PolitiCoast: The BC Politics Podcast

A familiar face returns, another is sticking around and one might need to find the door; and a bridge deal done Links Former B.C. Liberal MLA says centrist party is the answer for voters tired of ‘extremes’ | CBC News Is the province cutting SOGI funding in schools? The answer is complicated | CBC News Vancouver-Quilchena Recall Petition Unsuccessful | Elections BC Recall campaign against Vancouver-Quilchena MLA Dallas Brodie fails: Elections B.C. | CBC News Province would consider selling B.C. Place to Whitecaps: Kahlon The pipeline, the politics, the fallout: who’s up, who’s down after Alberta to B.C. project announcement – Angus Reid Institute Carney slammed over lack of Gordie Howe bridge opening deal details | CBC News Gordie Howe Bridge deal released as Conservatives accuse Carney of lying Proposed Agreement in Principle | Gordie Howe International Bridge 9 premiers to allow wineries, distilleries, breweries to sell directly to consumers across provinces | CBC News

A floor crosser, a Conservative party shakeup, and Eby inks a pipeline deal as Ontario burns. Links Penticton-Summerland MLA Amelia Boultbee joins the BC NDP – Castanet.net JONESIE: We need to talk about MLA Amelia Boultbee | iNFOnews.ca Kerry-Lynne Findlay Announces Shadow Cabinet | Conservative Party of British Columbia Veteran mediator Vince Ready to step in to try to end B.C. nurses’ dispute B.C. government may have no choice but to spend more to settle with nurses, experts say Minister’s statement on Squamish to 100 Mile rail corridor U.S. company believes it can provide rail service between Squamish and 100 Mile House as CN pulls out | CBC News North Coast oil tanker ban being upheld, Port of Vancouver expanding in multibillion-dollar B.C.-Ottawa deal | CBC News Canada and British Columbia strike new cooperative prosperity partnership to build a stronger, more sustainable economy Alberta will provide oilsands producers with incentives to fill proposed West Coast pipeline  Alberta-Ontario pipeline proposal faces criticism over costs, need and lack of Indigenous consultation | CBC News Federal government refers Port of Vancouver strategy to Major Projects Office | CBC News Backgrounder: Port of Vancouver Gateway Strategy – Canada.ca Conservatives lose another MP as Carney appoints Martel to the Senate Carney appoints one of his top advisers and a Conservative MP to Senate | CBC News Carney may name more Conservative senators to beef up ranks, says Liberal Senate representative NDP Leader Avi Lewis rules out running in upcoming byelections | CBC News Conservative Party had $85M in revenue but ended 2025 with a $14M deficit | CBC News The Conservative flogging will continue until morale improves – The Hill Times LILLEY: Does Pierre Poilievre actually want to be prime minister? Conservative infighting

Eby and Carney face blowback over their plans to buy condos and the PM might be getting a new home. Links Highway linking Vancouver to Prince Rupert proposed by construction company | CBC News The Long Quest to Merge Victoria and Saanich Hits a Roadblock | The Tyee Critics blast government plan to ‘bail out’ sagging condo sector in B.C. | CBC News Carney-Eby housing deal met with mixed reactions and desire for more detail Premier Eby on B.C. condo purchase proposal: ‘We don’t have to do it’ Carney announcing decision on future of 24 Sussex in coming weeks: sources | CBC News Carney to announce fundraising campaign, design competition to restore 24 Sussex: source | CBC News Feds push to have 3 northern projects fast-tracked under Building Canada Act | CBC News Federal plan aims to boost nuclear sector with up to 10 new reactors, expand international footprint – The Globe and Mail Nuclear Energy Strategy for Canada Scheduling note: we will be on hiatus for one to two weeks, starting next week.

BC needs more power, so the government is considering dams at Site E and Bute Inlet. Plus Carney comes to town with a big cheque for housing, hospitals and transit. Links Province ‘seriously’ considering 4th hydro dam in northeast B.C., plus one on Sunshine Coast: minister | CBC News B.C. Hydro cancels plan to phase out gas-powered generation as electricity gap looms Province nixes deal with contractor on George Massey Tunnel replacement | CBC News Massey Tunnel replacement could cost as much as $11 billion, local official says Adviser makes recommendations to help the district increase its housing supply Canada and British Columbia forge new partnership to accelerate homebuilding, lower costs, and build new local infrastructure Ottawa, B.C. to spend $3.2-billion to cut homebuilding fees and convert unsold condos – The Globe and Mail Ottawa should ‘indefinitely exclude’ people with mental illness from MAID: committee report Committee Report (PDF) Conservatives blast Liberals for trying to ‘ram’ controversial lawful access bill through House | CBC News MPs break for summer after passing motion to advance several bills – The Globe and Mail Opposition parties up in arms as Liberals use majority to speed up legislation before summer | CBC News Liberals tout 21 bills passing House of Commons this year as MPs break for summer | CBC News Public Safety Minister makes changes to lawful access bill – The Globe and Mail

Polls aren’t good for David Eby, centrists think it’s time for a return, Carney wants to ban kids from social media and the Greens kick off their leadership race. Links Surging Conservatives Tie New Democrats in British Columbia – Research Co. BC Conservatives Take Narrow Lead as Housing Costs, Health Care, and the Economy Shape Voter Priorities Premiers’ Performance: Eby, Smith, and Ford each tumble to new lows approval – Angus Reid Institute B.C. centrists seek to revive provincial Liberal brand in wake of Conservative leadership race – The Globe and Mail Vaughn Palmer: Activist Chris Delaney joins Kerry-Lynne Findlay’s Conservative team New drivers in B.C. can now take first knowledge test online B.C. knowledge test for learner drivers moved to online and at home – The Globe and Mail   Premier David Eby re-commits promise to end ‘no pet’ rental clauses | Surrey Now-Leader B.C. restaurants can buy alcohol from private liquor stores – Business in Vancouver Ottawa planning social media ban for users under 16 – The Globe and Mail Ottawa moves to restrict social media for kids under 16 | CBC News C-34 (45-1) – LEGISinfo – Parliament of Canada Quebec would withdraw from high-speed rail project if PQ forms next government, party leader says | CBC News Green Party of Canada begins search for Elizabeth May’s replacement | CBC News Leadership Race 2026 – Green Party Of Canada

Kerry-Lynne Findlay is the new leader of the official opposition, we learn how much FIFA will cost and Carney goes in on AI and out on taxing Netflix and changing environmental assessment laws. Links Kerry-Lynne Findlay elected new leader of B.C. Conservatives | CBC https://conservativebc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-05-30-Conservative-Party-of-BC-Leadership-Results.pdf B.C. MLA Jordan Kealy charged with sexual assault in Fort St. John | CBC News Province, Vancouver, PavCo update cost projections for FIFA World Cup 2026 Costs to host FIFA World Cup 2026 in BC $685M to $729M – Business in Vancouver FIFA releases thousands of Vancouver hotel rooms ahead of 2026 World Cup, but prices may not drop | CBC News Prime Minister Carney launches AI for All: Canada’s new national artificial intelligence strategy Overview of Canada’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy: AI for All AI for All, Details to Follow: Government Releases a Big-Spending AI Strategy That Is Still Short on the Specifics That Matter – Michael Geist Carney government presses pause on new environmental-assessment legislation – The Globe and Mail After ‘feedback from thousands,’ Carney government slows down sweeping environmental changes | CBC News Government of Canada announces immediate support to strengthen Canadian culture and ensure Canadian content remains affordable – Canada.ca

