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.'
Episodes
- Carney doubles down on electricity, vows to double Canada's grid
Mark Carney is expanding Canada's electricity grid, aiming for a doubled capacity by 2050. The government's plan is detailed by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. The episode also features a lawyer…
- It's all coming up Alberta: Separatists, a carbon deal and data breach fallout
An Alberta judge has rejected a separatist petition in favor of First Nations, while sources suggest a finalized energy deal between the province and Ottawa is imminent. Additionally, Elections Alberta has indicated that a significant data…
- Is a Liberal MP waging a war with the Ontario party he hopes to lead?
Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith is appealing a nomination race loss, citing serious irregularities. The episode also covers a separatist leader accused of publishing personal data who is not cooperating with investigators.
- Does Carney's major projects push risk splintering the Liberals?
The federal government is proposing legislative changes to shorten the approval timeline for major projects to one year, facing opposition from environmental activists like Steven Guilbeault. The episode also covers leadership races in Bri…
- Weekly Wrap: Is Alberta pipeline deal ‘days’ away?
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expresses confidence in an upcoming energy agreement after meeting with the prime minister. The Weekly Wrap panel provides analysis of a busy week in Ottawa.
- Reporter Roundtable: Carney's push to build fast
This episode of Reporter Roundtable on Power & Politics examines the Carney government's initiatives to accelerate project approvals and provide funding to industries impacted by U.S. tariffs. Discussions include insights from Robert Fife,…
- A separatist petition and a huge data breach: What's going on in Alberta?
This episode of Power & Politics discusses Alberta's separatist movement, which is linked to a significant data breach impacting nearly three million people. It also covers the federal government's efforts to expedite construction projects…
- Names, numbers, addresses: Millions impacted in Alberta data breach
This episode discusses the Alberta data breach impacting millions, with political questions arising about Premier Danielle Smith's awareness. Additionally, Honda's reported suspension of an EV plant in Ontario is covered.
- What does Carney's new governor general choice mean for Canada?
This episode of Power & Politics discusses Prime Minister Mark Carney's selection of Louise Arbour as governor general and its significance for Canada. Also, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe shares his views on restricting social media for y…
- Ottawa funnels $1.5B more to industries hard-hit by Trump's tariffs
The federal government is providing an additional $1.5 billion in funding to Canadian steel, aluminum, and copper industries impacted by U.S. Section 232 tariffs. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly provides insights on this initiative.
- Weekly Wrap: Are the Liberals abusing their majority power?
This episode of Power & Politics features Laura D'Angelo, Zain Velji, and Michael Solberg discussing the Liberal economic update and controversies regarding an Iranian official and committee visibility. They analyze how these issues might…
- Reporter Roundtable: A 'pathetic' response to Iran visa drama
This episode features a reporter roundtable discussion on the Canadian government's handling of the Iran visa situation. Journalists analyze the sparse explanations provided by the government regarding the revoked visa of a former Iranian…
- Canada greenlights, then blocks Iran official. Ottawa won't say why
Canada granted a former Iranian military commander and current soccer official permission to enter the country, then revoked it upon his arrival, citing privacy concerns. This episode of Power & Politics discusses the incident with Secreta…
- Canada considers privatizing airports. What would that look like?
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon discusses the potential privatization of Canada's airports. The episode also covers the spring economic update and investments in skilled trades, with reaction from Sean Strickland.
- Liberals reveal $66.9B deficit in better-than-expected economic update
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government reveals a $66.9B deficit in its spring economic update. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne discusses Canada’s plan to navigate economic uncertainty, with reactions from Conservative interna…
- CBC News exclusive interview with Prime Minister Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney is interviewed by Adrienne Arsenault on CBC News: The National, discussing U.S. tariff relief. The Power Panel analyzes the interview. Additionally, NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice discusses his departure from federal…
- Weekly Wrap: Federal NDP go down another MP
This episode of Power & Politics discusses NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice's resignation to run for Québec Solidaire. The Weekly Wrap panel also examines the implications for the federal NDP caucus.
- Reporter Roundtable: Who's winning the pregame to Canada-U.S. trade talks?
