Power & Politics Power & Politics

Can Carney keep his majority as byelections and U.S. trade threats loom?

Aug 3, 2026 · 28m

Summary

The Power Panel discusses three upcoming federal by-elections, analyzing the competitive Quebec riding and the strategic implications for Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. The episode also examines NDP leader Avi Lewis’s decision not to run, debating the trade-offs between parliamentary visibility and national campaigning. Finally, the panel addresses escalating US-Canada trade tensions, focusing on President Trump’s tariff threats and the growing consensus for Canadian retaliation.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Modafinil for fatigue treatment Intro: Upcoming by-elections in BC, Toronto, and Quebec Panelists introduced; focus on competitive Quebec riding NDP leader Avi Lewis: To run or not to run? Liberals' strategy and candidate quality in by-elections Timing of elections and NDP leader visibility challenges Media relevance and the importance of parliamentary presence Conservative stakes in Quebec and Pierre Poilievre's leadership Cabinet shuffle timing and political calendar logistics Trump's threats to terminate USMCA trade deal Analyzing Trump's rhetoric vs. official trade negotiations Public fatigue with trade news and potential economic impact Risks of tariffs and US domestic political implications Canadian leverage and calls for retaliatory measures Consumer behavior: Buying local and boycotting US goods Conclusion: Trust issues with US deals and sign-off
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