
At Issue
Cut through the spin with Canada’s top political journalists. Host Rosemary Barton and columnists Althia Raj, Chantal Hébert and Andrew Coyne break down the week’s biggest political stories shaping the country. Brought to you by CBC News: The National. New episodes drop every Friday.
Latest episodes

Jan 10, 2025 • 23min
Canada’s response to Trump’s threats
Chantal Hébert, Andrew Coyne, and Althia Raj, renowned Canadian political commentators, dive into the tumultuous landscape of Canada's political scene. They discuss how Canada plans to navigate Trump’s escalating threats while maintaining its sovereignty. The trio examines the Liberal leadership race, dissecting key players like Christia Freeland and Mark Carney. They also address the urgent issue of foreign election interference, stressing the need for reforms to protect electoral integrity in the face of international turbulence.

Jan 7, 2025 • 22min
Justin Trudeau’s decision to step down
Chantal Hébert, a seasoned Canadian political columnist, joins Andrew Coyne, a sharp political commentator, and Aaron Wherry, a well-respected journalist, to dissect Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to step down. They delve into the internal party dissent that led to his resignation and its dramatic impact on the political landscape. The trio also discusses potential successors, particularly Mark Carney, and how shifting alliances may reshape Canadian politics amidst economic challenges and looming elections.

Jan 3, 2025 • 24min
Your political questions answered
Chantal Hébert, a savvy political columnist, Andrew Coyne, a seasoned journalist, and Althia Raj, a sharp commentator, tackle pressing questions about Canadian politics as 2025 approaches. They discuss the financial fears of seniors and the engagement challenges facing younger voters amidst affordability crises. The panel also examines the Bloc Québécois's potential role as the official opposition and analyzes Pierre Poiliev's campaign strategy focused on catchy slogans. Lastly, they explore the shortcomings of Canada's first-past-the-post system and the implications for party loyalty.