Power & Politics

Power & Politics

By: CBC

Language: en-ca

Categories: News, Politics

On Power & Politics, host David Cochrane asks decision-makers the questions that matter – and gets answers. Every weekday, we feature hard-hitting interviews with politicians and leaders, check in with CBC’s top political journalists for updates on breaking stories, and take the time to analyze the latest developments with a cast of regular panelists and critical thinkers. Whether you’re getting caught up on Canadian politics daily or weekly, we’ve got an insider’s view of the continuously-unfolding drama.'

Episodes

Vance blames ICE shooting victim for 'tragedy of her own making'
Jan 08, 2026

U.S. Vice-President JD Vance says Renee Nicole Good, the woman fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, Minn., on Wednesday, is 'dead because she tried to ram somebody with her car.' University of Wisconsin associate professor of law and use of force expert John Gross breaks down every stage of the encounter between ICE and Good, saying it's clear from video that 'she never attempted to ram the officer.' Then, Minnesota state Sen. Zaynab Mohamed refutes Vance's claim that Good was part of a radical left-wing network, saying 'the only radical group' is his administration...

Duration: 00:50:01
Fatal ICE shooting stokes fury in Minneapolis
Jan 07, 2026

 A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed a woman in Minneapolis on Wednesday less than two kilometres from where a police officer murdered George Floyd in 2020. Minneapolis city council member Aurin Chowdhury tells ICE to 'pack your bags and leave,' arguing the Trump administration is using an 'occupation' and false anti-immigrant narrative to distract from economic failures. Then, civil rights lawyer and past president of the Minneapolis NAACP Nekima Levy Armstrong refutes U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that the shooting was self-defence: 'If there were concerns about her trying to drive away, you c...

Duration: 00:47:42
White House says military 'always an option' to acquire Greenland
Jan 06, 2026

The White House clarified its ambitions for Greenland on Tuesday, stating that 'acquiring Greenland is a national security priority' for the U.S. and that 'utilizing the U.S. Military is always an option.' Greenland's pro-independence opposition leader Pele Broberg responds by arguing for direct negotiations with the U.S. on Greenland's future. Then, Former Canadian Ambassador to NATO Kerry Buck discusses what a threat from NATO's most powerful member to annex another member's territory could mean for the future of the alliance. 

Duration: 00:59:30
Trump says U.S. 'in charge' of Venezuela, threatens more countries
Jan 05, 2026

After arresting the president of Venezuela, U.S. President Donald Trump is issuing new threats, warnings and predictions of collapse for Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Greenland and Iran — all while his State Department posts online that 'This is OUR Hemisphere.' Canada's former UN ambassador discusses how Trump and other powerful leaders are trying to 'carve up' the world. Plus, former Colombian vice-president Francisco Santos Calderón reacts to Trump's threat of military action against Colombia.

Duration: 00:51:43
Political Pulse panel on stories to watch in 2026
Dec 24, 2025

Power and Politics' panel of political insiders — Greg MacEachern, Melanie Richer and Fred DeLorey — on Canadian political stories to watch in 2026.

Duration: 00:45:50
The top five political newsmakers of 2025
Dec 23, 2025

Host David Cochrane and Power Panelists Laura D’Angelo, Tim Powers, Jordan Leichnitz and Charelle Evelyn count down the top five political newsmakers of 2025.

Duration: 00:45:04
Year-End Reporter Roundtable
Dec 22, 2025

Host David Cochrane and the Reporter Roundtable panel reflect on events of 2025 from the federal election to Trump’s trade war.

Duration: 00:46:20
Yearly Wrap: How 2025 turned political fortunes upside down
Dec 20, 2025

For a year that changed just about everything we know about the Canadian political landscape, Power & Politics is upgrading the final Weekly Wrap podcast of 2025 to our Yearly Wrap. Zain Velji, Carlene Variyan and Rachael Segal break down Mark Carney's rise to prime minister, the Conservative reversal of fortunes and whether Carney has lived up to his big promises both at home and south of the border.

