The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

Encore Episode. How do two former Ottawa pros see the Trump, Carney, Ford story -- does it really matter? Will it make a real difference? Former Harper cabinet minister James Moore and former Trudeau advisor Gerald Butts get together for their Conversation #26. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James Moore, a former Conservative cabinet minister, and Gerald Butts, a seasoned Liberal strategist, dive deep into the complexities of Canadian federalism. They explore the origins of Confederation, the tug-of-war over pipelines involving Indigenous interests, and the role of regional frustration in today's politics. The duo discusses successful federal-provincial collaborations, such as CPP reform and the challenge of navigating separatist sentiments. With insightful commentary on the balance between provincial grievances and national unity, their conversation is both timely and engaging.

James Moore, a former Conservative cabinet minister, and Gerald Butts, a seasoned political advisor, explore the pressing challenges facing Canada Post and the necessity of tough governance choices. Moore highlights the historical delays in reform and the financial implications for the postal service. Butts advocates for bipartisan cooperation as essential for achieving lasting solutions. They dive into the complexity of cabinet decision-making, the moral dilemmas leaders face, and discuss if the public grasps the difficulties behind policy choices.

In this thought-provoking discussion, James Moore, a former Conservative cabinet minister, and Gerald Butts, a political strategist for Justin Trudeau, explore the challenges of respectful disagreement in today's polarized society. They reveal how adversarial politics serves as a release valve but risks fueling anger. Social media's outpouring of outrage is dissected, alongside the impact of figures like Charlie Kirk on young conservatives. Both guests urge a shift towards leaders who view opponents as citizens and stress the importance of broadening political bases in Canada.

The U.S. ambassador's tense exchange with Colin Robertson highlights escalating friction in Canada-U.S. relations. Chantal Hébert argues the ambassador is catering to Washington's narrative, while Bruce Anderson criticizes his provocative approach. Discussions on preclearance threats and tourism drop raise concerns about diplomatic impacts. The panel explores Canada diversifying trade and negotiating with an unpredictable U.S. amid looming federal deficits and electoral risks. It's a lively debate on diplomacy, misinformation, and economic strategies.

In this engaging discussion, Lyse Doucet, the BBC's Chief International Correspondent and a storyteller extraordinaire, shares her profound connection with Afghanistan. She reveals how the Intercontinental Hotel serves as a unique lens into Afghan life, capturing humor and resilience amid conflict. Lyse also tackles the complex legacy of international involvement, particularly regarding women's rights, and reflects on her Canadian roots and journey to the BBC. Her vivid narrative approach breathes life into her book, highlighting the rich stories of the Afghan people.

Keith Boag, a former CBC Washington correspondent, provides insightful analysis on the evolving phenomenon of Donald Trump. He discusses how 'Trump 2.0' prioritizes loyalty over institutional norms, reshaping his cabinet to eliminate checks. Boag highlights the politicization of the Justice Department and the implications of recent firings in defense. He also explores ongoing legal risks, the enduring influence of the Epstein scandal, and the unpredictable nature of U.S.-Canada relations. Finally, he speculates on Trump's possible return in 2028 and internal Republican dynamics.

Bob Rae, a seasoned politician and former Canada's Ambassador to the UN, shares insights from his extensive political career. He reflects on his early days in Parliament and the downfall of Joe Clark's government. Rae discusses modern floor crossings and their implications, while critiquing the concentration of power in party leadership. He also highlights the strains in Canada-U.S. relations and warns of global security risks, including nuclear proliferation and regional conflicts.

Listeners dive into heartwarming moments from 2025, celebrating academic achievements, medical recoveries, and adventures in the Arctic. From a joyful marriage proposal in New Zealand to the adoption of rescue cats, stories abound. Young voices abroad inspire hope, while political changes and a Grey Cup victory unite the nation. Personal milestones shine through, like learning guitar and reconnecting with old friends. The tales weave together a tapestry of gratitude, laughter, and community spirit, painting a hopeful picture for the future.

In a special segment filled with intriguing leftovers, the stark realities of global wealth inequality are uncovered. Australia’s bold move to protect children from social media raises significant questions. Research links social media use to rising ADHD symptoms in kids. The role of AI in creating fake citations highlights the need for caution in research. A fascinating look at the average obituary reveals themes of faith and legacy. Finally, a surprising tale of the Philippines curling team’s success at the Asian Winter Games wraps up the discussion.