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Democracy is a conversation, and we're here for it. Every Saturday, Catherine Cullen makes politics make sense, taking you to Parliament Hill and across Canada for in-depth interviews, documentaries, and analysis of the week’s news — from across the political spectrum.

The “dumb” tariffs are on. The federal government has responded — but with Prime Minister Trudeau about to step down and a new Liberal leader being crowned on the weekend, a federal election could be mere days later. So what does all this mean for how people will vote and the parties’ campaign strategy? Is Carney becoming the popular anti-tariff choice? Or will Poilievre hold onto his lead in the polls? On this new, weekly election-focused podcast, three veteran political reporters — Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault — take a deep dive into the disruption.

Once again, Canada is staring down the barrel of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs on almost all Canadian goods. After a month-long pause, the tariffs are slated to go into effect on March 4 — as Trump continues to claim fentanyl and illegal immigrants are pouring into his country from Canada.

In a special episode of The House, host Catherine Cullen walks Washington’s corridors of power with Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman as she tries to save the Canadian economy from Trump’s punishing tariffs. Canada’s new fentanyl czar is also in D.C. for critical meetings, and offers a glimpse into his closed-door conversations with American officials. Plus: the show brings you inside an event designed to woo Capitol Hill staffers as Canadian consuls general discuss how their pleas are resonating with Americans. Then, a Republican congressman and a Democratic senator react to Canada’s diplomatic efforts as the tariff deadline inches ever closer. 

This episode features the voices of:

• Kirsten Hillman, Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S.
• Susan Harper, Canada’s consul general based in Dallas
• Colin Bird, Canada’s consul general based in Detroit
• Daniel Issa, California Republican congressman
• Kevin Brosseau, Canada’s ‘Fentanyl Czar’
• Amy Klobuchar, Democratic Senator from Minnesota
• Jonathan Martin, politics bureau chief at Politico
• Byron Donalds, Florida Republican congressman

It ended with a shocking cabinet resignation — but 2024 was packed with plenty more political ups and downs. How many headlines do you remember? Listen along and test your smarts as host Catherine Cullen quizzes three keen Parliament Hill watchers who battle it out in The House's annual showdown, featuring Brian Platt of Bloomberg News, Nojoud Al Mallees of The Canadian Press, J.P. Tasker from CBC’s Parliamentary Bureau — and a very special American media guest.

This week in politics has been so massive, one MP’s stunned response summed it up: “WTF?” In the span of five days, the finance minister resigned; a growing list of Liberal MPs called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to quit; the federal cabinet got shuffled; NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh vowed to bring down the government; and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre wrote to the Governor General to ask her to reconvene Parliament.

On today’s pod, a longtime Liberal MP calls for Trudeau to go. A minister explains why he thinks Trudeau should stay. Then, two columnists dissect whether Trudeau — and the country — can survive the turmoil. 

Finally, as Donald Trump and his supporters taunt Canada about becoming the 51st state, Catherine Cullen sits down with the departing American ambassador to Canada to discuss whether Canadians need to loosen up — or whether we deserve a little more respect.

This episode features the voices of:

• Rob Oliphant, Liberal MP for Don Valley West
• Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
• Shannon Proudfoot, columnist for The Globe and Mail
• Paul Wells, author and podcaster
• David Cohen, U.S. ambassador to Canada

Ontario premier Doug Ford made a splash this week when he suggested his province could withhold energy exports to the United States if president-elect Donald Trump slaps steep tariffs on Canadian goods. Is Ontario gearing up for a trade war with the U.S? Ontario’s energy minister explains how far the province is willing to go on the issue.

Then, the CEO of Abacus Data joins the program to discuss his new poll that shows Trump is more popular in Canada than Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and what it means for Trudeau’s tariff negotiations with the Trump administration.

Plus, with days to go until Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland presents her fall economic update, two economists debate the deficit, which fiscal anchors matter the most and what Canada should do about Trump’s concerns on trade.

Finally, the Liberals have tightened rules around the temporary foreign worker program, but why is it so susceptible to abuse? The House does a deep dive into the program to understand the problems and benefits for businesses and workers.

This episode features the voices of: 

• Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Energy
• David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data
• Armine Yalnizyan, economist and Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers
• Goldy Hyder, president of the Business Council of Canada
• Catherine Connelly, professor of human resources and management at McMaster University
• Dan Kelly, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is calling for interparty unity in the face of Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on Canadian goods. But it didn’t take long for the Liberal-Conservative divisions to appear. So is it still realistic to talk about Team Canada? Two Ottawa bureau chiefs weigh in on Canada’s attempt to show a united front against the incoming U.S. president.

Next, Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly joins Catherine Cullen to discuss Canada’s new Arctic foreign policy, the crisis in the Middle East and whether there’s a way to stop Trump’s tariff threat before the president-elect takes office in January.

Then, representatives and experts of Canadian universities and colleges explain how the federal government’s dramatic cut in international student visas will affect their institutions, including whether they need to shave programs. Minister of Immigration Marc Miller and Ontario Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy also share their thoughts on who’s to blame for the funding crisis facing Canadian post-secondary institutions.

This episode features the voices of:

• Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto Star
• Stuart Thomson, parliamentary bureau chief for the National Post
• Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Meti Basiri, CEO and co-founder of ApplyBoard
• Alan Shepard, president of Western University
• Pari Johnston, president and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada
• Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration
• Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario Minister of Finance

First up, Trudeau makes a surprise visit to see Donald Trump the same week the president-elect promised to slam Canada with 25% tariffs on all goods. Then, Canada’s former ambassador to the U.S. discusses whether the threat is real, and what Canada should do about it. 

