Front Burner

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.

Ioanna Roumeliotis, an investigative journalist and co-host at CBC's The Fifth Estate, delves into Canada's connection to Israeli settlements in the West Bank. She reveals how Canadian charities are funding these settlements, despite their illegality under international law. Ioanna discusses the violent repercussions faced by Palestinians, particularly through the example of Nasser, a local whose family suffers from settler attacks. The conversation also touches on tax implications and the complex legal landscape surrounding these donations, raising critical questions about accountability.

Dimitry Anastakis, a University of Toronto professor and an expert on Canada's automotive industry, sheds light on the future of Canada's auto sector amid U.S. tariff threats. He discusses the industry's deep-rooted economic importance and the risks posed by American production shifts. The conversation explores the historical integration of Canadian and U.S. auto industries, the implications of the Auto Pact, and potential strategies for Canada to protect its auto sector in a changing landscape.

Blake Murphy, a sports journalist and host of Sportsnet's Jays Talk Plus, dives into the Toronto Blue Jays' thrilling World Series run. He discusses how the team defied expectations through health and chemistry, spotlighting Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s historic playoff surge. Murphy also highlights the fiery leadership of Max Scherzer, the remarkable rise of rookie Trey Savage, and John Schneider's development as a manager. With star-studded competition, including Shohei Ohtani, he shares what this run means to Toronto and its devoted fans.

Beverly Gage, historian and author of 'G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century,' delves into the FBI's notorious COINTELPRO program. She reveals its focus on dismantling Black activism and the anti-war movement, highlighting the agency's tactics to prevent influential leaders. Gage warns that echoes of these oppressive strategies persist today, with modern rhetoric reminiscent of Hoover's era. The discussion includes alarming parallels between historical and contemporary policing strategies, raising crucial questions about civil liberties.

Stephen Maher, a seasoned federal politics reporter, joins to dissect Pierre Poilievre's explosive claims that the RCMP sheltered Justin Trudeau from criminal charges. Maher analyzes how this rhetoric may resonate with Poilievre's base, as well as the backlash from within his own caucus. The discussion pivots to the auto industry's turmoil, spotlighting Stellantis's plant relocation to Illinois, which threatens Ontario's economy. Maher emphasizes the need for legal accountability and the potential shifts in U.S.-Canada trade relations.