Power & Politics

In this insightful discussion, guests Adam Chambers, a Conservative MP for Ontario, and Steven MacKinnon, Government House Leader, tackle crucial budgetary issues facing Canada. Chambers criticizes the Liberal government's choice to skip presenting a budget, labeling it detrimental to investor confidence. MacKinnon counters with insights into the Liberals' spending priorities and legislative plans. They explore the implications of the $14.6-billion Ontario deficit and the challenges in a minority parliament navigating budget responsibilities without clarity.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne says the government's first priority is passing a tax cut for July 1, but signals that the Liberals aren't planning to release a budget this year — just an economic statement in the fall. Plus, Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith explains why he posted on social media that it's 'impossible not to feel disrespected' after being left out of cabinet on Tuesday.

Mélanie Joly, Industry Minister and former Foreign Affairs Minister, discusses her unexpected cabinet shuffle amidst a trade war with the U.S., asserting that she requested the change. Alongside her, Gregor Robertson, the new housing and infrastructure minister, emphasizes the urgent need for innovative solutions to Canada's housing crisis. Conservative MP Kyle Seeback expresses skepticism about the cabinet's new direction, claiming there's still a strong presence of Trudeau-era ministers, which raises questions about true change amid economic challenges.

Louis Blouin, Radio Canada’s Parliamentary Bureau Chief, joins experts to analyze Prime Minister Mark Carney's impending cabinet reshuffle. They discuss the inclusion of new faces and the need for gender parity in leadership, while highlighting the balance between innovation and continuity. Vina Nadjibulla shares insights on the recent U.S.-China tariff agreement amid escalating trade tensions, exploring its implications on global economics. The conversation also touches on the complexities facing Carney’s cabinet, particularly in managing Alberta’s political landscape and carbon pricing challenges.

In this discussion, Michael Solberg, a former staffer in the Stephen Harper government, delves into the ever-evolving relationships in Canadian politics. He highlights the shared backgrounds and unique rapport between Trump and Carney. The conversation shifts to the Conservatives' post-defeat rebuilding strategies and the significance of public sentiment in U.S.-Canada negotiations. Alberta's rising separatist sentiments and potential cabinet reshuffles are also explored, providing insights into the political landscape's shifting dynamics and the need for effective engagement.

Kirsten Hillman, Canada's ambassador to the U.S., discusses the hopeful tone for a trade deal following the Prime Minister's meeting with President Trump. Susan Holt, Premier of New Brunswick, highlights the economic impact of tariffs on employment while remaining optimistic about growth in innovative industries. Corey Hogan talks about Alberta’s role in Confederation and energy policy amidst rising sentiments of dissatisfaction. Melanie Richet provides insights into the political dynamics at play, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in addressing trade and economic challenges.

Katie Simpson, CBC's correspondent in Washington, discusses the precarious trade deal between the U.S. and the U.K. Christine Normandin, Bloc Québécois House Leader, opens up about her party's collaborative spirit with the Liberal minority government. James Moore and Andrew Thompson offer insights into the turbulent Canadian political landscape. Shachi Curl shares thoughts on how trade wars could risk Canada's financial stability, echoing the Bank of Canada's urgent warnings about market dysfunction and economic fallout.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly was in the room when Prime Minister Mark Carney met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday. She explains what they accomplished for Canada in Washington, despite no changes to tariffs. Plus, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew weighs in on Carney's performance after the prime minister briefed premiers on the meeting. 

Katie Simpson from CBC brings a keen perspective from outside the White House, while Goldy Hyder, President of the Business Council of Canada, shares insights from his D.C. meetings. David Paterson, representing Ontario, dives into the significance of the Canadian Prime Minister's diplomatic engagement with Trump. They discuss the impact of Trump's '51st state' comments, ongoing tariff challenges, and the importance of military collaboration between the two nations. The conversation highlights a shift in tone and renewed efforts to stabilize trade relations.