Top News
Pierre Poilievre's 'biological clock' comment prompts backlash online: 'No wonder his numbers are so bad with women'

Pierre Poilievre's 'biological clock' comment prompts backlash online: 'No wonder his numbers are so bad with women'

"We will not forget that 36-year-old couple whose biological clock is running out faster than they can afford to buy a home and have kids," said Poilievre. Pierre Poilievre's campaign stop in New Brunswick included a talking point about millennial women that has ruffled feathers online. On Monday, the Conservative Party leader appeared in Saint John, N.B. where he discussed...

Conservative candidate booted after CTV News uncovers audio of him joking Trudeau should receive death penalty

Conservative candidate booted after CTV News uncovers audio of him joking Trudeau should receive death penalty

A Conservative candidate who once voiced his support for “public hangings” – even joking that former prime minister Justin Trudeau should receive the death penalty – will no longer be running to represent the party after CTV News first obtained audio of his comments. “The comments are clearly unacceptable. Mr. McKenzie will not be the Conservative candidate,” a Conservative campaign...

Liberal candidate Paul Chiang withdraws from race after suggesting people claim China's bounty on Conservative

Liberal candidate Paul Chiang withdraws from race after suggesting people claim China's bounty on Conservative

Move comes after RCMP announced probe into comments made about Conservative candidate Joe Tay. Embattled Toronto-area Liberal candidate Paul Chiang is dropping out of the race just hours after the RCMP told CBC News it's looking into whether he broke the law by suggesting people turn a Conservative candidate running in a nearby riding into the Chinese consulate to collect...

Democrats push vote on tariffs targeting Canada, Trump calls for Republican support

    Democrats push vote on tariffs targeting Canada, Trump calls for Republican support

    Democrats in the U.S. Senate are moving forward on a resolution to block sweeping tariffs targeting Canada as President Donald Trump presses Republican lawmakers to continue backing his trade agenda. Sen. Tim Kaine plans to force a vote on Trump's use of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, also called IEEPA, to declare an emergency over fentanyl trafficking to hit...

    How one GTA riding turned from 'obvious slam dunk' for Conservatives to 'much more confusing'

    How one GTA riding turned from 'obvious slam dunk' for Conservatives to 'much more confusing'

    Like the grey skies above her Newmarket campaign office, Sandra Cobena’s forecast of flipping the must-win Liberal-held riding have become cloudedIt is Monday morning on the second week of the federal election campaign and for Sandra Cobena, that means it’s sign day.



    ElectionWatch 2025

    Polling Trendlines

    NNW EW2025 Dataviz 2025 EN1 POLLS

    Latest Results

    Liberals Hold 15-Point Lead

    Liberals Hold 15-Point Lead

    With less than a month to go until Election Day, the Liberal Party enjoys a very clear and stable lead. At 48 per cent, the party holds a 15-point lead over the second-place Conservatives, who are sitting at 33 points. At seven points, the NDP has been stuck below 10 points for nearly a month. The Bloc Québécois has seen...

    Cost of Living and the Vote: Those economically ‘Struggling’ lean CPC, but it’s a shrinking group

      Cost of Living and the Vote: Those economically ‘Struggling’ lean CPC, but it’s a shrinking group

      Economic turmoil between Canada and the United States has taken the headlines this year, perhaps obscuring several positive domestic trends. Falling rents, a grocery cost reprieve, and stable inflation have some Canadians feeling better about their economic stress, and it appears to the benefit of the federal Liberals. New data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds a two-point decrease...

      National Tracker: Liberals 44%, Conservatives 38%

      National Tracker: Liberals 44%, Conservatives 38%

      A new poll by Liaison Strategies for the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC), the industry association representing Canada’s non-official language newspapers, TV, radio, and online news media, finds the Liberals leading with 44% (+1) with the Conservatives once again at 38% (No Change). The rolling survey, conducted from March 29 to March 31, 2025, used interactive...

      Seat Projections

      NNW EW2025 Dataviz 2025 EN1 SEATS

      Canada's Campaign Watchers

      This week's analysis

      To add to our interesting content about the federal election campaign, Spark and Northstar Public Affairs recruited a unique panel of people who have worked in political campaigns in Canada. Each week, we’ll survey them online to see what they think is happening. This is our first synopsis, based on a survey completed March 26-27. Read More 

      Who Our Watchers Are:
      Adam Taylor Adrian Jean Alex Maheu Ali Salam Aliya Mohammed Andrew Casey Andrew MacDougall Andy Gibbons Axel Rioux Ben Parsons Brad Lavigne Brendan McGuinty Brian Clow Brianna Ames Bruce Winchester Bruce Anderson Cameron MacKeen Cara Salci Carlene Variyan Caroline Séguin Chad Bowie Chad Walsh Chisholm Pothier Chris Day Chris McCluskey Christine Burke Dan Mader Dave Forestell Dave Prisco David McArthur Dennis Matthews Dennis Prouse Derek Nighbor Dil Puar Dimitri Soudas Elder Marques Elly Alboim Eric Johnson Fraser Macdonald Fred DeLorey Gabe Garfinkel Gabrielle Berard Greg MacNeil Greg McEachern Hardave Birk Jaime Watt Jamie Kippen Janet Fryday Dorey Jason Kenney Jeremy Broadhurst Jim Anderson Joanne Macrae Jordan Deagle Kate Harrison Kathleen Monk Katie Telford Ken Boessenkool Kevin Bosch Lanny Cardow Laryssa Waler Laura Kurkimaki Laura Pennell Lawrence Cannon Lisa MacLeod Lisa Raitt Marc-Olivier Fortin Marcia Smith Max Dea Megan Leslie Melanie Richer Melissa Cotton Mike Solberg Mollie Anderson Monte Solberg Morgan Swan Nancy Jamieson Patrick Rogers Perry Tsergas Phil Cartwright Rebecca Rogers Richard Mahoney Rick Anderson Rob Silver Roxanna Benoit Ryan Dunn Sabrina Grover Scott Feschuk Scott Reid Sean Speer Sheamus Murphy Stephen Carter Tasha Kheiriddin Tausha Michaud Tim Powers Tyler Banham Vandana Fatima Kattar Will Stewart Yaroslav Baran Zain Velji Zita Astravas