Next, it’s a building that very few Canadians ever get to go inside. The Immigration Holding Centre in Toronto detains migrants who are either considered a flight risk, a danger to the public, or can’t be identified. The House gets an exclusive tour of this centre to understand the conditions they face and how their fates are determined. 

Also, an immigration lawyer shares his concerns with Canada’s deportation process; and a top Canadian border official discusses Canada’s approach to deportation and whether his agency is prepared for Trump’s plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants in the United States.

This episode features the voices of:

• Alexander Panetta, CBC Washington correspondent
• David MacNaughton, former Canadian ambassador to the United States
• Sajjad Bhatti, acting director of immigration enforcement operations division at the Canada Border Services Agency for the GTA
• Minley Lloyd, acting assistant director of immigration enforcement operations division at the Canada Border Services Agency for the GTA
• Jared Will, immigration and refugee lawyer
• Aaron McCrorie, vice-president of intelligence and enforcement at the Canada Border Services Agency

In one corner: Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who has for years pledged to defund Canada’s public broadcaster. In the other: the current Liberal government, which after months of delay has unveiled their plan for CBC — one that overhauls its mandate but also calls for increased funding. Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge joins The House to discuss her pitch, as host Catherine Cullen asks why it’s arriving in the final weeks of the Trudeau government.

Plus, as Liberal leadership contestants gear up for their big debate showdown in Montreal next week, the Conservatives are emphasizing a “Canada First” message as they shake up their pitch to Canadians. Two Parliamentary bureau chiefs weigh in on the political strategies at play.

Finally: with the threat of U.S. tariffs still on the horizon, will ripple effects on the economy exacerbate Canada’s housing crisis? The House visits a new development site and speaks to the CEO of Canada’s largest private home building company. Then, the federal housing minister discusses what can be done as the clock winds down on the next tariff deadline.

This episode features the voices of:

• Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage
• Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto Star
• Stuart Thomson, Parliamentary bureau chief for the National Post
• Brad Carr, CEO of Mattamy Homes Canada
• Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing

World leaders are gathering in Germany this weekend to discuss threats to international security, including Russia’s war on Ukraine. But for some countries — Canada included — the latest threat is coming from U.S. President Donald Trump. CBC’s defence correspondent Murray Brewster guest hosts The House to look at international crises unfolding in real time.

We start with Oleksandra Matviichuk — head of the Center for Civil Liberties, which was awarded the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize — who shares her reaction to Donald Trump’s conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin about ending the war in Ukraine.

Then, as Trump continues to taunt Canada about not being a “viable” country, The House asks: where are our allies? Former NATO representatives, a former British Conservative MP and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s former national security advisor discuss whether Canada’s friends will stand up to the U.S. president.

Plus, one man definitely knows what it's like to be under Trump’s microscope — and that’s former Illinois Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger, who voted to impeach Trump after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He joins the program to share his advice for Canada on tackling Trump.

Finally, Canada’s five living former prime ministers have come together to encourage Canadians to rally behind the flag this weekend — but there was a time when the great flag debate was among the most divisive Parliament has seen. House producer Emma Godmere takes a trip back into the archives.

This episode features the voices of:

• Oleksandra Matviichuk, head of the Centre for Civil Liberties
• Sveinn Helgason, former strategic communications officer at NATO Headquarters
• Fabrice Pothier, CEO of Rasmussen Global
• Andrew Percy, former MP and UK trade envoy to Canada
• Vincent Rigby, former national security and intelligence advisor to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
• Adam Kinzinger, former Illinois Republican congressman
• Emma Godmere, producer for CBC’s The House

Canada got a temporary reprieve from Donald Trump’s tariffs, but the fight is far from over — and may be more existential than we thought. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau now says the U.S. president’s threat to turn Canada into the 51st state ‘is a real thing.’

Public Safety Minister David McGuinty, joins The House to discuss if Trump is actually a threat to Canadian sovereignty and whether Canada’s new border measures — including a “fentanyl czar” — are enough to appease Trump.

Then, with all the chaos coming out of the United States right now, is there even a playbook for Canadian leaders to follow anymore? How should political parties adjust as Parliament remains prorogued? Two former key staffers weigh in on how politicians can respond to Washington whiplash.

Plus, Trump’s tariff threats are getting Canadians officials to reexamine Canada’s economy, including whether to revive discussions on building a west-east oil pipeline. A CBC provincial affairs reporter in New Brunswick explains the history of the failed Energy East pipeline and whether it could be brought back to life.

Finally, world leaders will gather in France next week to discuss taking action on risks associated with AI — including the threat of disinformation. A Finnish scholar stops by the studio to share his experience monitoring and combatting disinformation next door to Russia.

This episode features the voices of:

• David McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety
• Supt. Marc Cochlin, CEO of Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams
• Marci Surkes, former policy director for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
• Garry Keller, former chief of staff to Rona Ambrose
• Jacques Poitras, provincial affairs reporter for CBC New Brunswick
• Pekka Kallioniemi, Finnish disinformation scholar and author of “Vatnik Soup”

We’ve been waiting weeks for this, and even now — we’re still not exactly sure what to expect. But today, we may finally see U.S. President Donald Trump level punishing tariffs on Canada. The White House has told reporters tariffs are happening this weekend, and Trump himself has said there’s nothing Canada can do to avoid them. 

One of CBC’s foreign correspondents in Washington joins the program to unpack the details from the White House. We then hear from a Canada-U.S. expert about what’s in store for both countries, and small businesses from both sides of the border share how they’re bracing for impact.

Plus, the final report from the public inquiry into foreign interference says there are no traitors in Parliament, but there are still concerns about threats to Canada’s democracy. A national security expert sifts through the findings and an NDP MP details the questions she is left with.

