Power & Politics
News & Politics
About
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.' 🎙️ Behind every headline is a decision-maker. Behind this show is you. 🙏 [Support Power & Politics] 🙏
Episodes
- Weekly Wrap: Is Alberta pipeline deal ‘days’ away?
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expresses confidence in reaching an energy agreement following discussions with the prime minister in Ottawa. The Weekly Wrap panel provides analysis on the week's political events.
- Reporter Roundtable: Carney's push to build fast
This episode of Power & Politics features a reporter roundtable with Robert Fife, Mia Rabson, and Joël-Denis Bellavance. They discuss the Carney government's initiatives to accelerate project approvals and provide funding to industries aff…
- A separatist petition and a huge data breach: What's going on in Alberta?
This episode discusses a data breach impacting nearly three million people in Alberta, which is connected to the province's separatist movement. Former premier Jason Kenney shared his concerns about the privacy violation. Additionally, the…
- Names, numbers, addresses: Millions impacted in Alberta data breach
A data breach exposed personal information of nearly three million Albertans, with questions arising about Premier Danielle Smith's awareness of the leak. Additionally, Honda has indefinitely suspended plans for a $15 billion electric vehi…
- What does Carney's new governor general choice mean for Canada?
Power & Politics discusses Mark Carney's selection of Louise Arbour as Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Armed Forces. The episode also covers Saskatchewan's potential legislation to limit social media access for youn…
- Ottawa funnels $1.5B more to industries hard-hit by Trump's tariffs
The Canadian federal government announced $1.5 billion in new funding for industries impacted by U.S. tariffs, with Industry Minister Mélanie Joly providing details. The episode also features discussion on Prime Minister Mark Carney's view…
- Weekly Wrap: Are the Liberals abusing their majority power?
Laura D'Angelo, Zain Velji, and Michael Solberg discuss the Liberal government's approach to selling its economic update, and whether controversies involving an Iranian official's visa and four committees obscured from public view could im…
- Reporter Roundtable: A 'pathetic' response to Iran visa drama
Reporters discuss the Canadian government's visa decision for a former Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander, criticizing the immigration minister's response as a communications failure and a 'pathetic performance'.
- Canada greenlights, then blocks Iran official. Ottawa won't say why
Canada granted and then revoked a permit for a former Iranian military commander and soccer official to enter the country, with officials citing privacy. The episode features discussions with Secretary of State for Sport Adam van Koeverden…
- Canada considers privatizing airports. What would that look like?
Power & Politics discusses the federal government's consideration of privatizing Canadian airports to generate capital. The episode includes insights from Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon and a reaction from Sean Strickland of Canada's…
- Liberals reveal $66.9B deficit in better-than-expected economic update
The spring economic update reveals a $66.9 billion deficit, but indicates a more stable economy. Power & Politics discusses Canada's strategy for navigating global uncertainty with Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne and interview…
- CBC News exclusive interview with Prime Minister Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated he is not seeking a quick deal for U.S. tariff relief in an interview with CBC News. The episode also features discussion from the Power Panel and NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice on his departure from federal p…
- Weekly Wrap: Federal NDP go down another MP
NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice is resigning to run for Québec Solidaire. The Weekly Wrap panel discusses the impact of this departure on the federal New Democratic Party, as their caucus size decreases.
- Reporter Roundtable: Who's winning the pregame to Canada-U.S. trade talks?
A reporter roundtable featuring Robert Fife, Mia Rabson, and Joël-Denis Bellavance discusses the pre-negotiation dynamics of Canada-U.S. trade talks, including criticism from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre regarding the prime ministe…
- Is the U.S. dictating the terms of trade talks with Canada?
Power & Politics discusses trade issues between Canada and the U.S., including potential U.S. action over provincial alcohol bans. The episode also covers Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand's statement on Israel investigating the death o…
- U.S. demanding 'entry fee' from Canada before trade talks: sources
Sources suggest the U.S. is demanding an 'entry fee' for Canada to participate in trade talks, potentially derailing negotiations. The episode also covers the Liberal party's move to control House committees and the opposition's reaction,…
- Carney's got a new U.S. advisory council. Will it make a difference?
