Power & Politics

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will reach NATO's two per cent of GDP defence spending target this fiscal year — a dramatic acceleration from his previous 2030 timeline. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra tells Power & Politics that the U.S. is 'thankful' for the spending and says it shows 'clear progress' for trade and security talks between the president and prime minister. Then, Canada's top military commander, Gen. Jennie Carignan, argues the increased cash can build capacity in the armed forces despite procurement and staffing limitations.

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Laura D’Angelo, Michael Solberg and Zain Velji.

Energy Minister Tim Hodgson defends a new Liberal bill's ability to speed up the approval of projects of 'national interest,' despite critics' concerns about Indigenous consultation and environmental assessment. Plus, Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal — who represents the riding where Canada has accused Indian government agents of involvement with the killing of a Sikh separatist — opposes Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi to the G7 Summit in Alberta. 

U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have been speaking privately in hopes of reaching a trade deal and lifting tariffs, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly confirmed Thursday. Radio-Canada's Louis Blouin reports the latest details. Plus, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., Mayor Matthew Shoemaker discusses what the damage to the steel industry from 50 per cent U.S. tariffs will mean for his city. 

Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada is in 'intensive' talks with the U.S. about the doubling of steel and aluminum tariffs, and is 'preparing reprisals' in case talks fail. President and CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association Catherine Cobden tells Power & Politics that the increased tariffs could weaken the steel sector 'in a matter of days.' Plus, Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson says ‘there’s still a lot of unity' among premiers despite continued splintering over pipelines since Monday's first ministers' meeting. 

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!