Finally, some Liberal leadership candidates are trotting out policy proposals while others are dropping out or being disqualified altogether. Two Hill watchers explain the latest in the contest.

This episode features the voices of:

• Katie Simpson, CBC News
• Laura Dawson, Executive Director of the Canada-U.S. Future Borders Coalition
• Maggie Ori, Frankor Hydraulics
• Bill Butcher, Port City Brewing Company
• Wesley Wark, senior fellow with the Centre for International Governance Innovation 
• Jenny Kwan, NDP MP for Vancouver East
• Stuart Thomson, Parliamentary bureau chief for the National Post
• Stephanie Levitz, senior politics reporter for The Globe and Mail

Time's up for anyone mulling a bid to lead the Liberal Party. With the deadline to enter behind them, candidates have just a few days left to sign up new members, and a little over a month to drum up support. One of the frontrunners joins The House in studio: former finance minister Chrystia Freeland sits down with host Catherine Cullen to make her case for running the country

Then: Ontario Premier Doug Ford has confirmed he’ll call a snap election next week and send Ontarians to the polls at the end of February. The Toronto Star’s Queen’s Park bureau chief discusses whether voters will reward Ford, or if they’ll be turned off by the timing.

After that, we take a close look at an ongoing economic headache that doesn't involve Donald Trump: trade between provinces. Premiers hope that breaking through interprovincial barriers can in fact better protect against Trump's tariffs. But experts and former officials say getting rid of those barriers is a tall order — and there hasn’t been much success in the past.

Finally, as several Liberal leadership candidates distance themselves from the carbon tax, and as Donald Trump continues to threaten Canada's economy, do the Conservatives need to shift their campaign focus? Two strategists weigh in on how their party is reacting to recent events.

This episode features the voices of:

• Chrystia Freeland, Liberal leadership candidate
• Robert Benzie, Queen’s Park bureau chief for the Toronto Star
• Philippe Couillard, former Quebec premier
• Perrin Beatty, former federal cabinet minister
• Carlo Dade, director of trade infrastructure at the Canada West Foundation
• Chad Rogers, Conservative strategist
• Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist

Donald Trump is headed back to the White House on Monday, meaning his tariff threats could become a reality and wreak havoc on the Canadian economy. So what’s Canada’s opening move if Trump charges forward? Host Catherine Cullen checks in with premiers at their important meeting in Ottawa this week to strategize a response, but not everyone is on the same page. Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. joins the show to discuss the federal government’s plan, and an economics professor explains which provinces are the most at risk.

Next, an author and staff writer for The Atlantic explains why, of all the policies Trump has flirted with over the years, the incoming president is so wedded to the idea of tariffs and how Canada should prepare itself for a possible trade war.

Finally, as more candidates step up or step back from the Liberal leadership race, two Parliament Hill watchers break down the contest so far and the questions the candidates will need to address.

This episode features the voices of:

• Ranj Pillai, Premier of Yukon
• Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan
• Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba
• Kirsten Hillman, Canada’s ambassador to the United States.
• Trevor Tombe, economics professor at the University of Calgary
• David Frum, staff writer with The Atlantic
• Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto Star
• Christopher Nardi, parliamentary reporter for the National Post

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday he will step down from his job once the Liberals find someone to replace him. Now, the leadership race is on, with all sorts of politicians in the Liberal caucus and beyond feeling out whether they’ve got a shot to succeed Trudeau.

The backdrop to all of this is U.S. president-elect Donald Trump claiming he’ll use economic force to absorb Canada as a new American state. On today’s episode, a top leadership contender discusses why she’s considering a leadership bid.

Then, a White House correspondent for the New York Times explains why China and Russia are watching the brewing fight between Canada and the United States and shares his thoughts on how Canadian officials can respond to Trump’s ongoing threats.

Finally, Trudeau’s planned resignation will cap off a long tenure that transformed Canada on several fronts. How big were those transformations? Catherine Cullen speaks to experts and analysts from several areas about Trudeau’s legacy and whether his policies will outlast his time in office.

This episode features the voices of:

• Christy Clark, former B.C. premier
• David E. Sanger, New York Times correspondent and author of New Cold Wars: China's Rise, Russia's Invasion, and America's Struggle to Defend the West
• Paul McCarthy, President of the Cannabis Council of Canada
• Perry Bellegarde, former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations
• Lisa Young, political science professor at the University of Calgary
• Sahir Khan, vice-president of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy at the University of Ottawa
• Catherine Abreu, director of the International Climate Politics Hub
• Thomas Juneau, former analyst at the Department of National Defence
• Mireille Paquet, director of the Institute for Research on Migration and Society at Concordia University
• Nicole Myers, criminologist at Queen’s University

This week, The House brings you some of the most compelling interviews from our coverage of immigration issues in Canada — from ministers who’ve overseen major policy changes to experts who say Ottawa’s recent clampdown will shake up the Canadian economy and post-secondary institutions. Plus, rare access to Toronto’s immigration holding centre, where migrants are locked up while waiting to hear if they’ll be deported.

This episode features the voices of: 

• Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute
• Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration
• Jason Kenney, former Conservative immigration minister
• Dan Kelly, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business
• Catherine Connelly, McMaster University professor
• Meti Basiri, CEO and co-founder of ApplyBoard
• Pari Johnston, president and CEO of Colleges and Institutes Canada
• Sajjad Bhatti, Canada Border Services Agency
• Minley Lloyd, Canada Border Services Agency

Mark Carney won the Liberal leadership as polls for the party were surging. But will the momentum last? Or will voters revisit feelings of being fed-up with the decade-old government? On this episode of the election weekly House Party, Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault dig into the differences between Mark Carney and outgoing prime minister Justin Trudeau, and whether the change is enough to win an election.