      Election News

      Pierre Poilievre's 'biological clock' comment prompts backlash online: 'No wonder his numbers are so bad with women'

      Pierre Poilievre's 'biological clock' comment prompts backlash online: 'No wonder his numbers are so bad with women'

      "We will not forget that 36-year-old couple whose biological clock is running out faster than they can afford to buy a home and have kids," said Poilievre. Pierre Poilievre's campaign stop in New Brunswick included a talking point about millennial women that has ruffled feathers online. On Monday, the Conservative Party leader appeared in Saint John, N.B. where he discussed...

      Defence pledges have unprecedented electoral spotlight, but more ambition may be needed to match allies: experts

      Defence pledges have unprecedented electoral spotlight, but more ambition may be needed to match allies: experts

      Amid annexation threats from United States President Donald Trump, Canada’s major national parties have put a spotlight on defence pledges in the early days of the election campaign, but questions loom as to whether the commitments are sufficient to match the burgeoning peril. Prime Minister Mark Carney, running for a seat in Nepean, Ont., has remarked that Canada’s sovereignty faces...

      How one GTA riding turned from 'obvious slam dunk' for Conservatives to 'much more confusing'

      How one GTA riding turned from 'obvious slam dunk' for Conservatives to 'much more confusing'

      Like the grey skies above her Newmarket campaign office, Sandra Cobena’s forecast of flipping the must-win Liberal-held riding have become cloudedIt is Monday morning on the second week of the federal election campaign and for Sandra Cobena, that means it’s sign day.

      Conservative candidate booted after CTV News uncovers audio of him joking Trudeau should receive death penalty

      Conservative candidate booted after CTV News uncovers audio of him joking Trudeau should receive death penalty

      A Conservative candidate who once voiced his support for “public hangings” – even joking that former prime minister Justin Trudeau should receive the death penalty – will no longer be running to represent the party after CTV News first obtained audio of his comments. “The comments are clearly unacceptable. Mr. McKenzie will not be the Conservative candidate,” a Conservative campaign...

      Jenni Byrne’s Big Gamble

      Jenni Byrne’s Big Gamble

      The ruthless tactician behind Pierre Poilievre’s campaign has spent decades shaping Canadian conservatism from behind the scenes. This year’s election will be her greatest achievement—or her undoing.

      New biography Ripper delivers a searing and convincing critique of Pierre Poilievre

      New biography Ripper delivers a searing and convincing critique of Pierre Poilievre

      Ripper has one message: The Pierre Poilievre we see today is the same person as the teenager he was in Calgary’s Reform Party backrooms. Mark Bourrie describes that 1990s teenager as “the political equivalent of a hockey goon,” and argues that he hasn’t adjusted his behaviour or outlook since then. However, to understand Canada’s “Trump-lite,” Bourrie argues, we need to...

      Campaign Analysis

      The Conservatives have a plan. But the Liberals have something you can’t plan for

      The Conservatives have a plan. But the Liberals have something you can’t plan for

      One of the grand traditions in federal political campaigns is that someone will always chirp: “If only they’d put me in charge, we wouldn’t be losing!” Yet winning is never easy, particularly for Conservatives. A year ago, when the CPC was riding high, many in Canada’s entrepreneurial community were relieved. The Liberal government had just increased the capital gains tax...

      NYT Columnists Warn: Superintelligent AI Just 2–3 Years Away. Can Election 45 Look Beyond Tariffs?

      NYT Columnists Warn: Superintelligent AI Just 2–3 Years Away. Can Election 45 Look Beyond Tariffs?

      When three leading New York Times columnists sound the same urgent warning at the same time, we should pay attention. Ezra Klein, Thomas Friedman, and Kevin Roose have just delivered a stark and urgent message: They believe Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)—highly advanced, human-like AI—is only two or three years away.

      Mark Carney, Power Broker

      Mark Carney, Power Broker

      Liberal leader Mark Carney has undone the sizable lead that Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives held in the polls while Justin Trudeau was the still the prime minister. Carney has done this by responding to voters’ primary concerns and offering a suite of policies that have broad appeal. If voters give him what he asks for — a “strong, positive...

      Week one goes to the Carney Liberals. But it isn’t over ’til it’s over

      Week one goes to the Carney Liberals. But it isn’t over ’til it’s over

      Mark Carney and his revitalized Liberal Party have come roaring out of the gate, opening a comfortable lead over Pierre Poilievre and a Conservative campaign that still seems to be waiting for the starter’s pistol. If the six-point edge we’re seeing in our Ipsos polling for Global News holds through to election day, Carney could be standing on the doorstep...