Duration: 00:33:01
How an NDP review explains its worst-ever election result
Dec 20, 2025

The NDP released an internal review of the election campaign that wiped out more than two-thirds of its caucus on Friday, which avoids casting blame on the party by saying it 'ran a technically solid campaign in a brutal environment.' CBC's David Thurton takes us through the report. Plus, International Rescue Committee CEO David Miliband lays out the worsening humanitarian emergencies driving an annual report the group calls New World Disorder.

Duration: 00:47:53
Top U.S. trade official lays out demands for CUSMA talks
Dec 18, 2025

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told Congress on Wednesday that the review of the North American trade deal 'depends on' resolving a list of issues with Mexico and Canada, including Canada's barriers to dairy, provincial boycotts of U.S. alcohol, the Online Streaming Act and the Online News Act. Future Borders Coalition executive director Laura Dawson frames it as positive that the U.S. is signalling it wants to improve — not abandon — the deal. Plus, responding to Prime Minister Mark Carney's doubts that Canada can secure U.S. tariff relief before a CUSMA review, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says...

Duration: 00:55:46
Carney on floor-crossers: 'MPs are attracted to what we're doing'
Dec 17, 2025

CBC's Rosemary Barton debriefs on her one-on-one interview with Prime Minister Mark Carney, where Carney didn't answer when asked if there's an active recruitment campaign to take MPs from other parties. Then, CBC's Cathy Senay reports that Pablo Rodriguez will announce his resignation as leader of the Quebec Liberal Party on Thursday, with sources telling Radio-Canada that Rodriguez felt he'd become too great a distraction after weeks of controversies and party turmoil. Former Quebec deputy premier Michelle Courchesne and former Harper government adviser Rudy Husny discuss what this means for the chances that Quebec could be headed for a...

Duration: 00:47:16
Carney says Canada won't meet climate targets with current policy
Dec 16, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney tells Radio-Canada that he's making a major change to a 'pragmatic' climate policy, but that the policies Canada currently has in place will not be enough to meet its 2030 and 2035 climate goals. Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin tells Power & Politics that the climate goals are still possible — despite some experts and former cabinet colleague Steven Guilbeault saying that the policies Carney removed have put 2030 out of reach. Plus, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly argues that a $70-billion mining merger is a 'net benefit' for Canada.

Duration: 00:51:49
Liberals tease more possible floor-crossers
Dec 15, 2025

When reporters asked Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson about the potential of more MPs crossing the floor to the Liberals on Monday, Hodgson hinted that he's getting 'lots of inquiries.' Former Liberal campaign co-chair David Herle and former Conservative chief of staff David McLaughlin break down whether Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's response to the crossings will be enough to shore up his caucus — and his future as leader. Plus, the Power Panel weighs in on new comments from Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who says the next direct U.S. engagement on trade likely won't be until th...

Duration: 00:52:01
Weekly Wrap: Will Conservative splinters complete a Liberal majority?
Dec 15, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel looks back on how a Conservative plan to fracture the Liberals over pipeline support was quickly overshadowed by another defection from Conservative caucus — putting the Liberals just one seat away from a majority. With Rachael Segal, Ginny Roth and Zain Velji.

Duration: 00:16:54
Is Poilievre's shrinking caucus threatening his leadership?
Dec 12, 2025

Two Conservative MPs defected to the Liberals and a third announced his resignation in the months leading up to Pierre Poilievre's leadership review in January. Ontario Conservative MP Adam Chambers tells Power & Politics that 'many people' still support Poilievre after the second floor-crossing. But interim NDP Leader Don Davies tells host David Cochrane that 'if I were Mr. Poilievre, I'd be deeply concerned.'

Duration: 00:54:22
Another Conservative crossing puts Liberals 1 seat from majority
Dec 11, 2025

Ontario Conservative MP Michael Ma announced Thursday evening that he was crossing the floor to the Liberals, bringing the government within one seat of the 172-vote threshold for a majority in the House of Commons. Power & Politics breaks the news live on the program and gets instant reaction from the bureau chiefs of the Globe and Mail, Canadian Press and La Presse. Plus, despite no official resumption of Canada's trade talks, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne tells Power & Politics that 'what we're trying to do now is sectoral deals' with the U.S. and that 'discussions are ongoing.' 