The legislature goes on summer break but not before the government concedes its case against the fired Victoria School Trustees or the Yaletown overdose prevention site. Canada makes a deal to sell LNG to Germany, and Guilebeault calls it quits eventually. Note: If we said something about age limits for FHSAs, we didn’t. You heard wrong. Links End of spring session Shannon breaks down bill 9’s passage Who voted for K’omoks treaty Firefighter’s health act Opposition MLA’s bill set to make dashcams mandatory for commercial trucks in B.C. | CBC News M-245 Minister’s statement on School District 61 judicial review SD 61 trustees reinstated, Province concedes court case Overdose prevention site in Vancouver’s Yaletown not reopening: minister | CBC News Minister’s statement on life-saving services in downtown Vancouver Canada reaches ‘milestone’ deal to sell LNG from Ksi Lisims project to Germany | CBC  Steven Guilbeault, who quit over climate policy, says return under different PM possible 14 Liberal MPs pen letter to Carney raising concerns over environmental backslide | CBC News Ottawa plans amendments to lawful-access bill amid backlash – The Globe and Mail Liberals to amend police data interception bill following searing criticism | CBC News Carney says House of Commons won’t weigh in on Alberta’s referendum question | CBC News Stephane Dion on the Clarity Act Avi Lewis on separation

We were going to talk about more things and then we spent 45 minutes on the BC Conservative leadership race, so enjoy the deep dive. Plus Carney gives Alberta a pipeline and they still plan to hold a referendum on whether to hold a separation referendum. Links 2026 Conservative Party of British Columbia leadership election – Wikipedia Iain Black Caroline Elliott Kerry-Lynne Findlay Yuri Fulmer Peter Milobar Kerry-Lynne Findlay facing federal election probe – Business in Vancouver B.C. names Site C dam after late premier John Horgan | CBC News Carney, Smith reach energy agreement that could see pipeline construction start in 2027 | CBC News Carney says the world is facing an ‘energy crisis’ and Canada must help solve it | CBC News Alberta government adds separation-related question to fall referendum

The first recall campaign kicks off, nurses vote to strike and Carney launches discussion papers. Links OneBC’s Vancouver-Quilchena MLA Dallas Brodie to face recall petition | CBC News Past petitions Recall Dallas Brodie Recall Tara Armstrong B.C. nurses union votes for strike action in landslide – The Globe and Mail BC Conservatives revoke Boultbee’s party membership | News | pentictonherald.ca Ottawa begins consultations on strategy to double Canada’s grid capacity by 2050 – The Globe and Mail Powering Canada Strong: A National Strategy for an Electrified Canadian Economy Ottawa proposes suite of measures to streamline project approvals, complete review process within 1 year | CBC News   Carney government planning changes to speed approvals for pipelines, resource projects | CBC News Ottawa suggests letting cabinet green-light pipelines before technical assessments happen – The Globe and Mail Althia Raj: Carney government proposal targets extinction protections for endangered killer whales off B.C. coast Getting Major Projects Built in Canada – Discussion Paper on Proposed Legislative, Regulatory, and Policy Reforms Carney government signals it’s open to selling Canadian ports Discussion paper: Strengthening One Canadian Economy through trade and transportation Carney says selling public assets like airports could fund infrastructure – National | Globalnews.ca Signal warns it would pull out of Canada if made to comply with lawful access bill – The Globe and Mail Facing mounting backlash, Anandasangaree says U.S. tech companies are ‘misinterpreting’ his lawful access bill | CBC News Canadian Armed Forces to put away the big guns, end avalanche management in Rogers Pass | CBC News

Pick your pollster, party fundraising, a legislative all-nighter, a new Governor General Links BC Politics: Still-leaderless BC Conservatives open 10-point lead over NDP amid DRIPA uncertainty B.C. Politics: NDP Holds Narrow Lead as Housing, Health Care, and Deficit Concerns Keep Pressure on Government, Leger Poll 2026 First Quarter Interim Financial Reports Available | Elections BC B.C. premier calls allegations that cabinet minister was target of investigation false – The Globe and Mail Politicians were up all night debating B.C.’s Bill 9. Why does it matter so much? | CBC News Minister’s statement about amendments to Bill 9 Supporting students in Tumbler Ridge with new secondary school Tumbler Ridge Secondary School will be demolished and rebuilt after mass shooting, province says | CBC News Louise Arbour to be installed Canada’s next governor general June 8 | CBC News Canada and Europe should get ‘creative’ in forging closer ties, EU ambassador says | CBC News ‘I would be very pleased’: PM Carney invited to address European Parliament Canada to be first non-European nation at EPC summit as Carney seeks allies Pension funds should invest more in Canada, Senate finance committee chair says – The Globe and Mail

Stormy seas in BC as the White Caps might leave, new hospitals are canceled. And in Ottawa Carney announces something called a sovereign wealth fund. Links: Formal offer made to relocate Vancouver Whitecaps to Las Vegas: report | CBC News Rob Shaw: B.C. wrestles with the rising cost of FIFA World Cup, as Whitecaps also ask for support Province cancels Burnaby Hospital agreement – Freshet News B.C. cancels contracts for delayed long-term care facilities, hospital expansion, amid growing uncertainty | CBC News ‘Left with half of our hospital’: B.C. gov’t cancels contract for Phase 2 of Burnaby Hospital redevelopment Court shoots down lawsuit over B.C. legal profession regulatory overhaul | CBC News Spring Economic Update 2026 – Canada.ca  Ottawa’s economic update to show lower projected deficits, source says – The Globe and Mail With $6-billion boost, Ottawa hopes to shore up labour force for its building agenda – The Globe and Mail Ottawa draws mixed reviews with new sovereign wealth fund to finance major projects – The Globe and Mail Liberals eye capital from airports, other assets to grow sovereign wealth fund – The Globe and Mail Carney government eyes privatizing airports to attract investment, cut travel costs Changes to disability tax credit broadly welcomed by opposition, advocates | CBC News New PBO says economic update lacks details on targets, results | CBC News State of 24 Sussex ‘an embarrassment,’ says Carney | CBC News ‘The door was closed on our province’: Feds not offering pharmacare to N.L., says health minister | CBC News Canada selected to headquarter new multinational defence bank, sources say | CBC News Carney names former minister Jonathan Wilkinson as next EU envoy | CBC News Quebec MP Alexandre Boulerice officially quits NDP to run provincially for Québec Solidaire | CBC News

Eby changes his DRIPA plans again, and Carney gets his majority Links NDP government to pause DRIPA amendments amid caucus divisions | CBC News Vaughn Palmer: B.C. premier upset courts accepted his use of the word ‘must’ The problem with DRIPA isn’t the courts. It’s the Premier. – Khelsilem B.C. tables legislation to ratify Kitselas First Nation Treaty as neighbouring nation calls for pause | CBC News B.C. to implement K’ómoks treaty despite opposition from neighbouring First Nation | CBC News Number of candidates running for leader of B.C. Conservatives has shrunk to 5 B.C. Conservative MLA’s bill on firefighter health passes | CBC News   Mark Carney enters his majority era | CBC News Conservative MPs publicly back Poilievre as leader even after recent stumbles | CBC News House governing body reinstates NDP parliamentary funding Liberal party adopts motion to restrict kids from social media ‘Our goal is AI for all,’ Carney says in Liberal convention speech | CBC.ca Ottawa ‘very seriously’ considering age restrictions for social media, AI chatbots | CBC News Sorry that we were late on this one, we both completely blanked for a couple days there

Elections BC slaps BC United with a fine for election disinformation over the ‘Fire John Rustad’ campaign from August 2024. The BC Conservatives slap Peter Milobar with a fine for a late deposit. And the NDP kills George Anderson’s private members bill but does take some steps toward allowing more housing. Federally, Marilyn Gladu embraces the red and the finance minister continues Canada’s oldest tradition. Links Elections BC Letter to BC United BC United was secretly behind website calling for Rustad to be fired: Elections BC Rustad says ‘dirty trick’ by B.C. United may have cost Conservatives election victory | CBC News B.C. Conservative leadership candidate fined for day-late payment of $40K fee Peter Milobar response to fine Elections BC Annual reports Minister’s statement on private member’s bill M216 B.C. orders West Vancouver to build more homes Premier hints at approval of Kelowna’s bid for early opt-out of short-term rental restrictions – Castanet.net Former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu crosses floor to Liberals | CBC News Carney says Liberal values are unchanged after socially conservative MP Marilyn Gladu joins party – The Globe and Mail Marilyn Gladu says she’s pro-choice, anti conversion therapy as Liberals embrace former Conservative | CBC News Floor-crossers support core Liberal values, Carney says | CBC News ‘Throw them out’ of Parliament: Poilievre in favour of recall petition for floor-crossers | CBC News Up to 40 Conservative MPs fear Pierre Poilievre will cost them their seats, insiders say + rumours of 10 more crossers  Pierre Poilievre’s communications director Katy Merrifield resigns How rare is it for a prime minister to attract 5 floor-crossers in 5 months? | CBC News ‘No risk’ of potential conflict with Champagne’s partner working for Alto: ethics commissioner

