stunning locations like Antarctica and the Canary Islands. Reflect on Mexico City’s protests about gentrification and consider the implications of Kenya's rapid tourism growth. Finally, delve into a provocative discussion on Richard Nixon’s complex legacy amidst contemporary views on Watergate.

Althia Raj, a political journalist with the Toronto Star, and Rob Russo, an Economist correspondent, dive into the implications of Mark Carney's cabinet reshuffle in Canada. They discuss the strategic choice between the U.S. F-35 and Sweden's Gripen fighter jets, weighing security, costs, and job prospects. Althia raises concerns about U.S. control, while Rob highlights the F-35's performance benefits. Together, they navigate the intricate political landscape behind these decisions and the impact on national unity and defense strategies.

Dr. Janice Stein, an international relations expert and director at the Munk School, discusses Europe's shift towards military recruitment amidst fears of a Russian threat, highlighting countries like France and Germany. She questions whether Canada might follow suit, predicting potential voluntary expansions for young reserves. The conversation dives into the distinctions between voluntary enlistment and drafts, and examines Russia's recruitment challenges. Janice also touches on Japan's new defense stance regarding Taiwan and the geopolitical concerns of regional allies like South Korea and Vietnam.

Calgary recently erupted in applause for a controversial pipeline deal that has both supporters and detractors buzzing. Mark Carney's agreement could reshape Alberta's energy landscape but has sparked backlash from the BC government and Indigenous groups. Experts warn it undermines Trudeau's climate initiatives and could lead to legal challenges. Meanwhile, rising electricity demands from data centers and political fallout from recent resignations add layers of complexity to the situation. Will the Liberals regain Alberta's trust, or are they risking further electoral losses?

Listeners dive into a heated debate about a proposed pipeline from Alberta to British Columbia, with passionate opinions reflecting both support and opposition. Concerns about environmental safety, Indigenous consent, and who stands to profit are fervently voiced. Some propose refining oil locally to mitigate risks, while others criticize the economic viability of the project. The conversation also touches on the complexities of navigating regional versus national interests in resource development. Meanwhile, the Random Ranter humorously critiques long acronyms, adding a light-hearted touch to the serious discussions.

Keith Boag, a seasoned political journalist and former Washington correspondent, returns to dissect Donald Trump's second term. He shares insights on how Trump organizes chaos and intentionally uses institutions for personal gain. Boag examines the shift from experienced advisers to loyalists in Trump's cabinet and discusses the Justice Department's role as a political tool. They also touch on Trump's tumultuous relationship with Canada, the implications of his financial gains, and speculate on the chances of a 2028 presidential run.