Canada’s trade battle with the United States is officially underway. But since it kicked off on Tuesday, there have been near-constant twists and turns as U.S. President Donald Trump switches up his motives, his tariffs and his exemptions for Canadian trade. 

So how big a hit is Canada’s economy taking in this fight? Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand joins the program to discuss the federal government’s response and her work dismantling interprovincial trade barriers. Then, business owners share how they’re adjusting to the shifting economic climate. Plus the cross-border — and cross-party — married couple on how these tense times are playing out in their household.

Also, the Liberals will crown their new leader this Sunday after a six-week sprint. But with Trump’s tariffs looming large, what does the road look like for the winner? Two political watchers lay out what to keep an eye on as the leadership contest concludes and Canada’s next prime minister takes office.

Finally, CBC’s defence correspondent returns from Latvia, where Canadians were taking part in a military exercise. He describes what the mood is like in the small Baltic state and what’s keeping military commanders up at night.  

This episode features the voices of:

• Anita Anand, Minister of Internal Trade
• Bill Butcher, Port City Brewing Company
• Maggie Ori, Frankor Hydraulics
• Melissa & Conrad Muhly
• Shannon Proudfoot, columnist for The Globe and Mail
• Paul Wells, author and podcaster
• Murray Brewster, CBC’s defence correspondent

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is catching heat for what she said to Americans about Canada's federal election. In a resurfaced March interview with right-wing media outlet Breitbart, Smith suggested the U.S. pause tariffs to avoid hurting Canadian Conservatives’ electoral chances. She also said Pierre Poilievre is the best leader for Canada because he’s more “in sync” with U.S. President Donald Trump. 

Today on House Party, journalists Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault dig into the differences between Poilievre and Trump, their style, their policies — and why the Conservative candidate needs to straddle a wide swath of beliefs across the political right, if he wants to be elected Prime Minister.

We’ve waited a long time for this. On Sunday, Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to ask the Governor General to dissolve Parliament and call a federal election — thrusting the parties into what is certain to be a dynamic, historic campaign. For starters, let’s get with you up to speed with a starter guide to campaign 2025, courtesy of CBC’s chief political correspondent Rosemary Barton.

Then, Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer joins the show to discuss his party’s response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats and his party’s promise to cut the industrial carbon tax.

Next, host Catherine Cullen stops by the NDP campaign headquarters in Ottawa to check in with Anne McGrath — senior adviser to leader Jagmeet Singh — about the party’s outlook heading into the campaign.

Plus, the director of the Media Ecosystem Observatory explains what worries him about the information voters are getting online this election — and how you can make sure you don’t get duped.

Finally, as political polls go into overdrive, two analysts dissect how seat projections and party popularity numbers actually work.

This episode features the voices of:

• Rosemary Barton, CBC’s chief political correspondent
• Andrew Scheer, Conservative House leader
• Anne McGrath, senior advisor to NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh
• Aengus Bridgman, director of the Media Ecosystem Observatory
• Philippe Fournier, editor-in-chief of 338Canada
• Éric Grenier, author and publisher of thewrit.ca

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was sworn in Friday, and by Sunday night was on a plane to meet the leaders of France & the U.K.. It was a stark contrast to Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre & NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who both stayed closer to home, unveiling platform promises in smaller cities across Canada.  With an election call imminent, which strategy was smarter? And what did Carney’s overseas trip accomplish? Catherine Cullen, Daniel Thibeault and Jason Markusoff pick apart the election strategy behind the visit.

It’s official: Canada has a new prime minister. Former central banker Mark Carney has been sworn in as Canada’s new leader and will immediately take on the challenge of U.S. President Donald Trump and his tariffs. To do so, he’s got a new, slimmed-down cabinet. Housing Minister Nathaniel Erskine-Smith joins the show to discuss the new crew, and Carney’s move to scrap the consumer carbon tax. Then, a panel of party strategists digs deeper into Carney’s road ahead.

Plus, Carney could be Canada’s shortest-serving prime minister ever, depending on how the next election unfolds. Historian J.D.M. Stewart lays out how long Carney needs to hold on before he crosses the “Tupper line” and looks back at what other short-timers have accomplished in office.

Finally, in a Canadian exclusive interview, Catherine Cullen talks to U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy about Trump’s attacks on Canadian sovereignty and why the British response has comparatively muted.

This episode features the voices of:

• Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing
• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Shakir Chambers, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• J.D.M. Stewart, historian and author of Being Prime Minister
• David Lammy, U.K. Foreign Secretary

If votes were based on social media stats, the NDP’s Jagmeet Singh would be on top with his latest “get ready with me” TikTok – racking up nearly 5 million views. But when it comes to polling, something is lost in translation, with Liberals and Conservatives pulling way ahead in securing support from the under-40 voters. So how are the parties targeting these voters, and who is doing the best job of campaigning on what matters to Gen Z and Millennials? “Elder millennials” Jason Markusoff and Catherine Cullen, and Gen X-er Daniel Thibeault, try not to sound too old as they analyze the strategies of Singh, Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre.

There’s been no shortage of drama one week into this sprint election campaign, which is already affected by U.S. President Donald Trump and his tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump spoke with each other for the first time ever, the day after Carney said Canada's old economic and military relationship with the U.S. is “over.” 

Goldy Hyder, CEO of the Business Council of Canada, explains the impact of Trump’s tariffs and the bigger economic risk of retaliatory tariffs that could drop next week. Then, Liberal candidate Marc Miller discusses how his party is prepared for the intensifying Canada-U.S. trade war.

