The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

As the stories keep getting leaked about what really happened at the Trump Trudeau dinner last Friday night in Florida, a new one has emerged.  Apparently Trump joked (was it a joke?) that Canada could always join the United States as the 51st state if it felt it was being so unfairly handled on trade issues.  Really?  Not that old line again.  That and a lot more on an "end bit" collection of stories for this Tuesday.

Things are moving quickly in both the Middle East and Ukraine -- so quickly that we may be near the end on both fronts.  And while that is happening, suddenly. Syria is back in the headlines.  For her regular Monday appearance, Dr Janice Stein of the Munk School at the University of Toronto has her analysis on all this for us with her usual in depth take on the situation.

The discussion kicks off with a witty take on Winnipeg's winter while unpacking Trump’s tariff threats. It dives into Canada’s border politics and the complexities of U.S.-Canada relations under the Trump administration. Financial relief initiatives like $250 checks and GST holidays spur mixed public reactions. The critique shifts to a controversial tax initiative and its uneven effects, fueling skepticism among younger citizens. Finally, the podcast delves into the parliamentary standoff, highlighting strategies for political navigation amidst growing affordability issues.

How did you feel about Trudeau's GST free holiday and 250 dollar giveaway? Plus the Ranter on Trump's plan for tariffs.

An encore of today's topic revolves around the relationship between politicians and reporters.

Adam Lajeunesse, a historian and author with expertise in Arctic and marine security, dives into the challenges and strategies surrounding Canada's Arctic defense. He discusses the crucial role of submarines, both conventional and nuclear, in monitoring the region, emphasizing the urgency of modernizing naval capabilities. The conversation also touches on historical advances from the Cold War and the collaborative efforts with the U.S. to improve underwater surveillance, all while highlighting the geopolitical dynamics influencing Canada’s military strategies.

One key message heard by delegates at The Halifax Security Conference was that its time for Canada to step up on defence spending.

A GST holiday, 250 dollar cheques, what's next as the Liberals try to win back Canadians in the months before an election.

Everything from climate action, to potshots at Justin Trudeau and Pierre Poilievre, to bike lanes and pet care. 

Time in the cabinets of Pierre Trudeau, John Turner and Jean Chretien allowed Axworthy to see power close up.