Duration: 00:53:36
What dynamic is Canada's next ambassador to the U.S. inheriting?
Dec 10, 2025

There's no official word yet on who will be replacing Kirsten Hillman once she leaves her post as Canada's ambassador to the U.S. in January, but whoever picks up that file will soon be heading into CUSMA negotiations. Power & Politics hears from former ambassador Frank Mckenna. The Power Panel weighs in.

Duration: 00:58:07
Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman announces her resignation
Dec 10, 2025

Liberal MP Corey Hogan weighs in on the breaking news that Canada’s Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman is stepping down. Plus, Liberal MPs reject an attempt to put their caucus in an uncomfortable position, as Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre tries to wedge the Liberals on their pipeline support. The Power Panel breaks down the vote. 

Duration: 00:58:10
Will a Conservative pipeline test fracture the Liberals?
Dec 08, 2025

The Conservatives are looking to magnify a potential rift in Liberal caucus on Tuesday, with a motion that would force MPs to show their support for a new oil pipeline to B.C. and changes to the North Coast tanker ban. Andrew Scheer tells Power & Politics his party is putting forward the motion because 'Canadians deserve clarity,' and accuses Prime Minister Mark Carney of delivering a different message to Alberta than other parts of the country. Plus, Catherine Abreu explains why she was one of two members who resigned from Canada's Net-Zero Advisory Body last week, saying the Carney...

Duration: 00:59:26
Weekly Wrap: Will a soccer meeting bring Trump back to the table?
Dec 06, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Carlene Variyan, Ginny Roth and Zain Velji.


Duration: 00:22:51
Carney, Trump and Sheinbaum laugh it up, meet privately in D.C.
Dec 05, 2025

The leaders of all three nations in the North American free trade deal spent more than an hour chatting and laughing in the stands of the FIFA World Cup draw on Friday, before Prime Minister Mark Carney, U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum retreated to a 45-minute private meeting without any staff. Prime Minister’s Council on Canada-U.S. Relations member Jean Charest warns that Canada can 'expect a lot of posturing' like threats to abandon CUSMA from the U.S., but that patience and focus will preserve the deal. Plus, CBC's Peter Armstrong explains ho...

Duration: 00:47:47
B.C. Conservative leader resigns to avoid a 'civil war'
Dec 04, 2025

The day after denying his party's announcement that they'd removed him as leader and posting on social media that he was 'not going anywhere,' John Rustad resigned his leadership of the B.C. Conservative Party. Trevor Halford, the new interim leader of the party, joins Power & Politics to discuss the path forward from the caucus revolt. Plus, Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu responds to Algoma Steel's layoff of 1,000 workers and explains the extension of federal child-care subsidies in Ontario as fees still remain above $10 a day. 

Duration: 00:59:22
Trump threatens to replace free trade deal with Canada
Dec 03, 2025

On the first day of hearings on the U.S. review of CUSMA, the free trade deal that exempts most Canadian goods from 35 per cent tariffs, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to either let it expire — the current deal would end in 2036 if not renewed — or pursue a different agreement. Brad Wood, a senior director at the National Foreign Trade Council who's testifying at the hearings, says he'll be telling the top U.S. trade official that keeping the deal is 'critical' for U.S. business. Plus, Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty reacts to the Assembly of Firs...

Duration: 00:47:33
Assembly of First Nations demands Ottawa scrap pipeline deal
Dec 02, 2025

In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, First Nations chiefs called for the withdrawal of the energy agreement between Ottawa and Alberta at the AFN's special chiefs assembly in Ottawa. B.C. Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Terry Teegee and Indian Resource Council president Stephen Buffalo join Power & Politics to respond to Prime Minister Mark Carney's address to the assembly. Plus, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May explains why she says voting for the Liberal budget was a 'mistake' she won't make again.