New bills, new leaders and controversial trains. Links Bill 14 – Forests Statutes Amendment BC Timber Sales to increase fibre access, strengthen long-term forest outcomes, protect jobs Bill 15 – Environmental Assessment Amendment Amendments improve dispute resolution, transparency, process predictability Bill 16 – Misc Statutes Amendment Modernizing enforcement, housing, justice tools Modernizing bylaw enforcement on the University Endowment Lands Updating zero-emission vehicle targets, expanding charging network Readying B.C. to deliver more homes for people in communities Adding new tools to help target organized crime Bill 17 – Municipal Codes of Conduct Improving conduct standards for local governments Bill 18 – Municipal Parental Leave Introducing parental leave for local elected officials Premier Eby says changing DRIPA is ‘non-negotiable’ and will be pushed into law – Business in Vancouver B.C. tells First Nations it wants to suspend DRIPA Adam Olsen – Eby Sent the Wrong Signals on DRIPA Amendments | The Tyee How did B.C.’s historic Indigenous Rights law, DRIPA, become so controversial? | The Narwhal Annual Report – Declaration Act https://bsky.app/profile/sobittersosweet.bsky.social/post/3mik2qbpqic2z Report on Provincial Taxation Revenues: Speculation and Vacancy Tax Audit Reveals Major Problems in BC’s Speculation and Vacancy Tax | The Tyee Time to Kill the Speculation and Vacancy Tax, Say BC Conservatives | The Tyee Peter MacKay endorsement Independent MLA for Peace River North endorses Findlay in leadership race, could rejoin BC Conservatives – CJDC-TV Jason Kenney endorse Elliott Darrell Joins endorses Caroline Elliott Yuri Fulmer and Dallas Brodie announce “Unite the Right Accord” Rob Shaw: Questions linger over integrity of BC Conservative leadership race Avi Lewis elected Leader of NDP Reactions Naheed Nenshi Carla Beck David Eby Mark Carney How the NDP leadership vote broke down, ballot by ballot Vaughn Palmer: B.C. Conservatives challenge NDP to disavow Avi Lewis on LNG Farewell to one of Canada’s greatest social justice champions Conservatives and the Bloc opposing Alto Rail Polling from Abacus and AltNO

Who’s up, who’s down and who’s out of the BC Conservatives, the Strong and Free Elections Act and the Auditor General attacks the government once more Links BC Leadership Poll: Milobar and Elliott down to the wire B.C. MLA Hon Chan charged with assault and choking, kicked out of Conservative caucus | CBC News B.C. NDP government fires back after Greens accuse AI minister of conflict over investments | CBC News Green MLA Valeriote Disclosure Heritage conservation engagement leads to updated proposals to make the act work better for everyone Montreal-area byelection to use write-in ballots due to dozens of protest candidates | CBC News Ottawa proposes amendments to Elections Act to counter long-ballot protests – The Globe and Mail Liberal government targets deepfakes, foreign interference in major election law reforms | CBC News Government Bill (House of Commons) C-25 (45-1) – First Reading – Strong and Free Elections Act International Student Program Reforms – Canada.ca Auditor-General flags weaknesses in IRCC’s anti-fraud controls for international student program – The Globe and Mail Modernizing the Pay System – Canada.ca Replacing Phoenix pay system will cost at least $4.2-billion, Auditor-General report says – The Globe and Mail Recruiting for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police – Canada.ca RCMP failed to recruit enough officers to meet operational needs: auditor general | CBC News

Conservative leadership contestants drop out, CentreBC launches its own race and questions remain about Eby’s leadership and the fed NDP race comes to an end Links Harman Bhangu is out Bruce Banman is out Seven candidates still in B.C. Conservative leadership race after two MLAs drop out – Business in Vancouver Karin Kirkpatrick is out CentreBC Prepares for First AGM, Leadership Change, and Next Phase of Growth Leader’s Statement: Create thousands of jobs and connect our communities through passenger rail All aboard the train to Whistler or Campbell River? B.C. Green leader proposes province-wide rail network Mountain Valley Express Provincial Support for the Village of Lytton’s Wildfire Recovery – Office of the Auditor General B.C. BC’s Auditor General Offers Reasons for the Lack of Rebuilding in Lytton | The Tyee Premiers’ Performance: Eby falls to a new low in B.C., while Kinew continues his comfort atop the list – Angus Reid Institute From Collapse to Dominance « EKOS Politics Front-Runners Emerge in the NDP Leadership Race | The Tyee Avi Lewis stands by past activism as he’s criticized for ‘politics of subtraction’ | CBC News NDP leadership hopeful rebuffed opponent’s offer of second-ballot support

BC wants to put limits on protests, and Carney gets another floor crosser as he stumbles his way to yet another position on Iran. Jesse Woodward from CHLY guest cohosts. Links:         Protecting access to places of worship, schools BC Humanists: Religious bubble zone law threatens fundamental freedoms Professional Employees Association reaches deal with B.C. gov’t after lengthy labour dispute | CBC News Idlout says she felt she was ‘betraying’ her constituents by staying with NDP Don Davies’ Statement Posted to Twitter  Carney calls byelections in Quebec riding of Terrebonne, 2 Toronto ridings | CBC News The Canadian government is deciding who’s a journalist now – The Hub Canadian government backtracks on using media subsidy criteria as accreditation Canada will ‘never participate’ in Iran offensive, Mark Carney says

David Eby kills time changes, the feds sign a deal with the Musqueam and Carney dithers on Iran and foreign interference Links Adopting permanent daylight saving time Most of B.C. to adopt daylight saving time permanently, Eby says – The Globe and Mail B.C. cities can set their own time zones, province says | CBC News B.C. teachers ratify new 4-year agreement with 3% annual wage boost | CBC News BC teachers ratify new four-year agreement šxʷq̓ʷal̕təl̕tən – A Rights Recognition Agreement Fact File: What the Musqueam agreements mean for private property owners in B.C. Rob Shaw: Eby’s Musqueam denial unravels after Ottawa insists B.C. was briefed Nine candidates make the cut in the race for the leadership of B.C. Conservatives | CBC https://x.com/Conservative_BC/status/2027849001853182033?s=20 Low Name Recognition for Leadership Hopefuls in British Columbia – Research Co. Improving complaint process for employers, workers New B.C. legislation cracks down on weapons, violence in supportive housing Strengthening health and safety in supportive housing Bill 11 Kelowna MLA wants to cut welfare to drug offenders until they go to rehab – Castanet.net Feb 28 Statement by Prime Minister Carney and Minister Anand on the situation in the Middle East Mar 3 Statement by Prime Minister Carney on the evolving situation in the Middle East Liberal MPs to hold call Friday as caucus raises concerns about Carney’s shifting Iran position | CBC News Around 2,000 Canadians looking for help leaving Middle East as U.S., Israel move to ‘next phase’ of Iran war | CBC Attack on Iran: Little consensus among Canadians as half oppose, one-in-three support the US-Israeli strikes Canada could be called on to help defend Gulf states, says top military commander | CBC News Carney signs deals worth billions in diplomatic breakthrough with India’s Modi | CBC News Canada, India sign ‘landmark’ energy deal as CSIS says foreign interference concerns unchanged Carney won’t say if there’s Indian interference in Canada after cutting deals with Modi | CBC News