      Pierre Poilievre can still become prime minister - with a major strategy shift

      Pierre Poilievre can still become prime minister - with a major strategy shift

      By now, it’s clear that the Conservative Party, once riding high on Trudeau fatigue, has bungled its commanding pre-election lead. That such a fate was avoidable only compounds the disappointment. Yet, in politics as in war, setbacks are not always fatal, provided one has the imagination – and the ruthlessness – to correct course.

      Mark Carney’s Liberals have a real plan to address housing. No one is going to care if they don’t get out of their own way

      Mark Carney’s Liberals have a real plan to address housing. No one is going to care if they don’t get out of their own way

      For years before Donald Trump wormed his way back into the U.S. presidency, forcing the entire world, including, and perhaps especially, Canada, to refocus on his mush-brained threats, a single issue dominated Canadian politics: Housing. By the beginning of last year, just about everyone of any political stripe in this country agreed the housing market was out of control. There...

      Policy Announcements

      Poilievre Will Unleash Newfoundland and Labrador’s Energy

        Poilievre Will Unleash Newfoundland and Labrador’s Energy

        Today, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said that as Prime Minister, he will support the plan to double Newfoundland and Labrador’s oil and gas production and approve the LNG Newfoundland and Labrador project. Conservatives will work with the province to end the uncertainty and delays that a decade of Liberal government has created. “I support Newfoundland and Labrador’s plan to double...

        Singh: Public health care is ours—and we’re not giving it up

          Singh: Public health care is ours—and we’re not giving it up

          Today, Jagmeet Singh stood alongside frontline workers to deliver a clear message: Canada’s public health-care system is not for sale—not to Trump, not to profiteers, not now, not ever. “Donald Trump has made it clear he’s willing to use trade pressure to advance the interests of U.S. corporations—including in areas like health care,” said Singh. “Canadians believe in care over...

          Mark Carney’s Liberals take action to make life more affordable

            Mark Carney’s Liberals take action to make life more affordable

            Mark Carney is taking action to put money back in the pockets of Canadians and build a stronger economy. “We can’t control President Trump, but we can make it easier for Canadians to weather the storm by putting more money back in their pocket,” said Mark Carney, Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. “Our Liberal plan to make life...

            Poilievre Commits to all 5 Energy Sector Asks to End Dependence on US

              Poilievre Commits to all 5 Energy Sector Asks to End Dependence on US

              Today, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre committed to meeting all of the policy recommendations from Canada’s energy sector to end dependence on the U.S. market and unleash Canada’s economy. Poilievre challenged Mark Carney to do the same and to repudiate his radical commitment to “keep it in the ground”—the same policy that gave us the Lost Liberal Decade. “We need to...

              Singh: Climate Action That Protects You from Trump’s Trade War and Rising Costs

                Singh: Climate Action That Protects You from Trump’s Trade War and Rising Costs

                With Trump’s trade threats fuelling fear and economic uncertainty, Canadians are already bracing against a rising cost of living and a worsening climate crisis. Today, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced a plan to lower energy bills, create good jobs, and stop giving oil and gas CEOs a free ride.

                Green Party will create a National Civil Defence Corps to Strengthen Canada’s Resilience

                  Green Party will create a National Civil Defence Corps to Strengthen Canada’s Resilience

                  From climate disasters to cyber threats and geopolitical instability, Canada must ensure its citizens have the tools and support needed to meet the security challenges of the 21st century. Today, the Green Party is announcing our transformative National Civil Defence Corps plan to defend a strong and independent Canada while promoting peace and emergency readiness by:



                  The Conservatives have a plan. But the Liberals have something you can’t plan for

                  The Conservatives have a plan. But the Liberals have something you can’t plan for

                  One of the grand traditions in federal political campaigns is that someone will always chirp: “If only they’d put me in charge, we wouldn’t be losing!” Yet winning is never easy, particularly for Conservatives. A year ago, when the CPC was riding high, many in Canada’s entrepreneurial community were relieved. The Liberal government had just increased the capital gains tax...

                  NYT Columnists Warn: Superintelligent AI Just 2–3 Years Away.  Can Election 45 Look Beyond Tariffs?
                  Mark Carney, Power Broker

                  Mark Carney, Power Broker

                  Liberal leader Mark Carney has undone the sizable lead that Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives held in the polls while Justin Trudeau was the still the prime minister. Carney has done this by responding to voters’ primary concerns and offering a suite of policies that have broad appeal. If voters give him what he asks for — a “strong, positive...

                  Week one goes to the Carney Liberals. But it isn’t over ’til it’s over

                  Week one goes to the Carney Liberals. But it isn’t over ’til it’s over

                  Mark Carney and his revitalized Liberal Party have come roaring out of the gate, opening a comfortable lead over Pierre Poilievre and a Conservative campaign that still seems to be waiting for the starter’s pistol. If the six-point edge we’re seeing in our Ipsos polling for Global News holds through to election day, Carney could be standing on the doorstep...

