The House

150 years ago this month, the Indian Act became law — a sweeping piece of legislation that governed almost every aspect of First Nations’ lives — and has long been criticized as unfair, racist and “unquestionably sexist."On this special edition of The House, Catherine Cullen explores the history of the discriminatory legislation with Bob Joseph, author of 21 Things You Might Not Know about the Indian Act and Janice Makokis, an Indigenous Legal Rights Scholar and associate professor at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law. The program also looks at current attempts to reform the Indian Act through Bill S-2, an amendment that would allow status to pass on indefinitely to future generations — eliminating the "second-generation cut-off." Dawn Lavell-Harvard, former national president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, explains how it would impact her own family, and Kitigan Zibi’s Nick Ottawa explains why First Nations are concerned about an influx of new members without a recent connection to the community. Then columnist and professor Niigaan Sinclair weighs in on whether he thinks the bill will pass.  Plus, host Catherine Cullen speaks to Chief Councillor John Jack about how the Maa-nulth Treaty on Vancouver Island allowed Huu-ay-aht First Nation to literally burn a copy of the Indian Act fifteen years ago, and why he believes their modern treaty is a model for the future. Then, AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak adds a final thought on whether the Indian Act can be amended — or scrapped. This episode features the voices of:Bob Joseph, author of 21 Things You Might Not Know about the Indian ActJanice Makokis, Indigenous Legal Rights Scholar and associate professor at the University of Windsor Faculty of LawDawn Lavell-Harvard, former national president of the Native Women’s Association of CanadaChief Jean-Guy Whiteduck, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First NationNick Ottawa, Lands, Estates and Membership Administrator at Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First NationNiigaan Sinclair, professor of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba and columnist at the Winnipeg Free PressChief Councillor John Jack, Huu-ay-aht First Nations

Loyal Dippers are gathering in Winnipeg this weekend to decide their next leader — and the direction of the party. Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi joins The House to explain why he told frontrunners to not do anything that could affect his party's electoral fortunes. Then, political strategists Marci Surkes, Kate Harrison and Jordan Leichnitz weigh in on who the Liberals and Conservatives want to see win the race, and whether there could be an NDP rupture after the votes are tallied.And this week, Canada's top court heard arguments challenging Quebec's Bill 21 — a law that prevents some civil servants from wearing religious symbols at work. Quebec pre-emptively used the notwithstanding clause to shield the law from court challenges, and that is what has caught the attention of governments across the country. Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey breaks down why his province supports Quebec's use of the notwithstanding clause and how transformational the court's decision will be.Plus, as Middle East oil shipments dry up, Canadian officials are touting the country's stable supply at one of the world's biggest energy conferences in Texas. CBC Business reporter Kyle Bakx explains how energy executives are feeling right now amid deep uncertainty, and whether Canada's pitch is landing.This episode features the voices of:Naheed Nenshi, Alberta NDP LeaderMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseKate Harrison, Conservative strategist and vice chair at Summa StrategiesJordan Leichnitz, NDP strategist and Canada Director for the Friedrich Ebert FoundationDoug Downey, Ontario Attorney GeneralKyle Bakx, CBC Business reporter

In a marathon interview, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre discussed tariffs, 51st-state threats, mixed martial arts and kettlebells with popular and controversial podcast host Joe Rogan. Author Paul Wells and Globe and Mail senior reporter Stephanie Levitz break down Poilievre's performance and whether his appearance helps — or hurts — his push to reach more voters.Next, the federal government says it's ready to help ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz as the war in Iran continues and oil prices rise. Former Canadian envoy to Iran Dennis Horak and Middle East expert Thomas Juneau discuss what the government actually means to contribute — and what Ottawa is prepared to do over concerns about Iranian state officials living in Canada.Plus, for many Canadians, getting alcohol delivered from another province or territory right to their doorsteps is either expensive, or impossible. A Conservative bill wants to change that by allowing Canada Post to ship alcohol anywhere in the country. Chris Holler of Poplar Grove Winery in B.C. explains the shipping restrictions he faces, then Conservative MP Dan Albas, the author of the bill, explains why he believes his push will finally solve this trade barrier.Then, the number of people experiencing homelessness at emergency shelters in Canada is climbing — but not everywhere. Mike Lethby, executive director of The Raft youth shelter, and Sandra Clarkson, CEO of the Calgary Drop-in Centre, outline why their shelters are bucking the trend. This episode features the voices of:Stephanie Levitz, senior reporter for The Globe and MailPaul Wells, author and podcaster Dennis Horak, Former Canadian chargé d'affaires in IranThomas Juneau, former analyst at the Department of National DefenceChris Holler, vice-president of Poplar Grove WineryDan Albas, Conservative MP for Okanagan Lake West—South KelownaMike Lethby, executive director of The Raft youth shelterSandra Clarkson, president and CEO of the Calgary Drop-in Centre