Duration: 00:53:40
Carney brings back Trudeau-era minister to replace Guilbeault
Dec 01, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney left Trudeau-era mainstay Marc Miller out of his first cabinet, but turned to the former immigration minister on Monday to replace Steven Guilbeault as minister of Canadian identity and official languages. Miller joins Power & Politics to discuss his return. Plus, Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Matthew Shoemaker reacts to Algoma Steel's confirmation that it served 1,000 layoff notices to workers at its plant in the city.

Duration: 00:41:19
Weekly Wrap: Will Carney's pipeline deal split the party — and its voters?
Nov 29, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Laura D'Angelo, Rachael Segal and Zain Velji.

Duration: 00:21:32
Alberta premier gets boos from own party for optimism with Canada
Nov 28, 2025

It wasn't a victory lap for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith over her MOU with Ottawa that supports an oil pipeline on Friday, as she told the UCP base at their annual meeting that "I hope people today feel a lot more confident that Canada works than they did a couple of days ago" — and was met with a chorus of boos. Plus, Vancouver Liberal MP Taleeb Noormohamed and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Eleanor Olszewski defend against objections to the MOU from First Nations and the B.C. premier, and skepticism coming from some within Alberta that Ottawa is s...

Duration: 01:02:50
Liberal minister resigns in protest of Alberta energy deal
Nov 27, 2025

Former climate minister Steven Guilbeault stepped down from Liberal cabinet just hours after Alberta and Ottawa signed an MOU that supports an oil pipeline on Thursday, saying it would have 'major environmental impacts' and criticizing the lack of consultation with B.C. and Indigenous groups. Power & Politics speaks with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Energy Minister Tim Hodgson on why they're convinced the deal creates a real path forward on a pipeline, then hears from B.C. Premier David Eby on why he thinks the agreement is an 'energy vampire' that distracts from projects that will actually be built.<...

Duration: 01:05:07
Minister tells B.C. MPs their pipeline concerns are 'naive': source
Nov 26, 2025

Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson briefed an uneasy B.C. Liberal caucus on the upcoming Ottawa-Alberta agreement on Wednesday. A government source called it a 'good' discussion — but other sources in the meeting say Hodgson used words like 'naive' and 'ideological' to describe their political and environmental concerns. Plus, the presidents of steel and lumber trade groups discuss whether Ottawa's new suite of supports for their industries will be enough for them to survive U.S. tariffs as trade talks remain frozen.

Duration: 00:52:36
Some Liberal MPs 'seething,' 'anxious' over Carney's Alberta oil deal
Nov 25, 2025

Description: Speaking to Power & Politics host David Cochrane, sources within Liberal caucus used words including 'angry' to describe their reaction to Prime Minister Mark Carney's coming agreement with Alberta that supports its push for an oil pipeline. B.C. Liberal MP Jonathan Wilkinson advises his colleagues to take a breath, and says he's 'quite confident' that the MOU will seek the support of B.C. and Indigenous communities. Plus, B.C. Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix argues a deal between Ottawa and Alberta set for this week puts consent for B.C.'s own projects — and Ca...

Duration: 00:52:50
Carney deal with Alberta's Smith will support oil pipeline: sources
Nov 24, 2025

CBC's Kate McKenna reports that a memorandum of understanding set to be announced by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday will include political support for a pipeline and carve-outs from environmental laws, according to multiple sources. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe relays what he told Carney about why a pipeline to the B.C. coast is necessary. Plus, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand says that Canada's agreement to restart talks toward a trade deal with India is happening against the backdrop of a dialogue on security and interference.

Duration: 00:57:34
Weekly Wrap: What are the takeaways from close budget vote?
Nov 22, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Laura D'Angelo, Rachael Segal and Zain Velji.

Duration: 00:21:43
Republican senator 'optimistic' about Canada-U.S. trade talks resuming
Nov 21, 2025

Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer tells Power & Politics he's optimistic about a thawing of the Canada-U.S. relationship after President Donald Trump cut off trade talks over an anti-tariff ad run by Ontario. Plus, Power & Politics asks Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu how Canada secured a $70-billion investment pledge from the U.A.E. 