Prime Minister Mark Carney has established a new committee focused on Canada-U.S. relations, ahead of the CUSMA review. The episode discusses this development with Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and the Power Panel, also featuring premiers…
- Canada's ties to the U.S. are now a 'weakness': Carney
Mark Carney asserts that Canada's close relationship with the U.S. is a weakness that requires correction. The episode also features insights from R.J. Simpson on the topic and David Dodge on the economic impacts of war in Iran.
- Weekly Wrap: How will a Carney majority change Canada?
Prime Minister Mark Carney's approach to governing after achieving a majority government is discussed. Analysts Laura D'Angelo, Zain Velji, and Michael Solberg offer their perspectives on the signals being sent.
- Reporter Roundtable: How do the Conservatives stop losing?
Robert Fife, Mia Rabson, and Joël-Denis Bellavance discuss strategies for the Conservative party to move beyond leadership issues and prepare for future governance, alongside an analysis of Prime Minister Mark Carney's challenges.
- A shaky ceasefire begins in Lebanon
The episode examines the fragile Israel–Lebanon ceasefire, with insights from former ambassador Jon Allen on lingering uncertainties. It also features Michael Kovrig's perspective on the national security implications of Canada's EV tariff…
- Liberals signal they'll expand House power, take committee control
The Liberal government is considering changes to House committee structures to reflect Parliament's composition, potentially shifting power away from the opposition. Conservative and Liberal MPs weigh in, alongside concerns from the NDP le…
- Armed with majority, Carney says 'it's time to get serious'
Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed his government's new majority, emphasizing a focus on serious work and criticizing 'performative' opposition debates. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defended the use of floor-crossers, and…
- Carney clinches majority
Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal party has won a majority government following a recent election and a series of defections, culminating in a night of byelections that solidified their position.
- How 1, 2 or 3 wins tonight will change how Carney governs
The Power Panel discusses how victory in three byelections will affect the Carney government's governance and its reliance on the Speaker. Former parliamentary counsel Steven Chaplin notes the lack of precedent and explains the need for ru…
- Weekly Wrap: Has Carney built Frankenstein's majority?
This episode of Power & Politics discusses whether Prime Minister Mark Carney's path to a Liberal majority, by accepting members from other parties, could prove to be a difficult challenge.
- Reporter Roundtable: Is the newest Liberal a 'hypocrite'?
A reporter roundtable featuring Robert Fife, Mia Rabson, and Joël-Denis Bellavance debates the potential hypocrisy of a Conservative MP joining the Liberals, with Robert Fife highlighting potential contradictions with the MP's stated belie…
- Carney stands by Gladu's crossing. Are his Liberals still liberal?
Prime Minister Mark Carney defends the decision to accept former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu into the Liberal caucus, stating that crossers offer valuable perspectives and expertise. Liberal House leader Steven MacKinnon emphasized that…
- Conservatives lose a 4th MP to Carney. Is Poilievre in trouble?
Marilyn Gladu has moved from the Conservatives to the Liberals, potentially affecting the Carney government's majority. James Maloney addresses Gladu's past statements and the 'bigger tent' approach. Tom Lawson criticizes the US President'…
- Trump agrees to last-minute ceasefire, delays threat to destroy Iran
Donald Trump agreed to a two-week, double-sided ceasefire with Iran, delaying his threat to destroy the country. Guests Bob Rae and Dennis Horak discuss the announcement, with Rae calling Trump's threat 'genocidal.'
- Is Trump threatening a war crime with his latest Iran deadline?
The episode discusses U.S. President Donald Trump's deadline for Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the potential consequences, featuring insights from Aaron David Miller. It also covers federal byelections and their impact on the gov…
- Political Pulse: Can the NDP keep up as Carney inches closer to a majority?
Political analysts Greg MacEachern, Mélanie Richer and Fred DeLorey discuss the strategic positions of the three main federal political parties in Canada.
- Reporter Roundtable: The least boring byelections ever?
On the Reporter Roundtable, journalists Joël-Denis Bellavance, Rob Russo, and Aaron Wherry discuss the ongoing byelections and their potential impact on a Liberal majority.
- Gas prices keep rising. Is it time for Ottawa to offer relief?