Then, as federal party leaders fan out across Canada, CBC reporters on the road send us postcards from the campaign trail — with analysis on the Liberal, Conservative, NDP and Bloc Québécois campaigns so far.

After that, party strategists explore the biggest takeaways from the first week of the campaign and what they want their team to do next.

Finally, The House hears from a CBC Manitoba provincial affairs reporter about the tight NDP-Conservative battle in the Winnipeg riding of Elmwood-Transcona, where strategic voting is coming up at the doorstep.

This episode features the voices of:

• Goldy Hyder, president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada
• Marc Miller, Liberal candidate for Ville-Marie—Le Sud-Ouest—Île-des-Sœurs
• John Paul Tasker, CBC reporter following the Conservatives
• Tom Parry, CBC reporter following the Liberals
• Marina von Stackelberg, CBC reporter following the NDP
• Raffy Boudjikanian, CBC reporter following the Bloc Québécois
• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• Bartley Kives, CBC Manitoba senior reporter

For Canadian political nerds, election debates are like the Stanley Cup finals - the one chance to see leaders from all the major parties face off in real time, and maybe even land a few blows against their opponents. But how much power do these debates have to actually change how people vote? In the lead up to the French and English federal leaders’ debates this week, hosts Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault unpack the debate moments that make a difference, and the strategy the parties are prepping.

NOTE: This episode was recorded on Tuesday, April 15, and contains a reference to the Green Party participating in the debates. On the morning of Wednesday, April 16, the party leader's invitation to the debates was rescinded by the Leaders' Debates Commission.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs are spurring renewed interest in Canada for oil and gas development and a possible national energy corridor — with the Liberals and Conservatives promising action. Are these pledges realistic? And what about climate change? Host Catherine Cullen talks to a pollster, a political scientist and an oil market researcher about pipeline politics.

Then, Kitchener Centre Green candidate Mike Morrice joins the program to discuss how big a challenge his party is facing this election if more Canadians support the prospect of pipelines.

Next, as the federal election campaign crosses the halfway point, CBC reporters on the road send us postcards from the campaign trail — with analysis on the Liberal, Conservative and NDP campaigns so far.

After that, party strategists discuss the hot topics of this week of the campaign, including Carney returning to Ottawa yet again as prime minister, Poilievre boasting about crowd sizes and what they’re expecting from the leaders’ debates next week.

Finally, The House’s Emma Godmere breaks down the closely-watched race in Châteauguay-Les Jardins-de-Napierville, where a Bloc Quebecois incumbent is facing off against a Liberal star candidate and longtime gun control advocate in a race that’s all about ground game versus party pull.

This episode features the voices of:

• Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute
• Sarah E. Sharma, political science professor at the University of Ottawa
• Rory Johnston founder of Commodity Context
• Mike Morrice, Green Party candidate for Kitchener Centre
• Marina von Stackelberg, CBC reporter following the Conservative campaign
• Karina Roman, CBC reporter following the Liberal campaign
• Ashley Burke, CBC reporter following the NDP campaign
• Brian Clow, Liberal strategist
• Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist

The West wants out, Quebec wants in, and Canadian unity turned into a campaign issue this week after former Reform Party and opposition leader Preston Manning claimed increasing numbers of Westerners – particularly Albertans – may see secession as the only option if the Liberals win. Yet in Quebec, Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-Francois Blanchet took the opposite tack, downplaying separatist sentiment and arguing Canada needs to be united in its response to Donald Trump’s tariffs. So is separatism REALLY a ballot box issue this time around? Catherine Cullen in Ottawa, Jason Markusoff in Calgary and Daniel Thibeault in Montreal try to unite their 3 solitudes with an answer.

An elder statesman to many Conservatives is warning the country: a Liberal victory could fuel western secession. What’s the appetite for that message? Former Reform Party leader Preston Manning joins The House to explain why Canadian unity is on the ballot.

Next, as union leaders say more pain from U.S. tariffs is likely around the corner, NDP candidate for Hamilton Centre Matthew Green shares his party’s vision for a path forward. 

Then, CBC’s Jacques Poitras profiles the riding of Saint John-Kennebecasis in New Brunswick where tariffs and party drama play into a Liberal-Conservative tug-of-war.

Plus, our panel of political strategists discuss the Liberal and Conservatives candidates dropped by their parties this week and how the campaigns should try and meet the moment on Trump’s tariffs.

Finally, CBC producer Chris Rands takes the aux cord and walks through a playlist of pump-up songs party leaders keep on repeat at rallies and campaign stops this election.

This episode features the voices of:

• Preston Manning, former Reform Party leader
• Matthew Green, NDP candidate for Hamilton Centre
• Jacques Poitras, provincial affairs reporter for CBC New Brunswick
• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• Chris Rands, producer for CBC’s parliamentary bureau

A special Sunday offer from our friends at World Report: As Canadians prepare to head to the ballot box, the integrity of this vote matters more than ever. From foreign agents to fake influencers... how serious are the risks to Canada's democracy? And what are officials doing about these threats? Parliamentary reporter Janyce McGregor will tell you where we're most vulnerable, why meddling keeps happening, and what you need to know in this season of spin.

There was no shortage of clashes and controversy as major party leaders’ squared off against each other in Montreal in both French and English. There were battles over pipelines, crime, change and how to deal with Donald Trump. Behind the scenes — concerns over how the debates were managed by organizers. Who came out on top and what’s the future of the debates? Party strategists share their thoughts.

Plus, political parties have made lots of promises, but they’re dragging their feet on how much those promises cost. A former federal budget watchdog explains why fully costed platforms matter and what it means when they’re unveiled so late in the campaign.