Duration: 00:54:22
B.C. slams 'secret' pipeline talks between Sask., Ottawa, Alberta
Nov 20, 2025

B.C. Premier David Eby tells Power & Politics that 'I almost fell out of my seat' when he learned that Saskatchewan is involved in conversations with Ottawa and Alberta about a pipeline to the B.C. coast — conversations Eby says B.C. was unaware of. Plus, Saab CEO Micael Johansson says it's up to Canada to make a decision on what fighter jets it buys, but makes the case for how Saab's model could enable Canadian sovereignty.

Duration: 00:44:01
Alberta and Ottawa nearing deal on oil, possible pipeline: source
Nov 19, 2025

As first reported by the Globe and Mail, a source confirms to CBC's J.P. Tasker that Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney are moving closer to reaching a deal on the future of Alberta's energy sector, and that it's likely to include some language about a path forward for a northwest B.C. oil pipeline. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme explains how Canada is working with the U.S. to pursue former Canadian Olympian Ryan Wedding, who U.S. officials accuse of being one of the world's most powerful drug lords and of murdering a federal...

Duration: 00:58:06
Which parties flinched to avoid an election?
Nov 18, 2025

Every party in the House of Commons except for the Bloc Québécois contributed to either votes or abstentions that allowed the Liberals to survive Monday's budget vote on a razor-thin margin. Liberal House leader Steven MacKinnon tells Power & Politics he thinks other parties 'secretly liked' large parts of the budget. Then, interim NDP Leader Don Davies says Conservative MPs Andrew Scheer and Scott Reid held back until the end of the budget vote on Monday because they were prepared to 'save this government' and prevent an election if necessary.


Duration: 00:53:13
Liberal government narrowly survives final budget vote
Nov 17, 2025

The House has passed the Liberal budget in a confidence vote that could have triggered another election — but it succeeded only because four MPs didn't vote, shrinking the number of votes needed for majority support. Follow the drama as it unfolded live on Power & Politics, with Green Party Leader Elizabeth May explaining why she was the only non-Liberal MP to vote in favour of the document. Plus, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham explains what he advocated for as premiers spoke with Prime Minister Mark Carney today. 


Duration: 00:45:11
Weekly Wrap: Is the budget vote a recipe for an election?
Nov 15, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Laura D'Angelo, Rachael Segal and Zain Velji.

Duration: 00:23:46
Will Monday's budget vote send Canada to another election?
Nov 15, 2025

The Liberals face a crucial confidence vote on the federal budget on Monday. Just two seats shy of a majority, will the party be able to shore up the support it needs to stave off another election? Power & Politics hears from Conservative MP Adam Chambers. Plus, Power & Politics hears parting words from Canada's ambassador to the UN Bob Rae.

Duration: 01:03:47
Carney recommends 7 new projects for fast-tracked approval
Nov 14, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney has recommended seven new initiatives to the Major Projects Office in a bid to boost the country's self-sufficiency and jolt the economy — but critics question the benefits of making that list. Power & Politics hears from Energy Minister Tim Hodgson and the Power Panel weighs in. Plus, Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine Smith responds to accusations that his critique of the federal budget indicates 'turmoil' in the Liberal caucus.

Duration: 00:55:07
Poilievre says he's not reflecting on how he leads as MPs exit
Nov 12, 2025

In his first news conference since one Conservative MP defected to the Liberals and another said he would resign, a reporter asked leader Pierre Poilievre if the departures say anything about his leadership or if they have prompted him to reflect on his leadership style. The Power Panel dissects Poilievre's answer: 'no.' CBC's Kate McKenna reports on six projects that will be on Prime Minister Mark Carney's second list of major projects on Thursday, according to CBC News sources. Plus, Kaja Kallas, vice-president of the European Commission, tells David Cochrane why she believes the EU must change to...

Duration: 00:53:09
Carney says second round of major projects coming Thursday
Nov 10, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced new details on Monday about his government's 'Buy Canadian' policy to ensure federal dollars are spent on Canadian suppliers — but in the process, also revealed that the second batch of projects selected for fast tracking through the Major Projects Office will be announced on Thursday. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly explains how her government is trying to strike a balance between supporting businesses with federal dollars and delaying projects with higher costs and longer wait times. Then, after meeting with her fellow premiers, New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt discusses her reaction to the budget and...