The BC Conservative race tightens up with candidates dropping out and MLA endorsements racking up. The NDP are under fire for policy changes. The federal government might be fine with some light foreign interference. And the Conservatives get an amendment to the budget. Links Steve Kooner out Prince George-North Cariboo MLA Sheldon Clare ends bid for BC Conservative leadership BC Conservative leadership race: Peter Milobar gets caucus endorsements | Vancouver Sun Federal Tories move to limit use of party data in B.C. Conservative leadership race – The Globe and Mail Kelowna MLA’s bill to repeal BC Human Rights Code quickly voted down – Castanet.net Streamlining government’s response to organized crime Improving digital service delivery with FOIPPA amendments Vaughn Palmer: NDP set to weaken B.C.’s FOI law and keep public in the dark   B.C. policy change on billing could limit health-care access – Business in Vancouver $10-a-day daycare program paused in order to stabilize, B.C. government says | Globalnews.ca B.C.’s $10-a-day child-care program pauses controversial funding model, but service remains out of reach for many B.C. premier says Senate committee wants to gut bill that could close loopholes for extortion suspects | CBC News Where is Canada’s immigration minister? Community groups are asking | CBC News Canadian police warn Sikh activist of threat to life as Carney announces India visit | Globalnews.ca Minister says there’s ‘a lot more work to do’ with India after Canadian official says it’s no longer a threat | CBC News PM urged to clarify whether he believes India still carrying out interference in Canada – The Globe and Mail Poilievre targets Trump, urges Canada to focus on what it can control in major speech | CBC News Liberals accept Conservative budget amendments on ‘regulatory sandboxes’ Liberals’ omnibus budget bill passes final hurdle in the House of Commons | CBC News

A new provincial budget, an NDP debate, and a few more seats change hands federally. Links BC Budget  Vaughn Palmer: NDP quietly abolishes watchdog on civil service appointments  Reinforcing B.C.’s leadership in interprovincial trade New legislation will allow people to renew, replace driver’s licence online New legislation will strengthen oversight of international education John Rustad bows out Harman Bhangu is in Pallas Data poll Supreme Court invalidates result from spring federal election in Terrebonne riding MP Matt Jeneroux leaves Conservatives to join Liberals, citing ‘national unity crisis’ | CBC News Prime Minister Carney launches Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy to strengthen security, create prosperity, and reinforce strategic autonomy Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy

A sombre reflection takes the place of the throne speech as BC prepares for budget 2026 and Carney may or may not be gearing up for an election. Links Tumbler Ridge PAC GoFundMe for victims’ family Throne speech pays tribute to the people of Tumbler Ridge Eby says 2,000 public service jobs cut and counting as B.C. faces $11.2B deficit | CBC News Supporting children, youth with disabilities with new programs, more funding Leader’s Statement: BC Greens Will Not Renew CARGA Carney, Ford discussed idea of an early federal election to secure majority, sources say – The Globe and Mail Conservatives, Liberals in behind-the-scenes negotiations as PM downplays election talk | CBC News Conservatives propose helping Liberals pass BIA if they remove sections allowing ministers to ‘ignore certain laws and regulations’ – iPolitics Canada discreetly puts money down on 14 additional F-35s | CBC News

More and more and more names for the BC Con leadership, while Poilievre survives his vote. And an AI consultation summary delivered to us by AI. Links Steve Kooner for BC Conservative Leader Abbotsford South MLA Bruce Banman to run for Conservative leadership Bruce Banman John Rustad considering a run for leadership 2025 Fourth Quarter Interim Financial Reports Available | Elections BC BC Conservative leader candidate eyes 10-lane George Massey bridge project revival | Urbanized BC Greens Announce the Resignation of Deputy Leader Dr. Lisa Gunderson Conservative leadership vote 2026 results: Poilievre easily passes leadership test, receives 87.4 per cent support The Conservative Party is overhauling its policy playbook. Here’s what’s changing | CBC News Bail-reform bill moves to Senate after co-operation deal with Conservatives – The Globe and Mail At portrait unveiling, Harper says Canadians must make sacrifices to preserve independence – The Globe and Mail Stephen Harper nude painting sold to Vancouver man for $20K | CBC News Weekly Writ 2/5: Conservatives and Liberals set fundraising records in 2025 Avi Lewis has wide lead in NDP leadership fundraising New federal grocery rebate will cost $12.4 billion, PBO estimates | CBC News Government tables bill giving Build Canada Homes power to acquisition land | CBC News How one defection to Mark Carney’s Liberals set off a political earthquake at Queen’s Park When it comes to Ontario, I’m all in. – Nate Erskine-Smith  Eric Lombardi, More Neighbours Toronto founder considering a run An Illusion of Consensus: What the Government Isn’t Saying About the Results of its AI Consultation – Michael Geist

The BC Conservative leadership race heats up as the federal NDP membership deadline passes (and one more candidate is rejected). David Eby tries some firey rhetoric, while Carney upsets Quebec with his. And camping is getting more expensive. Links Darrell Jones is in Jones on grocery prices Kerry-Lynne Findlay is in Yuri Fulmer goes after Caroline Elliott’s Liberal donations Post by @davidebybc.bsky.social – “Treason” B.C. premier says Alberta separatists seeking assistance from U.S. is ‘treason’ | CBC News B.C. attorney general warns against doing deals with ICE, amid pending Pattison sale B.C. extortion wave is ‘terror attack in slow motion’: Eby Western provinces and territories sign pact to develop critical minerals strategy | CBC News B.C. Premier basks in mining expansions as sector proves to be important ally for NDP government – The Globe and Mail Camping fees updated to further invest in parks and recreation Prime Minister Carney announces new measures to make groceries and other essentials more affordable for Canadians Carney stands by Plains of Abraham speech that rankled Quebec’s political class Carney cancels news conference appearance last minute after Quebec City cabinet retreat | CBC Former B.C. chief electoral officer tapped to head Foreign Influence Transparency Registry – The Globe and Mail Poilievre courts delegates as he faces a must-win leadership review vote | CBC News NDP blocks Yves Engler’s wife, Bianca Mugyenyi, from leadership race – The Globe and Mail

British Columbia is delaying changes to the Heritage Conservation Act pending further consultations. Extortion may or may not be a crisis in Surrey. The BC Conservatives will pick their leader by May 30. Mark Carney gets praise for his Davos speech as he inks a new deal with China. Image credit: World Economic Forum Links B.C. postponing changes to heritage act to increase consultation, says minister – Richmond News Heritage Conservation Act changes further delayed over concerns it could halt development Eby says head of extortion task force needs to demonstrate urgency or step aside – BC | Globalnews.ca B.C. anti-extortion chief sorry for disputing blackmail ‘crisis’ after criticism from Premier – The Globe and Mail https://globalnews.ca/news/11572311/extortion-suspects-claim-refugee-status-cbsa/ Trudeau’s use of Emergencies Act to clear convoy protests unjustified, appeal court rules – The Globe and Mail LEADERSHIP Rules 2026 | Conservative Party of British Columbia  Darrell Jones announces Mark Carney earned a rare standing ovation in Davos. Read the full text of his speech here ‘The old order is not coming back,’ Carney says in provocative speech at Davos | CBC News Poilievre calls Carney’s Davos speech ‘well-crafted,’ but says action must follow | CBC News Response From The Honourable Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition, to the Prime Minister’s Speech in Davos – Conservative Party of Canada Trump says he’s withdrawing invitation for Carney to join his Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ | CBC News Prime Minister Carney forges new strategic partnership with the People’s Republic of China focused on energy, agri-food, and trade Federal government asked court to set aside Ottawa’s shutdown order for TikTok Canada

