At Issue

In this insightful discussion, political heavyweights Chantal Hébert, Andrew Coyne, and Althia Raj delve into the landscape of Canadian politics leading up to 2026. They dissect the implications of NDP leadership choices on party dynamics and explore Quebec's shifting political tides. The panel also talks about the unpredictable relationship with the U.S., potential crises on the horizon, and the stakes of Alberta’s separatist sentiments. Mark Carney's leadership priorities take center stage, underscoring the evolving political climate.

Join Althia Raj, a savvy political columnist, Andrew Coyne, a conservative commentator known for his incisive analysis, and Chantal Hébert, a national affairs specialist, as they dissect Canada's political highs and lows in 2025. They explore Mark Carney's surprising rise and the Liberals' recovery, delve into the consequences of democratic erosion in the U.S., and critique key leadership moves. The discussion also highlights the impact of provincial leaders and raises alarms about the normalization of the notwithstanding clause. Buckle up for a wild ride through politics!

Chantal Hébert, a prominent political columnist, Andrew Coyne, an influential opinion journalist, and Althia Raj, a keen political reporter, join forces to discuss the impact of Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal government this sitting. They delve into the effectiveness of recent bills and the challenges of minority governance, including the role of alliances and the absence of the NDP. The resignation of ambassador Kirsten Hillman raises concerns over U.S. trade talks, while new broad ministerial powers prompt debates on accountability in Parliament.

Guests Althia Raj, a political columnist, Chantal Hébert, a national affairs journalist, and Andrew Coyne, an opinion columnist, dive into Trump’s potential exit from CUSMA and its implications for Canada. They explore the procedural risks and political incentives surrounding U.S. trade reviews, stressing the importance of alignment with Mexico. The discussion shifts to the backlash against Mark Miller’s French comments in Quebec and examines the impact of John Rustad's departure from B.C. Conservatives on provincial dynamics.

Chantal Hébert, a political commentator, Andrew Coyne, a centre-right analyst, Althia Raj, a federal politics journalist, and Jason Markusoff, an Alberta energy reporter, dive into the controversial new pipeline partnership between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta's Danielle Smith. They discuss the environmental implications, political dynamics, and industry reactions. There's skepticism around Alberta's commitments and concerns about potential concessions to the U.S. trade negotiations, showcasing the complex landscape of Canadian politics and energy policy.

Chantal Hébert, a savvy political columnist, dives into the recent budget vote's implications alongside Andrew Coyne, an astute commentator on minority governance, and Althia Raj, an insightful political reporter. They discuss Alberta’s pipeline push and the potential fallout from party dynamics, revealing a fragile peace in the Commons. The group also evaluates Canada's trade relations amid a shifting U.S. stance. With trust issues among parties and the balancing act of Indigenous engagement, this discussion unveils the complexities of Canadian politics today.

Chantal Hébert, a veteran political journalist, Andrew Coyne, an insightful editorial columnist, and Althia Raj, a sharp political reporter, discuss Prime Minister Mark Carney's ambitious nation-building agenda and its implications for Canada's future. They delve into the complexities of major infrastructure projects and the political dynamics facing Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre amid party turmoil. The panel also critiques Quebec's overreaching healthcare reforms, highlighting the importance of respect and negotiation in dealing with medical professionals.

Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political columnist, Andrew Coyne, a sharp opinion commentator, and Althia Raj, an insightful political reporter, dive into the turmoil surrounding Pierre Poilievre's leadership. They discuss the recent events of MPs crossing the floor and resignations, exposing chaos within Poilievre’s caucus. Coyne highlights the detrimental effects of an exclusionary approach on public perception and electoral prospects, while Raj advocates for fostering better MP-leader relations. The conversation also touches on immigration cuts, critiquing their potential long-term consequences for Canada.

This episode features Andrew Coyne, a seasoned political columnist known for his sharp critiques, Althia Raj, a political reporter analyzing contemporary policy choices, and Chantal Hébert, a national affairs columnist with deep insights into political strategies. They debate Mark Carney's first budget, questioning its transformative promises and evaluating its alignment with past governmental approaches. Discussions revolve around its economic implications, potential political fallout, and whether it effectively targets Conservative dissidents, showcasing a fascinating blend of fiscal analysis and political commentary.

Althia Raj, a savvy political reporter, joins seasoned commentator Chantal Hébert and political writer Jason Markusoff for an insightful discussion. They dive deep into the recent turmoil in Canada-U.S. trade negotiations, sparked by a controversial anti-tariff ad that upset Trump. The trio analyzes the economic fallout for Canadian sectors like auto and steel, debates the implications of the federal budget, and unpacks the contentious use of the notwithstanding clause in Alberta's labor issues, raising critical questions about political strategy and rights.