Duration: 00:57:10
Weekly Wrap: Conservative drama upstages the budget
Nov 08, 2025

The Weekly Wrap panel breaks down the biggest moments in Canadian politics this week. With Laura D'Angelo, Rachael Segal and Zain Velji.

Duration: 00:22:56
Liberals survive 2 budget confidence votes — but a 3rd is coming
Nov 07, 2025

The Liberal government breezed past a second potentially fatal vote tied to its budget on Friday, but the outcome of a final vote expected on Nov. 17 remained unclear amid undecided parties and rumours about further resignations or floor-crossings. Parliamentary secretary to the prime minister Kody Blois lays out the Liberals' strategy to keep their government alive. Plus, former Conservative chief of staff David McLaughlin and former Liberal campaign co-chair David Herle discuss how much of a threat the instability in Conservative caucus is to Pierre Poilievre's leadership.

Duration: 00:54:16
Conservatives losing another MP as Jeneroux says he'll resign
Nov 06, 2025

Host David Cochrane breaks the news live on Power & Politics that Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux will resign, with Jeneroux saying he made the decision to focus on his family following the speculation surrounding the Conservative Party over the last 48 hours. The Power Panel and CBC's Rosemary Barton have immediate analysis on whether the loss of two MPs in a week is a growing threat to Pierre Poilievre's leadership. Plus, Defence Minister David McGuinty squares how close the budget's $82 billion for his file will get Canada to the 3.5 per cent of GDP NATO spending target set for 2035.

Duration: 00:54:48
Now 2 MPs short, will the Liberals reach a majority?
Nov 05, 2025

Newly minted Liberal Chris d'Entremont says there are other Conservatives who 'are in the same boat' and could also cross the floor, sending rumours swirling about who could be considering the jump. A fellow Nova Scotian — Justice Minister Sean Fraser — discusses why d'Entremont joined the Liberals, and Conservative housing critic Scott Aitchison dismisses talk of further defections. 

Duration: 01:01:32
As budget reveals $78B deficit, a Conservative joins the Liberals
Nov 04, 2025

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defends his budget that promises to spend another $141 billion in over five years, to shrink the public service by 40,000 jobs and to enable $1 trillion in total investment. Power & Politics brings you the story of a Conservative MP crossing the floor to the Liberals in response to the budget as it broke on Tuesday, including live reaction from Conservative deputy leader Melissa Lantsman. Plus, the NDP interim leader and Bloc Québécois finance critic weigh in on whether they can support this budget to avoid an election. 

Duration: 00:59:20
A big deficit is coming. Will it be what Canada needs?
Nov 03, 2025

On the eve of the Carney government's first federal budget, CBC's Peter Armstrong and Catherine Cullen break down everything we know about what's coming in the document — with one senior Canadian official saying it will include tax changes and tens of billions in cuts. Then, Desjardins Group deputy chief economist Randall Bartlett explains what he'll look for to decide if the sizable deficit the Liberals have signalled will be an investment that pays off. 

Duration: 00:48:11
Trump says Carney apologized, but talks won't resume
Oct 31, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump said Prime Minister Mark Carney apologized over an Ontario ad that Trump cites as his reason for halting trade talks, but says he won't restart negotiations. Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin deflects questions about whether the Liberals are keeping Canada's 2030 climate target, saying 'we always knew they were ambitious.' Plus, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre tells CBC's Rosemary Barton that he'd reverse a Supreme Court ruling striking down mandatory minimum sentences for some child pornography cases. 

Duration: 00:55:08
With budget support unclear, is another election on the way?
Oct 30, 2025

Multiple sources tell CBC News that the risk of triggering another election has the Conservative and NDP caucuses grappling with whether to vote against the Liberal budget, as it remains unclear where the Liberals will secure the three votes they need. NDP MP Heather McPherson and Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer weigh in on how unlikely it is that their caucuses will lend the Liberals their support, and provide no assurance that an election will be avoided. Plus, Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan says unions in the province are organizing toward a general strike in response to...