More BC Conservative leadership candidates enter, BC Green leadership candidates fundraising, Centre BC leadership drama and Carney goes to China Links Former B.C. Liberal minister Iain Black enters B.C. Conservative leadership race | Maple Ridge News Reconciliation critic Caroline Elliott seeks to head BC Conservatives | Vancouver Sun ‘I’m in’: Caroline Elliott confirms run for B.C. Conservative leadership – Richmond News 2025 BC Green Party Leadership Contestant Financing Reports Available | Elections BC Minister’s statement on status of the decriminalization pilot program Decriminalizing people who use drugs in B.C. (reports) – Province of British Columbia B.C. officially ends decriminalization pilot project after concerns about public drug use What Canada failed to learn from drug decriminalization in Portugal – Canadian Affairs Carney’s 1st day in China secures agreement on energy — but no tariff breakthrough yet | CBC News B.C. and feds sign lumber understanding with China, as province looks beyond U.S. | CBC News Slim Majority of Canadians (54%) Support Stronger Trade Ties with China | Ipsos Two Liberal MPs cut Taiwan trip short ahead of Carney’s China visit – The Globe and Mail Canada not considering a ban on X over deepfake controversy, AI minister says Musk’s Grok Is Abusing Women and Children. Our Government Needs to Act | The Tyee Why Canada’s reaction to the Grok scandal is so muted in the midst of a global outcry X ‘acting to comply with UK law’ after outcry over sexualised images | Grok AI | The Guardian NDP leadership candidate apologizes for using AI to respond to Reddit questions | CBC News r/ndp on Reddit: I’m Rob Ashton, union leader and candidate for Leader of the NDP — AMA I’m Tony McQuail and an NDP Leadership Candidate, AMA! : r/CanadaPolitics

We made predictions for 2025. They… weren’t great. So let’s make more for 2026, as difficult as that seems. Plus, OneBC fully imploded and kinda repaired itself over our break. We recap that and other political stories from the holidays. Links Eby’s approval rating Aaron Gunn out Kelowna MLA Gavin Dew won’t run for B.C. Conservative leadership, citing family B.C. Conservative Party forms committee to select new leader | CBC News Harman Bhangu says he will ‘most likely’ run for leadership of B.C. Conservatives – Energeticcity.ca Kamloops MLA Milobar considering run at B.C. Conservative leadership – CastanetKamloops.net B.C. Conservatives should welcome more people, Yuri Fulmer says, as he enters leadership race – The Globe and Mail Former grocery executive Darrell Jones considers run for B.C. Conservative leadership – Vancouver Is Awesome West Kootenay advocate ready to lead B.C. Conservative Party | Castlegar News OneBC ousts MLA Dallas Brodie as leader — but she says she’s fighting back | CBC News BREAKDOWN: The very public implosion of OneBC Who Is Othman Mekhloufi, the Far-Right Poster Behind OneBC’s Strife? | The Tyee Dallas Brodie back in control of OneBC as a party of one after almost 10 days of negotiations – Victoria Times Colonist Chrystia Freeland to step down as MP on Friday | CBC News Pilot phase of Liberal gun buyback program collects 25 firearms | CBC News

We speak with journalist Rod Mickleburgh about his new book

Who’s in/who’s out in the BC Conservative race. Eby promises to amend DRIPA as Conservatives call for a repeal. Federally, another MP crosses from the Liberals to the Conservatives, making Elizabeth May the kingmaker (for now). Yves Engler is rejected from the NDP leadership, Carney pitches ‘constitutional’ mandatory minimums as he snuck superpowered ministers into his budget bill. Links Rookie MP Aaron Gunn considers bid to lead BC Conservatives – The Globe and Mail Kerry-Lynne Findlay Christy Clark cryptic posts Former B.C. premier says Conservatives cannot be ‘kooky’ if they want to govern – Victoria Times Colonist   Sturko hasn’t ruled out B.C. Conservative return, bid for party leadership | Goldstream News Gazette Eby says DRIPA law could be amended after First Nations win appeal in mining case – Victoria Times Colonist B.C.’s Indigenous rights law is legally enforceable, rules court Eby accuses courts of jeopardizing B.C. economy, resource projects – The Globe and Mail Ontario MP Michael Ma crosses floor to Liberals, putting party one seat short of majority – The Globe and Mail NDP rejects Yves Engler as leadership candidate – The Globe and Mail Full correspondence via Yves EnglerCanada overhauls Criminal Code to protect victims and keep kids safe from predators What is in Bill C-16, Ottawa’s legislation that seeks to toughen gender-based violence laws? – The Globe and Mail Opinion | Mark Carney is quietly giving sweeping new powers to his ministers Canada Post commits to free postage for people who are blind as legislation changes  

John Rustad refuses to accept his firing before resigning to his fate. The Canada-Alberta pipeline MOU leaves BC and Coastal First Nations with little but the public is surprisingly warm to the idea. Stephen Guillbeault isn’t as he leaves cabinet, while his replacement is already stirring up controversy in Quebec. Links John Rustad officially steps down as leader of B.C. Conservatives | Vancouver Sun Rob Shaw: Behind the morning of manoeuvres that unravelled Rustad’s leadership Brad Zubyk out as opposition leader Chief of Staff Canada-Alberta Memorandum of Understanding Rob Shaw: Ottawa’s messaging for B.C. pipeline gets even more confusing National Backing High for Alberta–B.C. Pipeline, But B.C. Approval Remains Elusive B.C. premier open to new pipeline if tanker ban remains in place A Big Energy Deal with a Small Political Impact: What Canadians Really Think of the Canada–Alberta MOU Guilbeault resigns from cabinet over Carney’s energy deal with Alberta 2 top climate advisers quit saying Carney government is ignoring its experts | CBC News NDP leadership hopefuls say Guilbeault not welcome in their party after quitting cabinet Carney brings Trudeau-era minister back into cabinet, adds responsibilities to 2 others | CBC News Legault calls Miller a ‘disgrace to all Quebecers’ for his comments on French language | CBC News How a pipeline deal in Alberta somehow led to a language controversy in Quebec | CBC News

BC talks big for a small bill on the Mental Health Act. Drug users challenge their conviction. The legislature may take another crack at electoral reform. CleanBC is working but needs help as Carney and Smith come to a pipeline agreement. Links Province taking action to strengthen involuntary care, better support patients B.C. says Mental Health Act changes intended to help nurses, but critics concerned | CBC News Canada’s Drug Laws Face Challenge from Founders of Vancouver Compassion Club Rob Shaw: B.C. abandons compassion club it funded as founders face drug convictions A human rights-based approach to the toxic drug crisis Premier appoints new parliamentary secretaries for armed forces, primary care Democratic and Electoral Reform Committee Report CleanBC independent review B.C. LNG push threatens electricity supply: CleanBC review – Business in Vancouver Carney’s expected green light for oil pipeline causes unease in caucus and cabinet: sources | CBC News Carney and Smith to unveil energy deal in Calgary Thursday, source says – The Globe and Mail

David Eby gets a respectable 82% at his convention. More BC Conservative riding associations call out Rustad’s leadership, with one opting to cease operations. BC releases new economic targets while scrapping its EV goals. Pipeline politics renewed. And federally the Budget passes thanks to everyone but the Bloc. Links David Eby and BC NDP focused on working together and fighting for people at 2025 Convention Esquimalt-Colwood B.C. Conservatives end riding association – Victoria Times Colonist More riding associations call out Rustad Rustad in trouble Revolt within B.C. Conservatives swells against leader John Rustad | Nanaimo News Bulletin Procedural twist becoming common in B.C. legislature over provocative private member’s bill Elenore Sturko wants legislative amendment to change Interpretation Act | Surrey Now-Leader Delivering prosperity, good jobs for B.C., Canada Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada – Province of British Columbia Kirk LaPointe: The fault lines in B.C.’s ‘Go West’ economic plan – Victoria Times Colonist Provinces sign agreement to drop interprovincial trade barriers on goods except food, alcohol | CBC News Lifting trade barriers, making it easier to buy Canadian B.C. brings in measures to support EV adoption, auto sector, while awaiting federal decision B.C. backs proposal to increase capacity for Trans Mountain pipeline – The Globe and Mail Ottawa, Alberta close to deal that includes oil pipeline to B.C. coast, sources say – The Globe and Mail B.C Conservatives talking with Alberta on pipeline: Rustad Minority Liberals narrowly survive high-stakes confidence vote, fending off holiday election How the Conservatives helped pass Carney’s budget, avoiding an election | CBC News Freeland expected to work out of U.K. for new role as Rhodes Trust CEO – The Globe and Mail Chrystia Freeland tasked with tapping Canadian businesses to help rebuild Ukraine