                  Pierre Poilievre can still become prime minister - with a major strategy shift

                  Pierre Poilievre can still become prime minister - with a major strategy shift

                  By now, it’s clear that the Conservative Party, once riding high on Trudeau fatigue, has bungled its commanding pre-election lead. That such a fate was avoidable only compounds the disappointment. Yet, in politics as in war, setbacks are not always fatal, provided one has the imagination – and the ruthlessness – to correct course.

                  Mark Carney’s Liberals have a real plan to address housing. No one is going to care if they don’t get out of their own way

                  Mark Carney’s Liberals have a real plan to address housing. No one is going to care if they don’t get out of their own way

                  For years before Donald Trump wormed his way back into the U.S. presidency, forcing the entire world, including, and perhaps especially, Canada, to refocus on his mush-brained threats, a single issue dominated Canadian politics: Housing. By the beginning of last year, just about everyone of any political stripe in this country agreed the housing market was out of control. There...

                  The international community has been silent on this growing threat. Worse, Mark Carney’s Liberals mostly have been too

                  The international community has been silent on this growing threat. Worse, Mark Carney’s Liberals mostly have been too

                  Thanks to tactful diplomacy, Canada and Greenland share a border. Thanks to increasingly an increasingly aggressive foreign policy coming out of Washington, the two countries now share an existential threat, as well. While all of Canada’s political leaders now, finally, recognize the need to take Arctic sovereignty seriously, Canada needs to immediately stand up for Greenland as it faces intimidation...

                  To succeed in a Trump world, there is one thing liberals in both Canada and the U.S. must do

                  To succeed in a Trump world, there is one thing liberals in both Canada and the U.S. must do

                  One of the biggest knocks against Justin Trudeau’s government is that it failed to get big things done. It was great at announcing ambitious plans with multibillion-dollar price tags. But when it came to actually building stuff, not so much. The list is familiar: military jets that were studied for years but never arrived; housing plans that promised a lot...

                  Mark Carney needs to be shamed into doing the right thing

                  Mark Carney needs to be shamed into doing the right thing

                  Mark Carney had a chance to define himself as a Liberal leader who is guided by values and unafraid of decisive action, and on Monday he failed spectacularly. Was it overconfidence? A lack of political skills? A refusal to bend to opposition calls? Whatever held Carney back from dumping Paul Chiang as the Liberal candidate in Markham—Unionville, it raises questions...

                  Carney faces ‘the ultimate test,’ which could well decide Canada’s very existence

                  Carney faces ‘the ultimate test,’ which could well decide Canada’s very existence

                  Speaking to reporters after a recent cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Mark Carney told the assembled media that Canada’s old relationship with the United States, “based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military co-operation, is over.”



                  It is astonishing – and reprehensible – that Paul Chiang remains a Liberal candidate
                  Carney reminds voters why they wanted the Liberals out in the first place

                  Carney reminds voters why they wanted the Liberals out in the first place

                  Paul Chiang's comments, and Carney's defence of the candidate, are a sign that the Liberal party’s inexplicable attachment to Beijing remains intact

                  Extremist Candidates Welcomed on Poilievre’s Team

                  Extremist Candidates Welcomed on Poilievre’s Team

                  After 91-year-old former prime minister Jean Chrétien’s rousing speech to Liberals earlier this month, it can be easy to forget the still-formidable politician was once doubted, even dubbed “yesterday’s man.” That label prompted Chrétien to run his first campaign as Liberal leader in 1993 showcasing a team of star candidates, invoking the slogan “I have the people, I have the...

                  Moe, Smith prove valuable assets ... for Carney and Liberals

                  Moe, Smith prove valuable assets ... for Carney and Liberals

                  The premiers of Saskatchewan and Alberta support Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, but they're helping the campaign of Mark Carney's Liberals.

                  How Poilievre and Singh can carve out political space during tariff war with Trump

                  How Poilievre and Singh can carve out political space during tariff war with Trump

                  The astonishing news Friday of a polite and insult-free phone call between Trump and Mark Carney — one surprisingly, the U.S. president had asked for — has pushed the Trump roller-coaster up for the first time. It may only last hours or days, probably not weeks, but it signals that Canada’s tough retaliatory posture to Trump’s trade war is giving...

                  Pierre Poilievre’s big problem as Conservatives slide in the polls? He can’t turn his enemies into friends

                  Pierre Poilievre’s big problem as Conservatives slide in the polls? He can’t turn his enemies into friends

                  Pierre Poilievre went into this election campaign with plenty of political skills, but lacking one he needs right now — the ability to turn enemies into friends.That could be a tall order for this take-no-prisoners Conservative leader.

                  Carney is asking Canadians to give him a majority to deal with Trump

                  Carney is asking Canadians to give him a majority to deal with Trump

                  A few months ago, only people who were smoking the drapes would have thought a Liberal majority possible. Now, who knows? Driving into my hometown, there is a sign at the Four Corners in a farmer’s field. It reads “Mr. Trump. Don’t poke the Goose.” It’s the Canada Goose, of course. The words are directed at U.S. President Donald Trump...

                  The Economic Pressures at Home: Why the Excise Taxes on Alcohol Should Evaporate
                  Bread, not circuses: dwindling appetite for politics as usual is helping Carney

                  Bread, not circuses: dwindling appetite for politics as usual is helping Carney

                  Prime Minister Mark Carney will probably never be a spellbinding public speaker, at least judging by his first tentative forays. When he takes to the podium, he delivers his message with all the flair, passion, and levity of a central banker addressing a meeting of the International Metallurgy and Materials Congress. Unsurprising, given his resumé. But press conferences? He is...

