At Issue

CBC
undefined
Dec 12, 2025 • 23min

What Carney’s Liberal accomplished this sitting

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.
undefined
7 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 22min

What if Trump blows up the CUSMA trade deal?

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.
undefined
Nov 28, 2025 • 25min

Carney’s Alberta pipeline partnership

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.
undefined
Nov 21, 2025 • 23min

Will there be fallout from the budget vote?

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.
undefined
Nov 14, 2025 • 24min

Can Carney make Canada an energy superpower?

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.
undefined
Nov 7, 2025 • 24min

Is Pierre Poilievre’s leadership in trouble?

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.
undefined
Nov 5, 2025 • 9min

Carney’s 1st budget

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.
undefined
Oct 31, 2025 • 25min

Canada-U.S. trade negotiations go off the rails

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.
undefined
Oct 24, 2025 • 24min

Carney hints at ‘sacrifices’ in the next budget

This time, Andrew Coyne, a sharp columnist known for dissecting Canadian politics, joins Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political analyst, and Althia Raj, a keen observer of party dynamics. They dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney’s stark warnings about 'sacrifices' in the looming budget. The discussion explores how public acceptance of austerity hinges on competent execution. Plus, the panel assesses Pierre Poilievre’s controversial comments and Canada's warming trade ties with India, weighing the balance between profit and national security.
undefined
9 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 22min

Cracks in Canada’s united front on tariffs?

Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political commentator, Andrew Coyne, a prominent columnist, and Althia Raj, a political reporter, dive into Canada's tariff turmoil. They explore how provincial interests clash and the federal government's need for better communication. Coyne warns against trading regional interests and emphasizes long-term investment strategies. They also discuss Liberal bail reforms, with concerns about civil liberties and resource limitations. Lastly, Coyne critiques Pierre Poilievre's accusations against the RCMP, highlighting the risk to public trust in justice institutions.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app