Duration: 01:01:04
U.S. ambassador blasts Ontario rep with expletive-laced tirade: witnesses
Oct 29, 2025

Multiple witnesses tell CBC News that U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra lashed out at Ontario trade representative David Paterson at an event in Ottawa on Monday, with one witness saying Hoekstra appeared to be upset about Ontario's U.S. ad and could be heard using the F-word. Former minister of foreign affairs John Manley and former U.S. ambassador to Canada Gordon Giffin react. Plus, CBC's Peter Armstrong breaks down why the Bank of Canada delivered another interest rate cut on Wednesday, and why the Federal Reserve did the same in the U.S.

Duration: 00:48:52
Carney asked Ford to take down Reagan tariff ad: Ontario source
Oct 28, 2025

A senior provincial source says Prime Minister Mark Carney saw Ontario's ad 'well in advance' of when it aired in the U.S., but after U.S. President Donald Trump halted trade talks, Carney called Ontario Premier Doug Ford to ask him to take it down. Alberta Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides defends the province's use of the Charter's notwithstanding clause to force striking teachers back to work. Plus, interim NDP Leader Don Davies responds to the Liberal House leader's assertion that they 'don’t have the votes’ to pass next week's federal budget yet. 

Duration: 00:57:41
Trump says he won't meet with Carney 'for a long time'
Oct 27, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump was unable to say when his threat of a 10 per cent increase to tariffs on Canadian goods would become a reality on Monday, but said he wouldn't meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney 'for a long time.' Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu responds, and details a new set of budget announcements aimed at increasing tradespeople and bolstering the economy against U.S. turmoil. Plus, David Frum, who was a speechwriter for former president George W. Bush, evaluates why Trump has had such a strong reaction to the Ontario ad that the president claims is...

Duration: 00:47:47
Weekly Wrap: U.S. trade talks are off again. What now?
Oct 25, 2025

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

Duration: 00:22:29
Trump ends Canadian trade talks — again
Oct 24, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump expanded on his decision to cut off trade talks with Canada on Friday, accusing an Ontario ad of being a bid to 'illegally influence the United States Supreme Court.' Prime Minister’s Council on Canada-U.S. Relations member Jean Charest and former Canadian ambassadors to the U.S. Frank McKenna and Derek Burney weigh in on Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to say Canada 'stands ready' to return to negotiations, instead of making a policy concession as he did to end Trump's last hiatus. 


Duration: 00:51:13
Ottawa shrinks tariff exemption for U.S. cars from Stellantis, GM
Oct 23, 2025

CBC's Ashley Burke joins Power & Politics with breaking news that Ottawa is firing back at Stellantis and General Motors by limiting the number of tariff-free vehicles the automakers can import to sell in Canada. Unifor national president Lana Payne and Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association President Flavio Volpe react. Plus, Justice Minister Sean Fraser explains why he believes the bail reform bill he introduced today can survive a constitutional challenge despite some lawyers arguing it's destined to be struck down.

Duration: 00:48:05
Some Conservative MPs doubt Poilievre’s leadership after RCMP comments
Oct 22, 2025

Radio-Canada's Laurence Martin explains what she heard from five Conservative caucus members who feel Pierre Poilievre is not projecting an image befitting a prime minister following his comments last week that RCMP leadership is 'despicable.' Then, Conservative deputy leader Melissa Lantsman defends Poilievre's denial that he suggested former prime minister Justin Trudeau should go to jail, despite Poilievre saying last week that Trudeau 'would have been criminally charged' if the RCMP didn't cover up for him.

Duration: 00:43:52
CRA giving Canadians long waits, bad info: scathing AG report
Oct 21, 2025

Auditor General Karen Hogan digs into a new report where her office called the Canada Revenue Agency 167 times, with analysts waiting an average of 50 minutes to get an answer to a question — and receiving accurate information only 17 per cent of the time, when asking general questions about individual taxes. CRA Secretary of State Wayne Long responds, saying, 'We're going to do better.' Plus, CBC's Peter Armstrong explains how food prices pulled Canadian inflation up to 2.4 per cent in new price data for September. 