                  "Is Canada The Greatest Country on Earth?" Depends Who You Ask (And How Old They Are)

                  "Is Canada The Greatest Country on Earth?" Depends Who You Ask (And How Old They Are)

                  In the heat of a federal election campaign, with Donald Trump once again occupying the White House and making noise and consistent threats about tariffs and even annexation of Canadian territory, patriotic fervour in Canada is on the rise. Parties are campaigning with slogans of “Canada Strong” and “Canada First”. You’d think that in such a moment of national self-reflection...

                  Is Pierre Poilievre ‘too Trumpy?’ Does Mark Carney know his candidates’ names? 5 moments that shook up the election campaign this week

                  Is Pierre Poilievre ‘too Trumpy?’ Does Mark Carney know his candidates’ names? 5 moments that shook up the election campaign this week

                  Welcome to Election 2025 and the weekly campaign edition of On The Contrary, in which Susan Delacourt and Matt Gurney will be tracking the race by focusing on the five people who have made things interesting or game-changing.

                  This election campaign isn’t about the United States. It’s about Canada, and why we matter in the world

                  This election campaign isn’t about the United States. It’s about Canada, and why we matter in the world

                  This is a hard time for the country. It is also a good time. Hard because of tariffs, talk of annexation and other uncertainties every day. Good because, up against it, we’ve quickly come to learn that we have to face these challenges together. Provinces, territories, regions historically defined by difference – language, culture, religion, race – have discovered we...

                  Two veteran political journalists on the making of Pierre Poilievre — and what could unmake him

                  Two veteran political journalists on the making of Pierre Poilievre — and what could unmake him

                  The following is a conversation between two journalists who have been covering Canadian federal politics up close for decades. Stephen Maher — author of The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau — spoke to Mark Bourrie on March 22 about his latest book, Ripper: The Making of Pierre Poilievre, a thoughtful and unsparing examination of the life and career...

                  Clarifying ‘Caretaker’: The Prime Minister is the Prime Minister

                  Clarifying ‘Caretaker’: The Prime Minister is the Prime Minister

                  Mark Carney is the Prime Minister of Canada. He held this office despite not having had a seat in Parliament prior to the general election, and he still holds the office during it. He does not hold the office and the title during some events and not during others based on a temporary, election-period, church-and-state distinction between political and executive...

                  Crowdfunding Rules Are Inhibiting Canada’s Kindness
                  Is Pierre Poilievre too 'in sync' with Donald Trump?

                  Is Pierre Poilievre too 'in sync' with Donald Trump?

                  The Alberta premier thought it was a good thing — a top Conservative strategist begged to differ. The most controversial statement of the federal election so far was uttered before the campaign even started — not by a federal politician, but the premier of Alberta. In an interview taped on March 8 with a right-wing American media outlet, Danielle Smith...

                  Liberals screwing the West for political gain – again

                  Liberals screwing the West for political gain – again

                  Another federal election and the Mark Carney-Justin Trudeau Liberals are employing their tried-and-true tactic, made famous by the legendary Liberal campaign organizer Sen. Keith Davey in the 1980 election, to “screw the West, we’ll take the rest.”

                  Defence pledges have unprecedented electoral spotlight, but more ambition may be needed to match allies: experts

                  Defence pledges have unprecedented electoral spotlight, but more ambition may be needed to match allies: experts

                  Amid annexation threats from United States President Donald Trump, Canada’s major national parties have put a spotlight on defence pledges in the early days of the election campaign, but questions loom as to whether the commitments are sufficient to match the burgeoning peril. Prime Minister Mark Carney, running for a seat in Nepean, Ont., has remarked that Canada’s sovereignty faces...

                  NYT Columnists Warn: Superintelligent AI Just 2–3 Years Away. Can Election 45 Look Beyond Tariffs?

                  NYT Columnists Warn: Superintelligent AI Just 2–3 Years Away. Can Election 45 Look Beyond Tariffs?

                  When three leading New York Times columnists sound the same urgent warning at the same time, we should pay attention. Ezra Klein, Thomas Friedman, and Kevin Roose have just delivered a stark and urgent message: They believe Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)—highly advanced, human-like AI—is only two or three years away.

                  Jenni Byrne’s Big Gamble

                  Jenni Byrne’s Big Gamble

                  The ruthless tactician behind Pierre Poilievre’s campaign has spent decades shaping Canadian conservatism from behind the scenes. This year’s election will be her greatest achievement—or her undoing.

                  New biography Ripper delivers a searing and convincing critique of Pierre Poilievre

                  New biography Ripper delivers a searing and convincing critique of Pierre Poilievre

                  Ripper has one message: The Pierre Poilievre we see today is the same person as the teenager he was in Calgary’s Reform Party backrooms. Mark Bourrie describes that 1990s teenager as “the political equivalent of a hockey goon,” and argues that he hasn’t adjusted his behaviour or outlook since then. However, to understand Canada’s “Trump-lite,” Bourrie argues, we need to...



                  The consumer carbon tax is gone as of today. What will that mean for your wallet?

                  The consumer carbon tax is gone as of today. What will that mean for your wallet?