Next, host Catherine Cullen meets the Bloc Québécois candidate for LaSalle-Émard-Verdun on location in the recently flipped riding to ask how he hopes to hold on to his seat – as his party tries to win over voters across the province.

Finally, The House does a deep dive into the riding of Calgary Centre, where Premier Danielle Smith’s interjections into the campaign have provoked reactions from some voters.

This episode features the voices of:

• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• Sahir Khan, executive vice-president of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy
• Louis-Philippe Sauvé, Bloc Québécois candidate for LaSalle-Émard-Verdun
• Allison Dempster, CBC reporter and producer based in Calgary

The political nerds hosting this podcast eagerly await the ritual release of costed party platforms during an election campaign: those line-by-line expenses and revenues that detail how much each party plans to spend on – and how they’ll fund – their promises. But, with so few days to go until the end of this campaign, is there much room to actually sway a voter with a fully-costed deficit strategy? And what are the most important promises in these platforms, especially those by the Liberals and Conservatives? Jason Markusoff, Daniel Thibeault and Catherine Cullen have some answers.

This is it: House Party has been building up to the Canadian federal election for weeks, and now it’s actually happened! On just an hour or two of sleep, Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault react to the news that it’ll be a Liberal minority government in the House, and share what they think are the biggest surprises of the day. 

House Party has a new episode coming up, but first we bring you the latest election results from our colleagues at Power & Politics.

Liberal MP-elect Bruce Fanjoy explains how he beat Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in his own riding, and Conservative MP-elect Scott Aitchison explains why he thinks Poilievre should remain leader. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith discusses what she needs to see from Prime Minister Mark Carney to heal a divide between Ottawa and western provinces. Plus, former Conservative deputy leader Peter MacKay and former Conservative chief of staff David McLaughlin discuss the party's future after failing to capitalize on an over-20-point polling lead.

More from Power & Politics here: https://link.mgln.ai/PcUbqE

We'll be back with post-election episodes of House Party and The House soon, but in the meantime -- for a quick catchup on what you missed from election night, our friends at World Report have you covered.

World Report is a daily news podcast that brings you the biggest stories happening in Canada and around the world, in just 10 minutes.

Make World Report your daily quick hit of news by following it here: https://link.mgln.ai/6LAFCv

It’s the final countdown to election night. On Monday, millions of Canadians will cast their ballots and choose their next federal government at a critical moment for Canada. Catherine Cullen sits down with David Coletto to find out what pollsters will be watching as results roll in from coast to coast.

Next, CBC reporters on the road send us their final audio postcards from the campaign trail — with analysis on the Liberal, Conservative, NDP and Bloc Québécois campaigns so far.

Plus, our panel of political strategists dissect the final moments of the campaign, including new information about Liberal Leader Mark Carney’s call with U.S. President Donald Trump, reports that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is at odds with Nova Scotia’s Progressive Conservative premier and concerns that NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh will lose his seat.

Then, The House does a deep dive into the new Ontario riding of Milton East-Halton Hills South. The residents of two towns have been pulled together this election — and some are delighted to now be in a battleground riding where every vote counts.

Finally, a look into the classroom of a Vancouver Island University professor who’s using a game to teach students how hard it is to be a politician.

This episode features the voices of:

• David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data
• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• Kristen Everson, CBC producer
• Michael MacKenzie, political science professor at Vancouver Island University

On Tuesday, Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney had his first face-to-face with U.S. President Trump. On the surface, it was pretty cordial – with Trump declaring his desire to be “friends” with Canada, yet he continued to repeat his wish for Canada to become the 51st state, and the meeting ended with no concrete outcomes on pressing issues like tariffs. Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault break down what they saw on that televised Oval Office get-together, and whether Carney made any inroads into winning Trump over.

A fast-paced, hard-fought federal election is over — and the Liberals mounted a remarkable comeback to win a fourth mandate, this time with Mark Carney as prime minister. But, his to-do list shows there’s no time to rest. Host Catherine Cullen breaks down Carney’s packed schedule and what it tells us about Canada’s future.

Then, a senior writer for CBC’s parliamentary bureau answers audience questions about this third minority government. Plus, party strategists discuss the thin margins of victory, the stunning losses and the new makeup of the House of Commons that will once again require parties to work together to get anything done.

Finally, incoming Liberal, Conservative and NDP MPs each discuss what comes next for their respective caucuses — from governing priorities, to leadership questions, to figuring out what’s next for the Canada-U.S. relationship.

This episode features the voices of:

• Aaron Wherry, senior writer for CBC’s parliamentary bureau
• Marci Surkes, Liberal strategist
• Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist
• George Soule, NDP strategist
• Rebecca Alty, Liberal MP-elect for Northwest Territories
• Gérard Deltell, Conservative MP-elect for Louis-Saint-Laurent—Akiawenhrahk
• Gord Johns, NDP MP-elect for Courtenay—Alberni

When Prime Minister Mark Carney announced his cabinet Tuesday morning, many political watchers were looking for evidence of change. And while a handful of high-profile MPs stayed put, there are 24 new names at the cabinet table, 13 of whom are also new to Parliament. The mantra from the PM is “fresh perspectives”. But is it the right team to deliver on Carney’s big promises? Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault dive into who’s in and who’s out, and why it matters.

The long-awaited Carney-Trump summit in the Oval Office left the Canadian delegation feeling encouraged, though the U.S. president still taunted the prime minister over Canada becoming the 51st American state. 

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest, also a member of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Council on Canada-U.S. Relations, joins the show to explain why he believes Canada could ultimately have reason to thank the president.

Then, two former top political staffers share their thoughts on the critical meeting and discuss the future of the Canada-U.S. trade and security relationship and how it could influence Carney’s cabinet picks.

