Power & Politics

The Liberals table their Strong Borders Act they say will protect Canada's sovereignty, strengthen the border and keep Canadians safe. Guest host J.P. Tasker asks Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree what border czar Tom Homan had to say about it. Plus, deputy leader of the Conservative Party Melissa Lantsman joins Power & Politics to discuss a Conservative motion that passed in the House of Commons, urging the government to table an economic update before the summer.

Prime Minister Mark Carney spells out his criteria for what qualifies as a project of 'national interest.' While there are no specific examples coming out of the first ministers' meeting, Carney says it will be a 'living list.' Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy Dominic LeBlanc, and the premiers of Alberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador join Power & Politics live on set in Saskatoon.

Parliament is back, marking a historic moment with King Charles's throne speech emphasizing Canadian autonomy. The discussion dives into the significance of identity within the constitutional monarchy versus a presidential system. The absence of Poilievre sparks conversations on leadership challenges and Conservative members' mixed emotions toward the Liberal government. The podcast also highlights the government's role in nation-building, particularly in collaboration with indigenous peoples, while navigating the complexities of political ambitions among leaders.

Eleanor Olszewski, the Federal Minister of Emergency Management, shares the urgent governmental response to wildfires forcing evacuations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Susan Holt, Premier of New Brunswick, likens upcoming nation-building endeavors to 'The Hunger Games' while discussing economic growth strategies. Fred Delory and Greg McEachern offer keen insights into the current political landscape, emphasizing collaboration among provinces to tackle infrastructural challenges and improve trade. Climate change's role in exacerbating wildfires is also highlighted.

François-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Finance Minister, Dan Rayfield, Oregon's Attorney General, and Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto, dive into the tumultuous world of trade tariffs. Rayfield critiques the Trump administration's judicial attacks, calling them disgraceful following federal court rulings on tariffs. Champagne highlights the volatility in U.S.-Canada relations amid ongoing legal battles. Discussing the pressing housing crisis, Chow emphasizes the need for immediate federal intervention to enhance affordable housing in Toronto. It's a whirlwind of politics and urgent issues!

Christyn Cianfarani, President of the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, shares insights on the growth and funding potential of Canada’s defense sector. Melissa Lantsman, Conservative deputy leader, discusses party dynamics while Pierre Poilievre remains seatless. They delve into the recent question period featuring Prime Minister Mark Carney and highlight the strategic shifts amidst the Conservative Party's leadership challenges. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for economic policy reforms and bipartisan cooperation in tackling pressing issues.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, previously the Governor of the Bank of Canada, opens up about the significance of King Charles' throne speech for Canadian identity. He dives deep into trade dynamics with the U.S., discussing tariff challenges and Canada’s strategy for domestic defense investment. Carney addresses the pressing housing crisis, calling for innovative solutions to enhance affordability and combat homelessness. He emphasizes the need for collaboration amidst Alberta's energy landscape and critiques the slow legislative process, spotlighting the urgency for action.

In this discussion, Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon outlines the government's legislative priorities and the urgency of passing key measures. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew emphasizes the need for national unity projects ahead of the First Ministers' meeting. Former NDP Campaign Director Brad Levine shares insights on the King's speech and the government's objectives, while columnist Emily Nicola analyzes its political implications and the dynamics in the House. Together, they address challenges in fostering collaboration among parties in a minority government.

Join former Harper government staffer Michael Solberg, known for his sharp political insights, and Zain Velji, ex-strategist for the Alberta NDP, as they dissect Carney's single mandate. They explore the implications for governance and accountability, highlighting public demand for transparency. The duo critiques the vagueness in the government's agenda while addressing Canada-U.S. relations, missile defense initiatives, and the balancing act of maintaining national identity amidst economic challenges and rising separatism rhetoric.

Kevin Cramer, a Republican Senator from North Dakota, and Mélanie Joly, Canada's Innovation Minister, discuss the recent U.S. senators’ meeting with Canadian officials. They share insights on optimism for a new trade deal amid complex U.S.-Canada relations, focusing on tariffs and military cooperation. Joly highlights the importance of strategic negotiations to support industries affected by U.S. policies. The conversation also touches on defense spending and its impact on job creation in Canada, intertwining economic strategy with diplomatic dynamics.