This episode of Power & Politics features a reporter roundtable discussing the pre-game to Canada-U.S. trade talks. They cover Carney pushing back on U.S. pressure and Poilievre's criticism of the prime minister's negotiation efforts.
- Is the U.S. dictating the terms of trade talks with Canada?
Prime Minister Carney discusses trade issues with the U.S. and American officials hint at action regarding provincial alcohol bans. Erin O'Toole joins Carney's economic advisory team. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announces an inves…
- U.S. demanding 'entry fee' from Canada before trade talks: sources
Sources reveal the U.S. is demanding an 'entry fee' from Canada for trade talks to commence, a move that could derail negotiations. Jean Charest, former Quebec premier, discusses Canada-U.S. economic relations. Additionally, the Liberal pa…
- Carney's got a new U.S. advisory council. Will it make a difference?
Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed a new committee to address Canada-U.S. relations in anticipation of the upcoming CUSMA review. The episode features insights from Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc and discussions from the…
- Canada's ties to the U.S. are now a 'weakness': Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney suggests Canada's close ties to the U.S. have become a weakness. Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson and David Dodge offer their perspectives on the issue.
- Weekly Wrap: How will a Carney majority change Canada?
This episode of Power & Politics discusses Prime Minister Mark Carney's new majority government and the signals he is sending about changes to his governance. Laura D'Angelo, Zain Velji, and Michael Solberg offer their analysis.
- Reporter Roundtable: How do the Conservatives stop losing?
This episode of Reporter Roundtable on Power & Politics features Robert Fife, Mia Rabson, and Joël-Denis Bellavance. They discuss Prime Minister Mark Carney's majority government and the path forward for the Conservatives in opposition.
- A shaky ceasefire begins in Lebanon
This episode discusses the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and its potential for lasting peace, with insights from Jon Allen, former Canadian ambassador to Israel. It also features Michael Kovrig, who argues that Canada's EV deal with China poses…
- Liberals signal they'll expand House power, take committee control
Liberal House leader Steven MacKinnon suggests changes to the House committee structure. Conservative ethics critic Michael Barrett and Liberal whip Mark Gerretsen offer their perspectives. NDP Leader Avi Lewis expresses worries about impl…
- Armed with majority, Carney says 'it's time to get serious'
Prime Minister Mark Carney reflects on his new majority government, emphasizing humility and determination. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defends the government's legitimacy against opposition criticism. Conservative MP Adam…
- Carney clinches majority
This episode of Power & Politics discusses how Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberals achieved a majority government following an election, defections, and byelections. The episode explains the events that led to this outcome.
- How 1, 2 or 3 wins tonight will change how Carney governs
This episode of Power & Politics discusses the impact of upcoming by-election results on the Carney government. It explores how many wins the Liberals need for a majority and the implications for governing and House of Commons committees.
- Weekly Wrap: Has Carney built Frankenstein's majority?
This episode of Power & Politics discusses Prime Minister Mark Carney's majority in the House of Commons. Guests debate if managing a slim majority and a diverse caucus could pose challenges for Carney.
- Reporter Roundtable: Is the newest Liberal a 'hypocrite'?
In this episode of Reporter Roundtable, journalists debate whether a Conservative MP's switch to the Liberal party could be problematic for both parties. They discuss if the MP is acting against her previous statements.
- Carney stands by Gladu's crossing. Are his Liberals still liberal?
Prime Minister Mark Carney discusses former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu joining his caucus, addressing concerns about her past opposition to Liberal policies. Liberal House leader Steven MacKinnon and Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley also share…
- Conservatives lose a 4th MP to Carney. Is Poilievre in trouble?
Former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu crosses the floor to join the Liberals, potentially aiding the Carney government in securing a majority. Liberal Party caucus chair James Maloney addresses Gladu's past views. Additionally, former Canad…
- Trump agrees to last-minute ceasefire, delays threat to destroy Iran
This episode of Power & Politics covers Donald Trump's last-minute ceasefire with Iran. It includes analysis from former Canadian UN ambassador Bob Rae and Canada's former head of mission in Saudi Arabia, Dennis Horak, on the implications…
- Is Trump threatening a war crime with his latest Iran deadline?