David Eby hopes to keep his job at the BCNDP convention, Mark Carney unveils the next set of major projects and Yves Engler finally attempts to join the NDP leadership race. Links BC Rob Shaw: Eby working to shore up support ahead of leadership review Rob Shaw: BC NDP policy buffet features everything from free transit to ICBC pet insurance Canada Carney unveils major projects he wants fast-tracked, including new mines, LNG and hydro development | CBC News?  Projects referred to the MPO – Major Projects Office – Canada.ca Major Projects Office: Second tranche of projects under consideration – Canada.ca Prime Minister Carney announces second tranche of nation-building projects referred to the Major Projects Office Canadian military will rely on public servants to boost its ranks | Ottawa Citizen Top soldier has second thoughts about public servants in reserves | Ottawa Citizen Carney government reduces savings targets for some departments, agencies | Politics | thecanadianpressnews.ca Left-wing activist Yves Engler applies to join NDP leadership race – The Globe and Mail

Third quarter fundraising numbers aren’t enough to save John Rustad or the ostriches. While David Eby puts his elbows firmly down in the trade war. Federally, the Budget lands with a thud but the opposition parties helped it pass its first confidence tests. Links 2025 Third Quarter Interim Financial Reports Available | Elections BC  Letter from BC Conservative volunteers Hundreds of ostriches at B.C. farm to be killed after top court dismisses appeal to stop cull | CBC Marksmen complete cull at B.C. ostrich farm, CFIA says | CBC News B.C. won’t run ads targeting U.S. homeowners after Ontario backlash – The Globe and Mail Rob Shaw: Eby’s tariff task force ends in a shrug Budget 2025 – Canada.ca   We Expected Little in the Federal Budget on Housing. We Got Less Than Expected. Budget will scrap program to plant two billion trees, source says – The Globe and Mail NDP says abstention is an option on budget vote – The Globe and Mail NDP, Bloc will vote with government on first budget confidence vote Liberal budget clears second confidence hurdle as MPs head into break week | CBC News MP Chris d’Entremont crosses floor to Liberals – The Globe and Mail Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux denies coercion played a role in his resignation | CBC News Poilievre’s Conservatives struggling to stay united, source says, as Carney government survives a second budget vote Financial Returns of Registered Political Parties for the Third Quarter of 2025 Now Online Party supporters ‘tapped out’ as post-election donation dip deepens with Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter – The Hill Times

BC’s strike ends with agreement, Alberta’s with animosity. David Eby threatens an election and Mark Carney mulls the inevitability of one. Links Striking B.C. public service workers announce tentative deal with province | CBC News BCGEU says tentative agreement reached in historic strike | Globalnews.ca How an all-night mediation session sealed the tentative deal between BCGEU and province https://x.com/katiederosayyj/status/1983639248860541068?t=P7O51eDI34UB3ZAcuceebw&s=19 B.C. premier prepared to call early election if bill for North Coast Transmission Line voted down | CBC News ‘No real recovery’ for John Rustad amid dwindling support: Poll | Vancouver Sun https://leger360.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Media-Release-BC-Gov-Report-Card-Oct-2025.pdf Four psychiatrists in Vernon Jubilee Hospital tender resignation – Castanet.net B.C. Greens want to tie rent increases to units, not tenants – but face uphill battle | CBC News ‘Right now, we don’t have the votes’ to pass federal budget, says Liberal House leader | CBC News Conservative, NDP caucuses weighing a budget vote that could trigger an election: sources | CBC News Bloc Québécois candidate who lost by 1 vote loses bid to have result cancelled | CBC News MPs urge Carney government to release special agency governing documents | CBC News Carney saw Reagan anti-tariff ad before it aired, Ford says – The Globe and Mail Premier Eby says B.C.’s anti-tariff ads, aimed at Americans, will go ahead | Vancouver Sun Is it time Canada had its own space launch capability? The military thinks so ‘Forever Canadian’ petition surpasses goal ‘General strike if necessary’: Alberta unions declare intent to bring down UCP government | Globalnews.ca CBA Alberta Statement on the Use of the Notwithstanding Clause

John Rustad loses a caucus member and seemingly loses his senses. He refuses to resign as leader, even as his baord calls for his ouster. New bills come forward in the legislature and House of Commons touching on powerlines, employment standards and crime. But Pierre Poilievre is also facing rumours of dissension. All while Carney ties to position his upcoming budget. Links B.C. Conservative leader faces backlash over handling of MLA’s departure | CBC News John Rustad hunkers down, again, as party board tries to force him out | Vancouver Sun BC Conservative board letter B.C. MLA’s bill to prohibit land acknowledgements in schools fails 1st reading | CBC News CentreBC News Release – Northern Pipeline – FINAL – 251023.pdf CentreBC Backgrounder – Northern Pipeline – FINAL – 251023.pdf Five conditions secure coastal protection and economic benefits for all British Columbians New legislation powers economy with clean energy, North Coast Transmission Line New B.C. legislation promises power line to unlock northern development – The Globe and Mail British Columbia proposes new power rules for AI, data centres Job-protected medical leave lets workers return to work after serious illness   Education minister ordered to hand over documents related to termination of Greater Victoria School Board trustees Liberals table crime bill to restrict access to bail, impose tougher sentences C-14 (45-1) – LEGISinfo – Parliament of Canada   ‘Pressure will mount in the coming days’ for Pierre Poilievre as signs of discontent emerge within the party following his RCMP claims Poilievre backpedals on RCMP comments after days of pushback – The Globe and Mail I’m a former senior aide to Stephen Harper. Pierre Poilievre is dismantling the principled, trustworthy Conservative Party we tried to build Carney government ‘worried’ its budget won’t pass, triggering a federal election It will take ‘sacrifices’ and ‘some time’ to transform economy, Mark Carney says in pre-budget address to country

Mass resignations rock Kamloops hospital as a new medical school opens. Strikes continue, with BC’s ramping up as CUPW slows down. Federal parties position themselves ahead of the budget, trade is rocky and Canadians want to put nuclear reactors on the moon. Links Seven OB/GYNs at Kamloops hospital resign, citing unsafe workloads, lack of support – The Globe and Mail Applications open, permanent location secured for new SFU medical school B.C. government’s professional workers to expand strike after talks break down – Victoria Times Colonist BCGEU strike: Restaurant wishes they could purchase alcohol from private store next door | Globalnews.ca BC General Employees’ Union BCGEU escalates job action across the province You can expect to see some mail in your mailboxes again, but not on a regular schedule Opposition parties are pitching their own ideas ahead of Carney’s first budget | CBC News Demandes budgétaires du Bloc Québécois : Les moyens pour prendre soin de notre monde Conservatives Announce Youth Jobs Plan, Urge Liberals to Act in Upcoming Budget Automatic tax filing, affordability measures coming in budget, Carney previews Carney hints at easing corporate tax burden in budget – The Globe and Mail The Government’s New Budgeting Approach – PBO’s Initial Assessment   Anand ties India trade talks with restoring Canada’s full cohort of diplomats Ottawa threatens Stellantis with legal action over Brampton plant reversal | CBC News ‘Now is the time to talk’: Carney rules out hitting the U.S. with retaliatory tariffs | CBC News Canada eyes putting nuclear reactors on the moon | CBC News

