Front Burner

Stephen Maher, a veteran federal politics reporter and author of 'The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau', dissects the turmoil within the Conservative party. He explains the recent resignations of MPs Chris d'Entremont and Matt Jeneroux, exploring the implications of floor crossings and internal pressures. Maher discusses the precarious mood among Conservative MPs and the potential for further defections. He analyzes Pierre Poilievre's leadership precariousness while contrasting it with the growing influence of Mark Carney, suggesting a complex political landscape ahead.

Louis Blouin, U.S. correspondent for Radio-Canada, shares insights on the evolving landscape of American politics one year after Trump's election. He highlights the shockwaves felt in Canada and reports on the local impacts of Trump's policies, particularly Medicaid cuts in North Carolina. The podcast also explores why some voters remain loyal to Trump despite adverse policy effects. Blouin discusses how affordability issues continue to dominate voter concerns and reveals how the unpredictability of U.S.-Canada relations has shifted dramatically.

Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck, known for his thought-provoking documentaries, delves into George Orwell's influence on today's world. He discusses Orwell's warnings about mass surveillance and propaganda, drawing parallels to modern events like the January 6th insurrection. Peck highlights the dangers of language manipulation and the assault on literature by authoritarian forces. He argues for reclaiming Orwell's original messages, emphasizing their relevance in understanding today's political landscape and the importance of history in avoiding past mistakes.

In this insightful discussion, Joshua A. Cohen, writer of the Ettingermentum newsletter, analyzes Zohran Mamdani's stunning electoral victory as NYC's new mayor on a bold leftist platform. They dive into Mamdani's successful strategy of rallying non-white working-class voters and focusing on affordability rather than divisive culture wars. Cohen also explores the Democratic establishment's hesitation to embrace Mamdani amid concerns over donor influence and its future balance between progressives and centrists. The conversation sheds light on the evolving Democratic identity.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal government have unveiled a budget that calls for $141-billion of new spending in the next five years to prop up an economy grappling with major economic disruptions. It also proposes $51.2-billion in cuts and savings, including the slashing of tens of thousands of public service jobs.From billions of investment in infrastructure and defence, to new details about the government’s climate and immigration targets, we’ll break it all down with Aaron Wherry and David Coletto.Aaron is a senior writer with CBC’s parliamentary bureau, and David is the CEO and founder of Abacus Data.For transcripts of Front Burner, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/radio/frontburner/transcripts

Dallia Abdelmoniem, a Sudanese political analyst, shares her firsthand experiences of the devastating civil war in Sudan. She discusses the harrowing conditions in El Fasher, where civilians face a dire humanitarian crisis. Dallia highlights the atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces, as well as the complexities of foreign involvement in the conflict. She delves into the challenges of delivering aid and the geopolitical factors fueling the violence, urging for international accountability and action.

Rosemary Barton, CBC's chief political correspondent, joins to dissect the high-stakes atmosphere of Mark Carney’s first budget as Prime Minister. She outlines the pressing economic context, from stalled U.S. trade talks to the need for growth while managing deficits. Discussion revolves around potential public service job cuts, the impact of AI, and party dynamics amid Carney's minority government. Barton also analyzes the likelihood of support from the NDP and Conservatives, raising speculation about a possible election if the budget fails.

Janet French, a seasoned provincial affairs reporter for CBC Edmonton, dives into the contentious teacher negotiations in Alberta. She unpacks the use of the notwithstanding clause by the UCP government, forcing teachers back to work and stoking potential union calls for a general strike. French delves into teachers' demands for better wages and manageable workloads, while critiquing the erosion of public education through policies favoring school choice. With public sympathy swelling, she explores the implications of a sustained union response and what it might take for a general strike.

Rick Perlstein, a historian and author known for his deep dive into modern American conservatism, explores Ronald Reagan's nuanced views on tariffs and trade. He examines how Reagan believed high tariffs led to trade wars and job loss, contrasting these ideals with Trump's current aggressive trade stance. Perlstein discusses the controversy triggered by a Canadian ad quoting Reagan, critiquing how Reagan's legacy is used today and what he might think of the current GOP. The discussion reveals significant shifts in conservative thought and the complexities of Reagan’s practical politics.

Vina Nadjibulla, Vice-President of Research and Strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, discusses Prime Minister Mark Carney’s strategic trip to Asia. She outlines Canada’s need for reliable trade partnerships amid U.S. unpredictability and highlights the focus on diversifying trade with nations like Malaysia and South Korea. Vina also delves into Canada’s recalibrated approach to China, emphasizing the balance between trade and security while addressing India’s diplomatic challenges. The conversation explores the future of Canada-Asia relations.