                  It's official — the consumer carbon tax is over, starting today. Mark Carney cancelled the fee on his first day as prime minister last month, signing a directive for the fuel charge to be removed on April 1. The levy had been added to the sale price of carbon-emitting products by fuel type. For gasoline, it was 17.6 cents a...

                  In front of U.S. audience, Smith blames Trudeau-Carney ‘switcheroo’ for Liberal popularity

                  In front of U.S. audience, Smith blames Trudeau-Carney ‘switcheroo’ for Liberal popularity

                  Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, appearing alongside conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, told a Florida gala last week the federal Liberals’ upswing in public support can be attributed to a change in leadership. “When I was down before, we were talking about the potential for a total wipe-out of the Liberal party. That’s how unpopular they had become,” Smith said, when asked...

                  At Florida gala, Danielle Smith tried to laugh off 51st state rhetoric. Here's what she said

                  At Florida gala, Danielle Smith tried to laugh off 51st state rhetoric. Here's what she said

                  CBC News has obtained video of Alberta premier's onstage discussion with podcaster Ben Shapiro. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's response to a U.S. podcaster's quips about Canada as the 51st state last week was to tell him and a conservative group's Florida donor gala that they'd regret having tens of millions of progressive Canadians voting for the U.S. president, according to...

                  Majority of Canadians support Carney disclosing assets, Poilievre getting security clearance: Nanos Research

                  Majority of Canadians support Carney disclosing assets, Poilievre getting security clearance: Nanos Research

                  Most Canadians support Liberal Leader Mark Carney disclosing the financial assets he’s placed in a blind trust while in office, as well as Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre obtaining security clearance to receive briefings about foreign interference, according to new data from Nanos Research.

                  ‘I was totally shocked’: shut-out Tory nomination hopefuls blast backroom players for denying them contests in GTA, Calgary, and B.C.

                  ‘I was totally shocked’: shut-out Tory nomination hopefuls blast backroom players for denying them contests in GTA, Calgary, and B.C.

                  Some shutout Conservative nomination candidates in the Greater Toronto Area, Calgary, and some British Columbia ridings say they have been unfairly denied the right to contested nominations by backroom party operatives. Some say they were led to believe that meeting fundraising targets would significantly boost their chances, but even after raising tens of thousands of dollars they were ultimately denied...

                  Canadian, American unions urging U.S. senators to vote to overturn Trump's tariffs

                  Canadian, American unions urging U.S. senators to vote to overturn Trump's tariffs

                  Unions on both sides of the border are calling on American senators to vote in favour of legislation to overturn U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods.

                  Pierre Poilievre dismisses calls for 'pivot' as Liberals increase lead in polls

                  Pierre Poilievre dismisses calls for 'pivot' as Liberals increase lead in polls

                  Conservative leader says he won't stop criticizing the incumbent government for its 'lost Liberal decade.' Pierre Poilievre says he disagrees with calls from some supporters for him to change his election strategy amid a Liberal surge in the polls, arguing that he should not stop talking about the “lost Liberal decade.” Monday morning, he poopooed any suggestion that he should...

                  Carney promises home building program, Poilievre pitches national energy corridor

                  Carney promises home building program, Poilievre pitches national energy corridor

                  Liberal Leader Mark Carney promised Monday to get the federal government back into the business of home building, while Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives pitched a national energy corridor to fast-track approval of key infrastructure. The two rival party leaders touted the plans as national projects to stand up to the United States as it menaces Canada's economy with a steady stream...

                  Carney says Paul Chiang has his 'confidence,' despite 'terrible lapse of judgment'

                  Carney says Paul Chiang has his 'confidence,' despite 'terrible lapse of judgment'

                  Liberal Leader Mark Carney said he will not be dropping Paul Chiang from the race in Markham–Unionville, despite the candidate’s comments about handing over a Conservative candidate to Chinese authorities to collect a lucrative bounty. Carney said he was “deeply offended” by those comments and said they demonstrated a “terrible lapse of judgment,” but believes this episode amounts to a...

                  Carney standing by candidate Paul Chiang, who suggested Conservative be turned over to China for bounty

                  Carney standing by candidate Paul Chiang, who suggested Conservative be turned over to China for bounty

                  Liberal Leader Mark Carney says Paul Chiang will remain a candidate under his banner, despite calls to ouster the Markham-Unionville incumbent for suggesting people turn in a Conservative candidate to the Chinese consulate and collect a bounty.

                  Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledges ‘national energy corridor’ to expedite approvals for pipelines, infrastructure

                  Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledges ‘national energy corridor’ to expedite approvals for pipelines, infrastructure

                  Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledged to create a “national energy corridor” across Canada, within which approvals for pipelines and other critical infrastructure would be fast-tracked, in order to help ship resources across the country or globally while bypassing the United States. He took aim at U.S. President Donald Trump in the announcement, saying this would help Canada reduce its dependence...

                  This Quebec battleground has an incumbent fighting for his life

                  This Quebec battleground has an incumbent fighting for his life

                  In the three-party battle for Trois-Rivières, the Bloc Québécois MP will be on the ballot, but not the campaign trail. On Friday morning, René Villemure filed his candidacy with Elections Canada. He went to the book fair to meet his constituents, attended a few meetings, and returned home to rest. Villemure, first elected in 2021, will not campaign, deliver any...