A bevy of bills get introduced in the BC Legislature, Rustad’s caucus troubles continue and Carney changes his signature legislation. Links In John Rustad’s hunt for a leak, B.C. Conservative MLAs have their phones searched | CBC News  The NDP sets a trap. The B.C. Conservatives walk right into it | Vancouver Sun  B.C. bill that would have stopped puberty blockers defeated  White House talks ‘successful, positive, substantive,’ but no relief on steel just yet, says LeBlanc | CBC  Canada has been working for years to prepare for Golden Dome, Air Force general says – The Globe and Mail  Billionaire Chip Wilson fined $600 for unauthorized election sign targeting B.C. NDP | CBC News Elections BC Notice of Fine Fall federal budgets to become the norm, Champagne says – The Globe and MailLiberals in closed-door talks to boost NDP funding, claim it’s not related to upcoming budget vote Aspiring NDP leader who has raised thousands may be breaking party rules, official says  Yves Engler Fires Back at NDP CEO  Canadian residency, language provisions added to bill on citizenship by descent Conservatives want to end birthright citizenship for children of temporary residents   Public Safety Minister set to table new version of strong borders bill after slew of criticism – The Globe and Mail  Understanding Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, Bill C-12 BC Legislature Bills:  Bill 17 – Intimate images Stronger protections coming for people affected by intimate-image abuse  Bill 18 – Sexual violence policy Stronger measures will address sexual violence at post-secondary schools  Bill 19 – School Amendment (childcare) Province to remove barriers, make way for more child care at schools  Bill 20 – Construction prompt payment New legislation will ensure prompt payment in B.C.’s construction industry  Bill 21 – AG Statute amendments (2) Introduction of attorney general statutes amendment act (No. 2), 2025 Bill 22 – Statutes Act  Bill 23 – Regulations Act New legislation makes online versions of B.C. laws official (and 22) Bill 24 – Vaping damages New law will hold vape manufacturers accountable for public health costs Rob Shaw: B.C. introduces bill to sue vaping companies for health harms Bill 25 – Housing amendments Introduction of housing and municipal affairs statutes amendment act, 2025 Bill 26 – Vancouver Charter Amendments Vancouver residents will have say on park board’s future – Can save for Cambie report Bill 27 – Misc Statutes (2) New meeting rules will strengthen Indigenous, local government relations and Introduction of miscellaneous statutes amendment act (No. 2), 2025  Bill 28 – Business Practices & Consumer Protection Amendment Stronger tools coming to protect people from credit fraud  Bill 29 – Child, Family & Community Service Amendment Safety planning updated to better support children, families 

The BC Legislature returns on Monday and the NDP aren’t giving us much to be excited about. However, the BC Conservative meltdowns continue with a high profile firing. Alberta is pushing through a pipeline that no one is really asking for, Carney faces budget vote challenges. What constitutes terrorism in the government’s eyes? Apparently Irish rappers and Indian gangs. And the NDP race has some candidates now. Links NDP house leader says B.C. gov’t plans to pass 18 bills during fall session | CBC News Rustad Fires Lindsay Shepherd for Residential School Comments | The Tyee Rob Shaw: Local shipyards could have built some BC Ferries ships rather than China, says leaked report Alberta to draw up proposal for new oil pipeline to B.C. coast by May – The Globe and Mail David Eby response Blanchet says upcoming budget has ‘no legitimacy,’ Bloc unlikely to support it Davies meets with Carney as he calls on the Liberals to tackle ‘job crisis’ in upcoming budget – iPolitics Is Irish hip-hop trio Kneecap still banned from entering Canada? Were they ever? It’s unclear | CBC News Canada lists India’s Bishnoi Gang as terrorist entity – The Globe and Mail Ottawa launches Defence Investment Agency to streamline procurement – The Globe and Mail World’s first AI minister will eliminate corruption, says Albania’s PM ‘Eat the rich’: Rob Ashton joins race to lead federal NDP Edmonton MP Heather McPherson enters NDP leadership race | CBC News NDP leadership candidate McPherson stands by ‘purity test’ remarks after criticism from fellow MP Heather McPherson Avi Lewis for NDP Leader Rob Ashton Tanille Johnston Yves Engler for NDP Leader Tony McQuail Green Progressive 2026 Current leadership contestants – Elections Canada *

When it comes to leadership numbers, 70% is bad if you’re John Rustad but 60% is great if you’re Emily Lowan. Mark Carney is under fire for the gun buypack, recognition of Palestine and changes to Canada Post. Links John Rustad survives B.C. Conservative leadership review with 71% support | CBC News ‘No chains’: Elenore Sturko speaks out after ousting from B.C. Conservative caucus | CBC News Inside the BC Conservative Crisis | The Tyee Emily Lowan Elected Leader of the BC Green Party BC Greens elect Emily Lowan as new party leader Opposition leaders offer very different visions for B.C. at UBCM | CBC News OneBC interim leader in favour of defunding non-profits to incentivize recovery focus – Castanet.net   Supreme Court of Canada grants stay on ostrich cull Ostrich farmers hope for ‘miracle’ as CFIA moves to cull flock over avian flu Public safety minister’s ‘misguided’ comments in leaked audio undermined the Liberals’ gun buyback program, critics charge Carney government cancels plan to send buyback rifles to Ukraine after ‘extremely limited interest’ Statement by Prime Minister Carney on Canada’s recognition of the State of Palestine Feds to launch review of Canada Post as Crown corp. continues to face financial hurdles Liberal government frees Canada Post to end home delivery, close some post offices | CBC News Canada Post workers on nationwide strike after government demands reforms | CBC News   Photo credit: BC Green Party

Does foreign interference include the afterlife? Because dead people are signing up for the BC Conservatives, which really isn’t helping their reputation. Also Eby goes to Ottawa as our deficit climbs higher and higher. And in Ottawa, Carney shakes up our foreign affairs approach, launches a public sector builder and promises a new budget. But nothing ever changes with the Green Party of Canada. Links Rob Shaw: Phantom BC Conservatives cast shadow over Rustad’s leadership review – Business in Vancouver Allegations of fake sign-ups, ballot stuffing cloud B.C. Conservative leadership review | CBC News BC Conservatives treasurer resigns B.C. economy in strong position to weather global trade uncertainty B.C. budget deficit jumps to $11.6B, upward trend now expected to continue – Greater Victoria News Eby travels to Ottawa to lobby Carney for B.C. major projects funding Carney, Sheinbaum sign deal to deepen economic ties Mark Carney set to shake things up with diplomatic appointments, staff moves Former justice minister David Lametti to leave Prime Minister’s Office: sources | CBC News Freeland to serve as Canada’s special representative for Ukraine, exit cabinet – The Globe and Mail Build Canada Homes Prime Minister Carney launches Build Canada Homes to supercharge homebuilding across the country Carney allots $13-billion to build affordable housing under Build Canada Homes – The Globe and Mail Carney government to table first budget on Nov. 4 | CBC News May asks to stay on as Green leader after saying she would step aside – National | Globalnews.ca

Who’s afraid of foreign interference? Apparently the BC Green Party. Plus Mark Carney launches a tariff response and picks his first major projects. Links Verification woes cloud B.C. Green party’s leadership race – Business in Vancouver All eligible party members will be able to vote in leadership race: B.C. Greens – Mission City Record Kelowna conservative strategist behind AI news site targeting John Rustad | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan’s News Source Prime Minister Carney launches new measures to protect, build, and transform Canadian strategic industries Carney unveils billions in funding, Buy Canadian policy to combat Trump’s tariffs | CBC News Canada delaying plan to force automakers to hit EVs sales targets | CBC News Prime Minister Carney launches new measures to protect, build, and transform Canadian strategic industries Saskatchewan premier set to return from China trip this week Prime Minister Carney announces first projects to be reviewed by the new Major Projects Office Alberta premier says province is being heard by Carney Exclusive: Canada may drop oil emissions cap as part of new climate plan, sources say | Reuters Border security bill, budget could put Liberal minority government on the defensive this fall – iPolitics Conservatives will introduce a bail reform bill this fall, Poilievre says – The Globe and Mail Carney will introduce legislation next month to tighten bail system – The Globe and Mail