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a deadline to Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz. This episode of Power & Politics features former Middle East peace negotiator Aaron David Miller discussing the situation, along with an analysis of…
- Political Pulse: Can the NDP keep up as Carney inches closer to a majority?
This episode of Power & Politics features Greg MacEachern, Mélanie Richer, and Fred DeLorey discussing the current political climate in Canada. They analyze the federal political parties and the Liberal party's movement towards a majority…
- Reporter Roundtable: The least boring byelections ever?
This episode of Power & Politics features the Reporter Roundtable with Joël-Denis Bellavance, Rob Russo, and Aaron Wherry. They discuss the start of voting in byelections and whether the results could still be surprising.
- Gas prices keep rising. Is it time for Ottawa to offer relief?
This episode of Power and Politics discusses rising gas prices, with Conservative transportation critic Dan Albas explaining his party's call to cut gas taxes. Also, Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association president Flavio Volpe discus…
- U.S. reveals an even bigger list of Canada trade complaints
The U.S. has revealed new trade complaints against Canada, including "Buy Canadian" rules and drug pricing. Unifor president Lana Payne also reacts to a report about Stellantis possibly making Chinese electric vehicles in Canada.
- David Suzuki remembers 'my great hero,' NDP giant Stephen Lewis
David Suzuki remembers Stephen Lewis, who recently passed away at 88, highlighting his principles and influence. Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin also discusses emissions requirements for Alberta.
- Will Avi Lewis's leadership revive or break the NDP?
Avi Lewis, the new leader of the federal NDP, discusses his policies and vision for the party on Power & Politics, addressing criticisms from provincial NDP branches. Additionally, Housing Minister Gregor Robertson provides an update on th…
- Weekly Wrap: Carney conquers NATO's 2% target. What now?
Zain Velji, Rachael Segal, and Laura D'Angelo discuss the impact of Canada meeting NATO's two percent GDP spending target on the armed forces and national security. The panel debates whether this milestone significantly improves Canada's s…
- Will Avi Lewis be the NDP's next leader?
Avi Lewis discusses his campaign for the federal NDP leadership as the party considers its future following the 2025 election. The episode also features perspectives from party members regarding the NDP's direction.
- Canada hits 2% defence spending. Is it actually better prepared?
Defence Minister David McGuinty discusses Canada reaching its two per cent of GDP NATO defence spending target and future military objectives. Additionally, B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma advocates for federal age restrictions on social…
- Can an Ottawa-Ontario tax break beat the housing slump?
Ontario Housing Minister Robert Flack discusses new joint federal-provincial tax measures aimed at the housing market. Additionally, NDP leadership candidate Heather McPherson outlines her vision ahead of the party's upcoming convention.
- Is the Alberta-Ottawa pipeline deal already off track?
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Energy Ministry Parliamentary Secretary Corey Hogan discuss the progress of an oil pipeline MOU between Alberta and Ottawa. The Power Panel also addresses Conservative calls for the resignation of Immigra…
- What will investigators look for in the fatal Air Canada collision?
This episode of Power & Politics examines the fatal Air Canada Express runway collision at LaGuardia Airport. It provides the latest details from New York and discusses the investigation process with a former official from the Transportati…
- Weekly Wrap: How close will Canada get to the Iran war?
Zain Velji, Michael Solberg, and Supriya Dwivedi discuss the extent of Ottawa's potential involvement in the Iran conflict and its role in ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. The panel examines the political implications of Cana…
- Trump calls NATO allies 'cowards' over Middle East
Former Conservative leader Erin O'Toole reacts to comments made by Donald Trump regarding NATO allies. Additionally, Jean Charest discusses the CUSMA review process following criticisms from a U.S. trade official.
- Poilievre does Joe Rogan, wishes Trump would 'knock that s--t off'
CBC's Kate McKenna discusses Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's interview with Joe Rogan, covering topics from COVID-19 to U.S. relations. The episode also features Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's comments on Canadian energy projects.