Rising gas prices and calls for tax relief are discussed, alongside concerns about assembling Chinese EVs in Brampton and its potential impact on the regional automotive sector.
- U.S. reveals an even bigger list of Canada trade complaints
The U.S. Trade Representative's annual report details new trade complaints against Canada, such as 'Buy Canadian' policies, drug pricing, and forced labour issues. Unifor president Lana Payne comments on Stellantis potentially manufacturin…
- David Suzuki remembers 'my great hero,' NDP giant Stephen Lewis
David Suzuki reflects on his friend, humanitarian Stephen Lewis, who died at 88, highlighting Lewis's dedication to principles. Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin addresses emissions requirements for Alberta.
- Will Avi Lewis's leadership revive or break the NDP?
Avi Lewis addresses his new role as federal NDP leader, defending his policies amid criticism on past comments and fossil fuels. Housing Minister Gregor Robertson also discusses housing market challenges.
- Weekly Wrap: Carney conquers NATO's 2% target. What now?
Canada has met NATO's 2% GDP spending target. A discussion with Zain Velji, Rachael Segal, and Laura D'Angelo explores the implications for the armed forces and national security.
- Will Avi Lewis be the NDP's next leader?
Avi Lewis, a front-runner for the federal NDP leadership, speaks with Power & Politics. Party members also discuss the future of the NDP following their 2025 election results.
- Canada hits 2% defence spending. Is it actually better prepared?
Canada has reached its 2% defence spending target for NATO. Defence Minister David McGuinty outlines plans for future spending and military support, while B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma urges federal legislation for social media age res…
- Can an Ottawa-Ontario tax break beat the housing slump?
Ottawa and Ontario are collaborating to remove HST on new homes under $1 million and provide rebates up to $130,000 for new homes up to $1.5 million to address a housing slump. Ontario Housing Minister Robert Flack will discuss the potenti…
- Is the Alberta-Ottawa pipeline deal already off track?
Alberta and Ottawa may miss an April 1 deadline related to their MOU on an oil pipeline, according to Premier Danielle Smith, amid global energy shocks. However, Parliamentary Secretary Corey Hogan indicates progress on other policy aspect…
- What will investigators look for in the fatal Air Canada collision?
Investigators are examining the fatal Air Canada Express runway collision at LaGuardia, which killed two pilots and highlighted air traffic control safety issues. A former Transportation Safety Board of Canada investigator discusses potent…
- Weekly Wrap: How close will Canada get to the Iran war?
Zain Velji, Michael Solberg, and Supriya Dwivedi discuss the extent of potential Canadian involvement in the Iran conflict and the recent joint statement regarding the Strait of Hormuz. The panel debates the political implications of Ottaw…
- Trump calls NATO allies 'cowards' over Middle East
President Trump criticized NATO allies as 'cowards' for their lack of involvement in the Strait of Hormuz. Former Conservative leader Erin O'Toole and Jean Charest, a member of the Prime Minister’s Council on Canada-U.S. Relations, provide…
- Poilievre does Joe Rogan, wishes Trump would 'knock that s--t off'
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre discusses his interview with Joe Rogan and comments on U.S. relations with CBC's Kate McKenna. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe also talks about the pace of energy project approvals.
- Iran war throws Canada's economy into the unknown
The Bank of Canada maintained its key interest rate, citing an uncertain economic outlook influenced by the Iran war, U.S. trade issues, and inflation. Experts analyzed the potential economic damage and recent polling trends.
- 'This is not our war': Ottawa staying out of Iran fight
Defence Minister David McGuinty reiterated Canada's non-involvement in the Iran war offensive, stating they were not consulted and will not be active. Separately, Éric Grenier analyzes the Liberal Party's polling success and its potential…
- Trump calls for help in the Middle East. Allies aren't answering
President Trump is requesting international assistance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but has been met with refusal from both allies and adversaries. Andrew Leslie describes the White House
- Weekly Wrap: The NDP gets even smaller. Is it on the brink?
The NDP lost a member to the Carney Liberals during new leadership voting, following significant caucus reductions. Experts Zain Velji, Michael Solberg, and Carlene Variyan analyze the potential future of the party and the consequences of…