Power & Politics

Ontario Conservative MP Michael Ma announced Thursday evening that he was crossing the floor to the Liberals, bringing the government within one seat of the 172-vote threshold for a majority in the House of Commons. Power & Politics breaks the news live on the program and gets instant reaction from the bureau chiefs of the Globe and Mail, Canadian Press and La Presse. Plus, despite no official resumption of Canada's trade talks, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne tells Power & Politics that 'what we're trying to do now is sectoral deals' with the U.S. and that 'discussions are ongoing.' 

There's no official word yet on who will be replacing Kirsten Hillman once she leaves her post as Canada's ambassador to the U.S. in January, but whoever picks up that file will soon be heading into CUSMA negotiations. Power & Politics hears from former ambassador Frank Mckenna. The Power Panel weighs in.

Liberal MP Corey Hogan weighs in on the breaking news that Canada’s Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman is stepping down. Plus, Liberal MPs reject an attempt to put their caucus in an uncomfortable position, as Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre tries to wedge the Liberals on their pipeline support. The Power Panel breaks down the vote. 

The Conservatives are looking to magnify a potential rift in Liberal caucus on Tuesday, with a motion that would force MPs to show their support for a new oil pipeline to B.C. and changes to the North Coast tanker ban. Andrew Scheer tells Power & Politics his party is putting forward the motion because 'Canadians deserve clarity,' and accuses Prime Minister Mark Carney of delivering a different message to Alberta than other parts of the country. Plus, Catherine Abreu explains why she was one of two members who resigned from Canada's Net-Zero Advisory Body last week, saying the Carney government 'at no point' sought its advice on the oil and gas projects it's supporting.

Carleen Varion, a former chief of staff and political commentator, Ginny Roth, an ex-Conservative campaign strategist, and Zain Velji, a former NDP strategist, unpack pivotal moments in Canadian politics. They dissect Stephen Gilbeau's resignation and Liberal caucus dynamics, explore climate-related tensions within the party, and debate the impact of pipeline politics on voter sentiment. The discussion also touches on Mark Carney’s meeting with Donald Trump and its implications for US-Canada trade talks. Expect insights on electoral math and regional challenges!

Jean Charest, former Premier of Quebec, discusses the delicate balance of trade negotiations amid U.S. posturing on CUSMA. Katie Simpson reveals the lighthearted rapport between leaders Carney, Trump, and Sheinbaum at the FIFA World Cup draw, followed by a private meeting focused on trade. Goldie Heider emphasizes the importance of industry stability and Canada’s assets. They explore the complexities of economic realities versus political rhetoric, and fears of Quebec separatism woven into ongoing discussions.

Trevor Halford, the new interim leader of the BC Conservative Party and MLA for Surrey-White Rock, discusses strategies for stabilizing the party following John Rustad’s dramatic resignation to prevent a 'civil war.' He shares insights on uniting the caucus and potential outreach to departed MLAs. Patty Hajdu, Federal Minister of Jobs and Families, addresses the significant layoffs at Algoma Steel and outlines federal supports for displaced workers, including changes to child-care subsidies in Ontario, highlighting the ongoing challenges in affordability.

This week, guests include Brad Wood, Senior Director at the National Foreign Trade Council, who advocates for the renewal of KUSMA to ensure stable U.S. business interests. Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, responds to Indigenous backlash towards her government's pipeline deal with Alberta. Hassan Youssef emphasizes Canada’s need to prepare for potential fallout from U.S. trade threats and stresses coordination on national responses. The discussion reveals the tension between trade agreements and Indigenous rights, highlighting critical stakes for both sides.

Stephen Buffalo, President and CEO of the Indian Resource Council of Canada, advocates for Indigenous participation in energy, emphasizing the economic opportunities tied to the MOU with Alberta. Elizabeth May, Green Party Leader, shares her regrets about supporting the federal budget due to the MOU, critiquing its implications for national unity and environmental commitments. Michael Garcia, CEO of Algoma Steel, addresses recent layoffs and the company's shift in strategy amidst tariffs, while discussing the impact of federal support on their future.

Prime Minister Mark Carney left Trudeau-era mainstay Marc Miller out of his first cabinet, but turned to the former immigration minister on Monday to replace Steven Guilbeault as minister of Canadian identity and official languages. Miller joins Power & Politics to discuss his return. Plus, Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker reacts to Algoma Steel's confirmation that it served 1,000 layoff notices to workers at its plant in the city.