Plus, as the Conservative Party asks itself tough questions about what to do next following a stinging election loss, Globe and Mail senior reporter Stephanie Levitz compares notes with Catherine Cullen on what she’s hearing inside the Conservative caucus and whether Pierre Poilievre is safe as party leader.

Finally, MPs who lose their seats in the election are quietly packing up and saying goodbye. Liberal Marc Serré, Conservative Rick Perkins, New Democrat Peter Julian and the Bloc’s Julie Vignola share the lessons they’ve learned from hard losses, and the joys and sacrifices of political life.

This episode features the voices of:

• Jean Charest, former Quebec premier and former deputy prime minister
• Brian Clow, former deputy chief of staff to Justin Trudeau
• Gerry Keller, chief of staff to former foreign affairs John Baird
• Stephanie Levitz, senior reporter for the Globe and Mail
• Julie Vignola, former Bloc Québécois MP 
• Rick Perkins, former Conservative MP
• Peter Julian, former NDP MP
• Marc Serré, former Liberal MP

Mark Carney won the Canadian election on a promise to deal with Donald Trump – to quash his tariffs and threats about the 51st state. But with big domestic issues rearing their heads, from a looming Canada Post strike to threats of an Alberta succession referendum and growing demands from premiers – should Trump still top the PM’s to-do list? Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault debate what issues Carney should tackle first.

Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled his new cabinet this week, but he won’t be unveiling a budget this year — a move that drew plenty of criticism from his opponents. Newly appointed Industry Minister Melanie Joly joins The House to discuss the decision and weighs in on the new government’s other economic priorities. Then, two Hill watchers offer their takes on whether Carney’s cabinet picks deliver on his promise for change.

Plus, weeks after the election, dramatic recounts are still underway in a handful of ridings, and those results could shake up the House of Commons even further. An elections expert explains what’s happening and whether the flip-flopping risks undermining confidence in elections.

Finally, measles cases are rising in some parts of the country and provinces are under fire for not doing enough to keep the public better informed. Two doctors talk to Catherine Cullen about what can happen when politics and a deadly disease collide.

This episode features the voices of:

• Melanie Joly, Minister of Industry
• Shannon Proudfoot, writer for The Globe and Mail’s Ottawa bureau
• Paul Wells, author and podcaster
• Holly Ann Garnett, associate professor of the Royal Military College of Canada
• Dr. James Talbot, former Chief Medical Officer of Health for Alberta
• Dr. Kumanan Wilson, Chief Scientific Officer of Bruyère Health Research Institute

Prime Minister Mark Carney and his Liberal is government is planning to speed up approvals for resource projects deemed to be in the national interest — but there are already concerns over the environment and Indigenous treaty rights. Host Catherine Cullen talks to the Alberta Chambers of Commerce CEO and two First Nations chiefs about Carney’s plan and who’s at risk of getting left behind.

Then, provincial and territorial premiers gear up up for a key meeting with Carney in Saskatoon. Can this meeting reset the federal-provincial relationship? Two legislature reporters from Ontario and Alberta weigh in.

Finally, The House delves into what we know about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to get the federal government back into the business of building homes with housing experts Mike Moffat and Steve Pomeroy, then Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow weighs in on whether the Liberal goal of building a half a million homes a year is realistic.

This episode features the voices of:

• Shauna Feth, president and CEO of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce
• Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in Alberta
• Chief Gary Quisess of Neskantaga First Nation
• Robert Benzie, Queen’s Park Bureau Chief for the Toronto Star
• Ryan Jespersen, host of Real Talk
• Mike Moffat, founding director of the University of Ottawa's "Missing Middle Initiative"
• Steve Pomeroy, housing research policy consultant
• Olivia Chow, mayor of Toronto

King Charles spent a whirlwind 24 hours in Ottawa at the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney, capped off by his delivery of the Speech from the Throne. It was the first time a sovereign had delivered the throne speech in nearly 5 decades, and many saw this as a chance for the King to affirm Canada’s sovereignty and independence, in the face of 51st-state threats from Donald Trump. But could one speech possibly deliver on that hope? And what did the King’s visit actually accomplish? Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault wade through the pomp and circumstance for some answers of substance.

There’s an air of excitement in Ottawa as it prepares for King Charles III to arrive and deliver the speech from the throne, which lays out the Liberal government’s plan and priorities. His visit is also widely seen as pushback against U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to turn Canada into the 51st state. 

But according to the new U.S. ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, that saga is over and Canada should move on. He sits with Catherine Cullent to discuss that and the next steps in the Canada-U.S. relationship.

Plus, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Canada of emboldening Hamas, a Middle East expert joins The House to talk about if there’s been a shift in Canadian-Israeli relations. 

Then, a constitutional expert, a royal watcher, an Indigenous leader and members of Quebec’s sovereignty parties talk about what message King Charles’ speech will send to Trump — or whether the whole thing ultimately means nothing to the U.S. president.

Finally, the parliamentary bureau chief of the National Post and the Ottawa bureau chief of La Presse explain what to look for in the government’s to-do list.

This episode features the voices of:

• Pete Hoekstra, U.S. ambassador to Canada
• Thomas Juneau, University of Ottawa political science professor
• Patricia Treble, royal watcher
• Philippe Lagassé, Carleton University political science professor
• Perry Bellegarde, former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations
• Pascal Bérubé, Parti Québécois MNA
• Catherine Gentilcore, Parti Québécois MNA
• Ruba Ghazal, Québec solidaire MNA
• Stuart Thomson, National Post parliamentary bureau chief
• Joel-Denis Bellavance, La Presse Ottawa bureau chief

It was a love-in at the First Ministers’ meeting in Saskatoon this week, with the premiers and territorial leaders saying “it felt like Christmas” as they discussed national infrastructure projects – as a group – for the first time in years. But despite all the good vibes, the meeting ended without a clear project list. So what’s next? How much will actually get built, and how long will this unity among the first ministers last? Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault parse out the possible nation-building presents to come.