                  Former Liberal minister worked government contacts to ply COVID contracts without registering as lobbyist

                  Former Liberal minister worked government contacts to ply COVID contracts without registering as lobbyist

                  Former deputy PM Sheila Copps said she had permission not to register in contacting Anand's office. One offer was flagged by officials as suspicious

                  Mark Carney’s Liberals open up 8-point lead over Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives in latest Nanos tracking

                  Mark Carney’s Liberals open up 8-point lead over Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives in latest Nanos tracking

                  The federal Liberals have opened up an eight-point advantage over the Conservatives in the latest Nanos Research tracking on Day 9 of the federal election campaign.

                  More tariff turmoil

                  More tariff turmoil

                  It feels like we've been building to this week.Ever since U.S. President Donald Trump was elected, we've been waiting for a moment when his broad plan about tariffs is put forward.He initially said it would happen on inauguration day, then the first day of February. That was delayed to the 4th of February.

                  Election to likely hinge on 50 most competitive ridings, but things could shift greatly by polling day, say politicos

                  Election to likely hinge on 50 most competitive ridings, but things could shift greatly by polling day, say politicos

                  This election's ballot question is twofold: is it time for change, and who is best suited to stand up to Donald Trump, says pollster Greg Lyle. With American tariffs and calls for change creating extreme voter volatility, the federal election outcome will depend on tight races, but the list of battleground ridings may shift before the campaign ends—making it challenging...

                  Eyes warily turn to next round of U.S. tariffs during second week of federal election

                    Eyes warily turn to next round of U.S. tariffs during second week of federal election

                    The second week of the federal election campaign is underway, with a fresh round of U.S. tariffs expected to soon reverberate on the hustings.Eyes are turning to Wednesday when U.S. President Donald Trump is likely to slap "reciprocal tariffs" on countries including Canada over various alleged trade practices.

                    Liberals continue lead over Tories after 1st week of Canada election: poll

                    Liberals continue lead over Tories after 1st week of Canada election: poll

                    The Liberals continue to lead the Conservatives among voters after the first week of the federal election campaign, a new poll suggests, but the two parties are tied on who will best handle what’s seen as the top issue: affordability and the cost of living. The latest Ipsos poll conducted exclusively for Global News shows both the Liberals and new...

                    Poilievre shrugs off reports of campaign turmoil as he pitches tax relief

                    Poilievre shrugs off reports of campaign turmoil as he pitches tax relief

                    Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre brushed off reports of campaign turmoil Sunday as he pitched his party as the best choice to stand up to U.S. President Donald Trump. With the second week of the federal election campaign underway, another round of U.S. tariffs is expected to land on Wednesday -- tariffs that threaten to overtake the conversation in the federal...

                    Calls mount for Carney to fire Liberal candidate who said Conservative should be turned in to earn Chinese bounty

                    Calls mount for Carney to fire Liberal candidate who said Conservative should be turned in to earn Chinese bounty

                    Calls are mounting for Liberal Leader Mark Carney to fire Toronto-area candidate Paul Chiang, who said people should bring a Conservative politician to the local Chinese consulate to collect a bounty on him for criticizing Beijing’s crackdown on Hong Kong. NDP candidate Jenny Kwan urged Mr. Carney to drop Mr. Chiang for his comments on Conservative candidate Joe Tay. “He...

                    Independent MP Han Dong won't seek re-election in suburban Toronto riding

                    Independent MP Han Dong won't seek re-election in suburban Toronto riding

                    Former Liberal says he doesn't want to split the vote to Conservatives' benefit. Independent MP Han Dong said Sunday morning he will not seek re-election in Don Valley North — a decision that comes one day after the Liberals announced they're running a candidate in the suburban Toronto riding. "After speaking with my family, team and supporters, I have decided...

                    Politician's Pen

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                    Ovechkin’s NHL Legacy: A Hockey Milestone Overshadowed by Sportswashing and Ties to Putin
                    The State of Service Report

                    The State of Service Report

                    Our government created the Citizens’ Services portfolio in 2023 to champion service delivery excellence and to improve government efficiency. This State of Service report was drafted to communicate how we are accomplishing this mandate and to update Canadians on some of our biggest programs, including the Passport Program, the Canadian Dental Care Plan, Employment Insurance, Benefits Delivery Modernization and the...


                    Democrats push vote on tariffs targeting Canada, Trump calls for Republican support

                      Democrats push vote on tariffs targeting Canada, Trump calls for Republican support

                      Democrats in the U.S. Senate are moving forward on a resolution to block sweeping tariffs targeting Canada as President Donald Trump presses Republican lawmakers to continue backing his trade agenda. Sen. Tim Kaine plans to force a vote on Trump's use of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, also called IEEPA, to declare an emergency over fentanyl trafficking to hit...

                      White House abruptly fires career Justice Department prosecutors in latest norm-shattering move

                      White House abruptly fires career Justice Department prosecutors in latest norm-shattering move

                      WASHINGTON (AP) -- The recent firings of career Justice Department lawyers by the White House is a sign of President Donald Trump's tightening grip over the law enforcement agency known for its long tradition of political independence.

                      Trump pardons Navy veteran convicted in Capitol riot

                      Trump pardons Navy veteran convicted in Capitol riot

                      WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Donald Trump has pardoned a Virginia man whose sentence already was commuted for his convictions stemming from the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

                      Trump keeps talking about running for a third term. The US Constitution says that can't happen

                      Trump keeps talking about running for a third term. The US Constitution says that can't happen

                      President Donald Trump has just started his second term, his last one permitted under the U.S. Constitution. But he's already started talking about serving a third one.

