Power & Politics

Join Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who champions a controversial pipeline memorandum of understanding, and Federal Minister Tim Hodgson, who defends it as an economic necessity while emphasizing environmental safeguards. British Columbia Premier David Eby, however, strongly opposes the deal, calling it an 'energy vampire' that threatens local projects and Indigenous rights. As tensions rise, they delve into the complexities of environmental commitments, economic aspirations, and the potential fallout of a divided political landscape.

John Rustad, Leader of the B.C. Conservative Party and former cabinet minister, passionately debates the controversial pipeline plans, calling provincial opposition 'naive.' Meanwhile, Catherine Cobden, President of the Canadian Steel Producers Association, expresses optimism about new federal measures to protect the steel industry from U.S. tariffs. The discussion delves into the political ramifications of these plans and the urgent need for strategic support amidst ongoing trade tensions.

Adrian Dix, B.C. Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, discusses the risks posed by the federal-Alberta pipeline negotiations and the lack of consultation with First Nations. Jonathan Wilkinson, former federal Minister of Environment, urges Liberal MPs to remain calm, highlighting the importance of Indigenous support in the proposed MOU. Both guests emphasize the implications of the deal on B.C.'s energy projects and the necessity for updated climate strategies, revealing tensions within the Liberal caucus over the political fallout from these major decisions.

Anita Anand, the Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, discusses Canada's strategic re-engagement with India amid trade negotiations and security dialogues. Scott Moe, Saskatchewan's Premier, emphasizes his provincial support for pipeline initiatives and the discussions with federal leaders. Political analyst Rob Russo examines the implications of the new memorandum of understanding and its potential political risks, while strategist Brad Levine highlights the pushback from British Columbia and the broader impact on federal decisions.

Laura D'Angelo, a political advisor who worked with Justin Trudeau, Rachael Segal, a former director in Stephen Harper's government, and Zain Velji, an Alberta NDP strategist, discuss the recent tight budget vote in Canada. They debate the Liberals' approach and the potential for future parliamentary conflicts. Insightful analysis on Elizabeth May's negotiation tactics reveals the complexity of PMO deals. The panel also explores implications of a new Alberta-federal MOU for a coastal pipeline and the political risks facing Mark Carney's government.

Maninder Sidhu is Canada’s Federal Minister of International Trade, while Kevin Cramer serves as a Republican U.S. senator from North Dakota. They explore the recent pause in Canada-U.S. trade talks due to an Ontario ad and Cramer’s hopes for a thaw in relations. Sidhu details Canada’s $70 billion investment pledge from the UAE, focusing on energy and AI sectors. Cramer emphasizes the mutual benefits of partnership and discusses the implications of U.S. tariffs on Canada, suggesting renewed dialogues to foster cooperation.

David Eby, the Premier of British Columbia, expresses shock at Saskatchewan's secret involvement in pipeline discussions with Ottawa and Alberta, emphasizing the need for B.C. representation due to local impacts. Micael Johansson, CEO of Saab, advocates for his company's Gripen fighter jet proposal, claiming it enhances Canadian sovereignty and can create thousands of jobs through local production. The conversation reveals tensions over resource management, indigenous rights, and the strategic importance of military technology in national defense.

Mike Duheme, RCMP Commissioner, shares insights on cross-border law enforcement while discussing the chase of ex-Olympian Ryan Wedding, linked to major drug trafficking. Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson makes a compelling case for Canada's adoption of Saab's Gripen fighter jets, highlighting industrial cooperation. Political strategist Brad Levine joins the power panel to dissect the implications of a potential Alberta-Ottawa agreement on an oil pipeline, while examining Indigenous consultation challenges and the broader national political landscape.

Steven MacKinnon, the Liberal Government House Leader, discusses navigating a minority parliament and the budget's narrow passage. He believes opposition parties secretly supported parts of the budget. Don Davies, the interim NDP leader, explains his party's strategic abstentions to avoid triggering an election while expressing concerns about the budget's climate impact. They also dive into the implications of Conservative absences and tactical voting, revealing insights into political alliances and the intricacies of parliamentary maneuvering.

Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada, shares her reasoning for supporting the budget amidst pressing climate commitments. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham discusses the significance of provincial priorities like offshore development and fisheries during his meeting with the Prime Minister. Columnist Rick Bell analyzes the political strategies behind the budget vote, while Don Davies of the NDP outlines their critical vote strategy ensuring stability over an immediate election.