Prime Minister Mark Carney and his Liberals unveiled several new pieces of legislation to boost Canada’s economy and strengthen its security. Internal Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland joins the show to explain the government’s plan to scrap federal interprovincial trade barriers — and if it will really be that easy to create ‘one Canadian economy.’

Plus, after Carney met with Canada’s premiers to chart out major national projects, Yiota Kokkinos, a former director general at Natural Resources Canada and Andrew Leach, an energy economist discuss which projects should be prioritized.

Then, David Reevely, an Ottawa correspondent for The Logic, breaks down concerns over the Liberal government’s proposed legislation that would give federal authorities sweeping new border security powers.

After that, young Canadian jobseekers Riley Locke and Mel Purchase tell The House why it’s hard for young people to find jobs these days. Then, Ilona Dougherty, co-creator of the Youth & Innovation Project at the University of Waterloo, explains why and what it means for Canada’s economy. Finally, Minister of Jobs Patty Hajdu explains what the government is doing to respond.

Finally, former cabinet minister and first Canadian in space Marc Garneau died this week after a brief illness. The House delves into the archives to replay part of his last interview with the program, recorded on location last year in the Canadian Space and Aviation Museum.

This episode features the voices of:

• Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
• Yiota Kokkinos, former director general of Natural Resources Canada
• Andrew Leach, energy economist at the University of Alberta
• David Reevely, Ottawa correspondent for The Logic
• Riley Locke, young jobseeker
• Mel Purchase, young jobseeker
• Ilona Dougherty, co-creator and managing director of the Youth & Innovation Project at the University of Waterloo
• Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs
• Marc Garneau, former cabinet minister and first Canadian in space

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced Canada will increase defence spending to 2% of GDP, meeting our NATO commitment 5 years earlier than expected. After a decade of nudging, foreign allies are celebrating the military investment. But where exactly will the extra $9.3 billion come from? Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault analyze the strategy behind the sudden funding increase, the government’s capacity to move quickly, and what might end up getting left behind.

Correction: At the 25:45 mark in this episode, Catherine Cullen says the government has to spend money on programs such as the Canada Pension Plan. The CPP is in fact funded not by the government but by employers and employees who pay into it.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is gearing up for a critical G7 meeting with leaders of the world’s most powerful democracies on his home turf in Alberta — but the renewed conflict between Iran and Israel could shake up the agenda. Catherine Cullen sits down with Anita Anand for her first interview as foreign affairs minister to discuss the airstrikes, the upcoming meeting and how close Canada is to reaching a deal with the United States.

Plus, Jason Stanley, an American facism expert who’s moving to Canada over concerns about the Trump administration, joins The House to argue why he thinks the U.S. is no longer a democracy — and how world leaders should treat the U.S. president. Then, former G7 sherpa Senator Peter Boehm pulls back the curtain on what Trump is like in world meetings.

After that, former Conservative leader and officer in the Canadian Armed Forces Erin O’Toole comments on Mark Carney’s plans for military spending. Finally, as a number of Conservatives have applauded the Carney government’s moves, writer Paul Wells and Globe and Mail columnist Shannon Proudfoot discuss: Is Mark Carney a C(c)onservative?

This episode features the voices of:

• Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Jason Stanley, author of Erasing History: How Fascists Rewrite the Past to Control the Future
• Peter Boehm, Canadian senator and former G7 sherpa
• Erin O’Toole, former Conservative leader
• Shannon Proudfoot, columnist for The Globe and Mail
• Paul Wells, author and podcaster

Despite all the nail biting about how U.S. President Trump would show up at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, relief descended Monday after a reportedly jovial and productive meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney. But by Monday night, Trump was gone – bailing from the G7 early to deal with the outbreak of war between Israel and Iran. Catherine Cullen, Jason Markusoff and Daniel Thibeault analyze the effect Trump had on his fellow leaders – and whether Canada actually had more space to get more done on day two without him. 

After a flurry of amendments and a series of Friday evening votes, Prime Minister Mark Carney has passed his One Canadian Economy Act through the House of Commons. The bill accelerates approvals for projects deemed in Canada’s national interest, but not everyone is pleased with the Liberals fast-tracking the legislation. Trevor Mercredi, Grand Chief of Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta joins The House to explain why some First Nations are concerned about the government’s need for speed. Plus, Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon argues for why Ottawa needs to move fast. 

Then, Toronto Star Ottawa bureau chief Tonda MacCharles and La Presse Ottawa bureau chief Joel-Denis Bellavance discuss whether Carney is right to rush his major projects bill through Parliament — and how long the Liberal-Conservative alliance on the legislation can last.

Finally, As Prime Minister Mark Carney gets set to meet NATO leaders next week, Catherine Cullen talks to former Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment at NATO Wendy Gilmour and former Canadian Military Representative to NATO, retired Vice-Admiral Bob Davidson, for insight into how the alliance will seek to find unity in an age of war and U.S. President Donald Trump. 

This episode features the voices of:

• Trevor Mercredi, Grand Chief of Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta
• Steven MacKinnon, Government House Leader
• Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto Star
• Joel-Denis Bellavance, Ottawa bureau chief for La Presse
• Wendy Gilmour, former assistant secretary general for defence investment at NATO
• Bob Davidson, retired vice-admiral and former Canadian military representative at NATO