Front Burner

Daniel Desrochers, Politico’s international trade reporter, breaks down the complexities of the U.S.-China trade war. He discusses the recent high-stakes face-off in Geneva and the staggering tariffs imposed by both nations. Desrochers explains how these levies are choking off business and impacting industries, especially farmers and small retailers in the U.S. He also sheds light on the intricate web of trade negotiations and how countries like Canada and the UK are responding to shifting trade dynamics.

Salimah Shivji, CBC's South Asia Bureau Chief based in Mumbai, provides critical insights into the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. She discusses the recent surge in violence sparked by a militant attack, highlighting contrasting narratives from both nations. The conversation delves into India's Operation Sindhuar and the serious repercussions of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. Shivji emphasizes the historical complexity of the conflict and the urgent need for dialogue to avert a larger crisis in the region.

In this insightful discussion, Charles Collins, managing editor of The Crux, shares his extensive knowledge on the papal conclave and the selection of the next pope. He highlights the unprecedented diversity of the College of Cardinals, emphasizing the differing priorities between Western and global South cardinals. The tension between continuing Pope Francis' liberal legacy and pursuing more traditional values is palpable. Collins also examines key candidates, including Pietro Perolin, and explores the complexities of papal politics amid significant social challenges.

Aaron Wherry, a senior writer with the CBC’s Parliamentary Bureau, joins to discuss the tense meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump. Their encounter occurs against a backdrop of escalating trade tensions and potential tariffs threatening Canada's film industry. Wherry highlights the unexpected tone of the meeting and its implications for Canada-U.S. relations. The conversation delves into the complexities of negotiating amidst political pressures and the future of trade agreements between the two countries.

Agnès Callamard, the Secretary General of Amnesty International, brings decades of human rights advocacy to the forefront. She discusses the urgent human rights issues facing Canada and the globe, while emphasizing Canada's potential as a model for resistance against rising authoritarianism. The conversation dives into the escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza and Tigray, highlighting the dire need for international intervention. Callamard also critiques U.S. influence on global justice, stressing the importance of resilience and collective action in the fight for human rights.

In a thought-provoking conversation, Alex Shephard, Senior Editor at The New Republic, delves into the tumultuous start of Donald Trump’s second administration. He discusses the surge of executive orders, highlighting their impact on governance and federal agencies. The conversation also touches on immigration reform, revealing how recent policies may erode due process rights for vulnerable communities. Additionally, Shephard analyzes the economic turmoil, shifting global dynamics, and the complicated relationship between Trump and the media, predicting lasting ramifications for America.

Hannah Sampson, a travel reporter with The Washington Post, discusses the evolving landscape of U.S. travel for Canadians. As fears of increased scrutiny at the border grow—ranging from aggressive questioning to potential detainment—travelers are reconsidering their plans. She shares essential tips on preparing for border encounters, the risks tied to political expression on social media, and highlights the significant drop in Canadian tourism to the U.S., revealing the ongoing challenges posed by current political climates.

<p>The Conservative Party of Canada is once again the Official Opposition.</p><p><br></p><p>Now, the Tories are grappling with the disappointing results of Monday’s election. They lost to the Liberals after leading in the polls mere months ago and their party leader, Pierre Poilievre, failed to win in his own riding.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>But it wasn’t a total loss. The Conservatives won 41 per cent of the popular vote, and picked up more seats than any other party, flipping both red and orange seats to blue.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Top Conservative strategist, Kory Teneycke, joins the show to talk about the path forward – what the results mean for Poilievre and what kinds of challenges he will face, if he stays on as leader, in uniting Conservatives and expanding their base.</p>

Paul Wells, a seasoned political journalist and Substack publisher, delves into the complexities of Canada's new Liberal minority government. He discusses the challenges posed by a strong Conservative opposition and external pressures like Trump's trade war. The conversation highlights the intricate dynamics of coalition-building and the need for collaboration amidst divergent viewpoints. Wells also examines rising separatist sentiments in the West and the leadership hurdles facing figures like Mark Carney as they navigate this politically charged landscape.

Aaron Wherry, a senior writer at CBC's Parliamentary Bureau, teams up with David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, to unpack the surprising election results led by Mark Carney and the Liberals' comeback from polling lows. They explore the stark decline of the NDP and Singh's emotional farewell. The duo dives into the deep-seated political divides in Canada, speculating on future governance and coalition dynamics. Their insights reveal the evolving landscape and shifting voter sentiments that could reshape politics in the coming months.