Ian’s back from vacation – and there’s politics to talk about. BCGEU goes on strike, Poilievre and Eby take aim at the temporary foreign worker program, Poilievre wants stand your ground laws, Carney opens his Major Project Offices and the NDP launch their leadership race. Links BCGEU says its members will begin walking picket lines Tuesday As BCGEU strike drags on, teachers’ union negotiations simmer in background | Globalnews.ca B.C. schools at funding ‘crunch point’ as districts cut millions from budgets | CBC News Poilievre calls on Liberals to scrap the temporary foreign worker program Ottawa must cancel or significantly reform temporary foreign worker program, says Eby Bryan Breguet v John Rustad on TFWs Youth unemployment is now at level seen ‘during a recession,’ report shows – National | Globalnews.ca Poilievre calls for more legal protection for Canadians defending homes from intruders | CBC News Prime Minister Carney launches new Major Projects Office to fast-track nation-building projects Internal PMO polls show huge support for major hydro, road, port projects – National | Globalnews.ca Project 2025 architect Kevin Roberts no longer attending cabinet forum – iPolitics Finance Minister announces 100-day plan to fix CRA service delays – The Globe and Mail NDP Leadership 2026 « Canada’s NDP Huron County farmer files application papers to lead federal NDP Heather McPherson, Avi Lewis prepare NDP leadership bids

Ben Woodfinden, former Communications Director for Pierre Poilievre comes on the pod to discuss the 2025 election and the state of Canadian conservativism. Links Ben Woodfinden’s Website Ben Woodfinden’s Twitter/X Ben Woodfinden’s Substack

We interview the candidates to lead the BC Green Party Emily Lowan, Adam Bremner-Akins and Jonathan. Find out why they are running and what their vision for the BC Green Party and the Province is.

Ryan Clayton joins the pod to discuss the BC Green Party leadership race and couple consequential court decisions.  Links Ryan’s Substack B.C. to appeal landmark Aboriginal title ruling over Fraser River land in Metro Vancouver | CBC News Major land claims ruling says B.C. Indigenous group has claim to a portion of city and port lands – The Globe and Mail Canada’s voting system is constitutional, Ontario Court of Appeal rules | CBC News

David Moscrop joins the pod to discuss 100 days of Carney. What does the three and a third months since the election tell us about what kind of PM Mark Carney is and what does it mean for the future of Canada. Links Carney suggests he’s considering rescinding Online News Act | National Post Write-in ballots to be used in Alberta byelection due to record number of candidates | CBC News David Moscrop’s Substack

A mining rescue operation, ultimatums for Oak Bay & West Van, an even bigger ballot and First Ministers meet. Links Rescue operation underway for 3 miners trapped underground at northern B.C. mine | CBC News Underground mine where workers trapped was on BC fast-track list | Canada’s National Observer: Climate News  Update (after recording): Rescued workers being reunited with families after 60 hours trapped in B.C. mine | CBC News Directives issued to get more homes built in Oak Bay, West Vancouver Drug body members quit after decision reversal on funding for treatment of girl with rare disease Data reveals dramatic spike in patients leaving B.C. emergency rooms without receiving care | CBC News MP wants passenger rail in B.C.’s Sea-to-Sky region as CN Rail pulls out | CBC News More than 100 candidates — most in Canadian history — to run against Poilievre in byelection | CBC News Poilievre calls for law to block long ballot protests that ‘abuse’ democracy Poilievre, Conservative MPs criticize Crown ahead of Freedom Convoy leaders’ sentencing | CBC News Toronto has 6 months to meet terms of housing agreement with Ottawa, minister says | CBC News Premiers push for more power over immigration as Ford takes aim at federal minister – The Globe and Mail After 2 days of trade talks, premiers wrap summit talking crime and health care | CBC News

A cabine shuffle, a drug decision flip-flop and Poilievre’s struggle for relevancy. Links Updated cabinet sworn in to meet the needs of British Columbians in a changing world  B.C. cuts Metro Vancouver developers a break from soaring fees, backstopped by $250 million in federal cash B.C. quietly expands scope of Bill 14 to include all future wind and solar – Terrace Standard B.C. improves HOV-lane access for EV drivers Health minister upholds decision to deny rare-disease funds for B.C. girl – The Globe and Mail B.C.’s premiere responds to experts on treatment for Langford’s Charleigh Pollock Rob Shaw – drug coverage restored Ontario Progressive Conservatives schedule convention for same time as Poilievre’s leadership review – The Globe and Mail Poilievre adviser Jenni Byrne staying on, Conservatives confirm amid speculation of ouster – The Globe and Mail Poilievre calls for ‘very hard caps’ on immigration to better integrate newcomers | CBC News Poilievre slams Carney over investment disclosure, says PM needs to sell assets | CBC News Money for nothing? Feds’ failure to condemn Toronto’s breach of housing deal ‘concerning,’ say critics – iPolitics Toronto sixplex policy ‘disappointing,’ Federal Housing Minister says – The Globe and Mail

The BC Greens are actually having a leadership race with (at least) three candidates. FIFA is disrupting the courts and future community events may need risk assessments. BC’s urgent infrastructure act is going to a year-long consultation process while the feds eye projects for their act. Carney caves on digital services taxes and Trump threatens tariffs anyway. The Battle River-Crowfoot byelection has been called and so has the federal NDP leadership race. Links BC Green Party Leadership Race 2025: A New Era Comox councillor steps forward as leadership candidate for B.C. Greens | Vancouver Sun Adam Bremner-Akins These are not normal times. Here in B.C., one-third of us can’t afford our bills. Rent and grocery prices are sky-high. Home-ownership and… | Instagram All criminal trials in four B.C. courts to be rescheduled during FIFA World Cup Report says all B.C. events should get risk review, in wake of Lapu-Lapu festival tragedy REPORT OF THE STUDY COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO COMMUNITY EVENTS SAFETY Engagement begins to support implementation of Infrastructure Projects Act Canada Canada rescinds digital services tax to advance trade discussions with the United States | CBC News Trump threatening 35% tariffs on Canadian goods across the board | CBC News Carney’s cabinet asked to find ‘ambitious savings’ ahead of fall budget | CBC News Carney says it’s ‘highly likely’ an oil pipeline makes project list | Calgary Herald Carney government’s nation-building projects list expected to draw from these five areas, says source Carney calls mid-August Alberta byelection, clearing Poilievre’s path to a new seat Liberal Party of Canada announces Darcy Spady as Liberal candidate for Battle River—Crowfoot Katherine Swampy Green Party’s Douglas Gook Launches By-Election Campaign with Focus on Local Empowerment  NDP plans to launch six-month leadership race, choose leader in March 2026 Heather McPherson Yves Engler for NDP Leader Tony McQuail Ruling Liberals Comfortably Ahead in Canada’s Political Scene – Research Co.   

The BC Conservatives didn’t mean to politicize “blackmail” accusations against their political rivals. The BCNDP and federal government face further criticism over the BC Ferries order. And (most) NATO allies commit to spending unseen amounts on military build-ups. (Sorry for the re-upload) Links Rustad wonders if he should have made ‘blackmail’ claim after Opposition caucus meets | CBC News Rustad says staff won’t give RCMP ‘blackmail’ statement as leadership vote begins – Richmond News Federal infrastructure bank provided $1-billion in loans for BC Ferries to buy Chinese-made ships – The Globe and Mail Tories call for hearing on $1-billion federal loan for BC Ferries’ purchase of Chinese vessels – The Globe and Mail FIFA World Cup hosting costs revealed by B.C. are up to $624 million | Vancouver Sun Senate passes controversial bill to fast-track major projects Bill C-5: Canadians support fast-tracking projects, but conflicted over individual elements of the legislation – Carney ready to dismiss top bureaucrats unable to meet his expectations, Liberal insiders say – The Globe and Mail The Hague Summit Declaration issued by NATO Heads of State and Government (2025), 25-Jun. Canada promises to spend 5% of GDP on defence by 2035 in pact with NATO leaders | CBC News NATO’s 5% benchmark would cost Canada $150B a year, Carney says | CBC News Canada signs deal deepening European defence and security partnership | CBC News Carney says Canada will meet new NATO spending target by developing critical minerals Ottawa considering military equipment production deal with Ukraine, Defence Minister says – The Globe and Mail NATO’s new villain: Spain – POLITICO