Duration: 00:53:12
What's the cost of better relations with India and China?
Oct 20, 2025

After visiting India and China in a bid to thaw relations last week, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand defends against concerns that the Carney government is brushing past the nations' aggression and interference, arguing that Canada needs 'to be pragmatic about our economic needs.' Plus, CBC's J.P. Tasker looks at new polling that suggests Canadian consensus on immigration is crumbling, and former immigration minister Jason Kenney argues that 'perhaps the single biggest failure' of former prime minister Justin Trudeau's government was turning that consensus 'upside down.'

Duration: 00:49:00
Weekly Wrap: Is Team Canada crumbling under U.S. pressure?
Oct 18, 2025

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

Duration: 00:23:29
Liberal budget will have $617.7M for more border officers
Oct 17, 2025

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced Friday that the Liberals are budgeting $617.7 million over five years to fulfill the campaign promise of 1,000 more Canada Border Services Agency officers. Anandasangaree says the increased staff will help stop illicit goods like fentanyl from crossing the border, but says he still rejects 'the notion that fentanyl is a problem going north to south.' Plus, Power & Politics' party insiders discuss the potential political risks around Pierre Poilievre's controversial comments about RCMP leadership. 

Duration: 00:50:54
Carney vows to crack down on crime with bill to tighten up bail
Oct 16, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney says the Liberals will introduce a new crime bill next week, which will enable consecutive sentences for repeat and violent offenders and put the 'reverse onus' on people accused of certain major crimes to prove they should be released on bail. Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister Rachel Bendayan responds to concerns about making bail too difficult to receive, saying she hears stories from Canadians that 'they don't feel safe' and arguing that 'we need to get serious on crime in this country.' Then, Conservative justice critic Larry Brock makes the Opposition's case that...

Duration: 00:51:50
Ottawa threatens to sue Stellantis for moving Jeep production to U.S.
Oct 15, 2025

Industry Minister Mélanie Joly threatened legal action over automaker Stellantis's plan to move production of the Jeep Compass to the U.S. on Wednesday, saying that Stellantis agreed to maintain its 'full Canadian footprint, including Brampton' when accepting financial supports from Ottawa. Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association president Flavio Volpe argues Ottawa should withhold billions in subsidies for Stellantis's Windsor, Ont., battery plant unless the company resumes vehicle production at its Brampton Assembly, saying 'we shouldn't let them off the hook — Donald Trump isn't the only bully around.' Plus, Newfoundland and Labrador premier-designate Tony Wakeham responds to concerns about his approach...

Duration: 00:51:54
U.S. hikes Canadian lumber tariff to over 45%
Oct 14, 2025

B.C. Premier David Eby demanded that Ottawa support the province's forestry workers on Tuesday, as the U.S. enacted another 10 per cent tariff on Canada's softwood lumber — taking the total levy to just over 45 per cent. New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt tells Power & Politics what she'll be speaking to Industry Minister Mélanie Joly about tonight, as she lays out the impact on her province's economy. Plus, Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi weighs in on how the spat between Eby and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith could hurt his province's hopes for a new oil pipeline. 

Duration: 00:46:17
Weekly Wrap: What did Carney gain from another Trump meeting?
Oct 11, 2025

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

Duration: 00:21:10
Ottawa says Alberta must get B.C.'s support for pipeline proposal
Oct 10, 2025

Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson said Thursday that Alberta will need to 'attract' B.C.'s support if it wants to execute its proposal for an oil pipeline to the West Coast. B.C. Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix argues that B.C. can't support 'a project that doesn't exist.' Plus, CUPW negotiator Jim Gallant says the postal workers' union is moving to rotating strikes that will let delivery resume because 'our fight is not with the public,' but accuses Ottawa of adding 'poison pills' to its contract negotiations with Canada Post.  

Duration: 00:51:58