                      International

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                      This section is sponsored by Canada's Motion Picture Industry.
                      French far-right leader Marine Le Pen is barred from seeking public office for embezzlement

                        French far-right leader Marine Le Pen is barred from seeking public office for embezzlement

                        French far-right leader Marine Le Pen strode out of a French court as the chief judge on Monday barred her from seeking public office after she was found guilty of embezzling EU funds. The judge hasn’t yet said how long Le Pen will be ineligible for running for public office -- a decision that could derail the far-right leader’s career...

                        Powerful earthquakes rock Thailand and Myanmar, triggering the collapse of a Bangkok high-rise

                          Powerful earthquakes rock Thailand and Myanmar, triggering the collapse of a Bangkok high-rise

                          A state of emergency has been declared in six regions and states in Myanmar after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake whose epicenter was near the country’s second largest city. State-run MRTV television said the military-run government’s proclamation includes the capital Naypyitaw and Mandalay, after the earthquake and a strong aftershock hit midday. Myanmar is in the midst of a civil war...

                          Shares of GM and other automakers slump following Trump tariffs, with Tesla the exception

                          Shares of GM and other automakers slump following Trump tariffs, with Tesla the exception

                          NEW YORK (AP) -- Shares of major automakers slumped following President Donald Trump's announcement that he will place 25% tariffs on auto imports.

                          Tesla sales fall by 49% in Europe even as the electric vehicle market grows

                          Tesla sales fall by 49% in Europe even as the electric vehicle market grows

                          FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) -- European sales of Tesla electric vehicles tumbled 49% in the first two months of the year compared with a year earlier even as overall sales of EVs grew, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association.

                          Weekslong lockups of European tourists at US borders spark fears of traveling to America

                          Weekslong lockups of European tourists at US borders spark fears of traveling to America

                          SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Lennon Tyler and her German fiance often took road trips to Mexico when he vacationed in the United States since it was only a day's drive from her home in Las Vegas, one of the perks of their long-distance relationship.

                          Think Tank

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                          Broken Trust: Managing an Unreliable Ally

                            Broken Trust: Managing an Unreliable Ally

                            The United States, under President Donald Trump, has become an unreliable partner. Its longstanding allies can no longer be confident that America will respect its commitments to come to their defence or respect its economic agreements. That is particularly true for Canada. This report identifies concrete measures to mitigate Canada’s risk of depending on an ally, trading partner, and neighbour...

                            Alberta Children’s Charter, a bold step in the right direction for youth transgender policy

                            Alberta Children’s Charter, a bold step in the right direction for youth transgender policy

                            Stéphane Sérafin and Geoffrey Sigalet explain why Alberta's laws on gender pronouns, early age transitioning, and access to girls' and women's sports are necessary to protect children and ensure the integrity of girls’ and women’s sports.


                            Substacks

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                            A collection of SubStack publishing within Canadian public affairs.

                            Mark Carney's $100 apology

                            Mark Carney's $100 apology

                            The 10 men who have governed the Bank of Canada since its inception in 1934 have been taciturn types, studiously avoiding the mud-holes of public controversy. Central banks trade in trust, and must project immutability and stability.That’s why it was so unusual in 2012 to hear Mark Carney, then governor of the Bank, apologize to Canadians for screwing up.

                            How the rich captured a Canadian prime minister: Part II

                            How the rich captured a Canadian prime minister: Part II

                            Peter Larkin launched King’s fund with $25,000 of his own cash, deposited Sept. 22, 1925 at the Old Colony Trust Co.’s main branch in Boston, the same firm used by Salada Tea for its U.S. operations. Likely he reasoned that a foreign account would reduce the risk of discovery.

                            Day 1 - They're off!

                            Day 1 - They're off!

                            Now that the election is called, time to riff from that part of my bio that says “campaign manager” and offer up regular assessments and analysis on what I think is going on. Check this space regularly for my campaign updates. You can judge my content for its value and biases on its own. But for the record, let me...

                            Podcasts

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                            Is the NDP about to get wiped out?

                              Is the NDP about to get wiped out?

                              As the Liberals ride strong, support for the NDP is collapsing. Most polls now show their support at less than 10 per cent — half of what it was just three months ago. Some data suggest they could lose three quarters of their seats in the house, and that they’re at risk of losing official party status. How did the...

                              Boxed out

                                Boxed out

                                Corey Hogan and Stephen Carter discuss whether the ballot question is set, if public criticisms of the Conservative campaign are sincerely well intentioned, and how Jagmeet Singh can get back into the game. Is affordability doomed to be just one bullet under a bigger issue called "Trump"? Can early public discussion about campaign challenges strengthen a campaign? And why is...

                                Everyone's On Edge

                                  Everyone's On Edge

                                  An update of the last few days on the campaign trail!

                                  Why is Poilievre losing his stronghold on Canadians?

                                    Why is Poilievre losing his stronghold on Canadians?

                                    Federal Conservative Party Leader, Pierre Poilievre, was positioned for a landslide win over the federal liberals, but incomes a new rival leader, and voters seem to have no problem moving the pendulum - and fast! Recent leaks from inside the campaign paint a chaotic picture for the federal tories just one month out from when Canadians head to the polls...