After back-to-back-to-back successes in attracting Conservatives to join his team, Prime Minister Mark Carney has secured a fourth floor-crosser. And this time, it's from the NDP. Are more still to come? The House Party podcast team — Catherine Cullen, Daniel Thibeault and Jason Markusoff — reunite to talk about Carney's ability to lure MPs from all sides of the political spectrum. Then Liberal House Leader Steven MacKinnon defends the floor crossers and hints that more Conservatives may make the leap. Plus, as the war in the Middle East enters its third week, millions of people are displaced and an energy crisis is brewing. Former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg , now Norway's finance minister, joins The House to discuss Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Norway, whether the war in Iran will end up helping Russia, and what middle powers like Canada and Norway can do.And, after a series of shootings outside Toronto synagogues this week, the Liberal government's controversial hate-crimes bill is back in the spotlight. But there are still deep concerns from civil liberties groups and some religious organizations. Why is that? Host Catherine Cullen breaks down the Combatting Hate Act with the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs’ Noah Shack, Anaïs Bussières McNicoll of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, and Mustafa Farooq, former CEO of the National Council of Canadian Muslims. This episode features the voices of:Daniel Thibeault, parliamentary bureau chief for Radio-Canada and host of Les Coulisses du PouvoirJason Markusoff, CBC CalgarySteven MacKinnon, Liberal House leaderJens Stoltenberg, former secretary general of NATO and Norway's finance ministerNoah Shack, CEO of Centre for Israel and Jewish AffairsAnaïs Bussières McNicoll, director of the Fundamental Freedoms Program at the Canadian Civil Liberties AssociationMustafa Farooq, former CEO of the National Council of Canadian Muslims

More than a week has passed since Israel and the United States launched a massive attack on Iran — a move the prime minister says Canada supports "with regret." How does that stance square with the vision Carney laid out in Davos? Former Canadian ambassador to the United Nations Bob Rae weighs in on the Canadian view and shares concerns around how the conflict may end. Plus, tanker traffic in one of the world's key oil passageways in the Middle East has ground to a halt, leaving some countries calling on Canada to ramp up its energy exports. Liberal MP Corey Hogan, parliamentary secretary to the energy minister, explains what Ottawa is telling these eager nations; then Adam Chambers, the Conservatives' international trade critic, explains his party's vision to meet rising energy demands.Next, Mark Carney addressed Australia’s parliament this week, reiterating his theory that middle powers must work together as the international rules-based order crumbles around them. Former Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull joins The House to discuss how Carney's pitch is being received Down Under and how the two countries can work together in an increasingly uncertain world.Then, new data shows that almost half of Canadians polled are in favour of their country becoming a member state of the European Union — despite its physical distance from the continent. CBC’s Jennifer Chevalier hears the arguments for and against membership from the Global Governance Forum’s Augusto Lopez Claros, former deputy prime minister John Manley, trade expert Meredith Lilly, Canada-U.S. expert Fen Hampson and pollster David Coletto.This episode features the voices of:Bob Rae, former Canadian ambassador to the United NationsCorey Hogan, Liberal MP and parliamentary secretary to the energy ministerAdam Chambers, Conservative international trade criticMalcolm Turnbull, former prime minister of AustraliaAugusto Lopez Claros, executive director of the Global Governance ForumJohn Manley, former deputy prime minister under Jean ChrétienMeredith Lilley, international economic policy professor at Carleton UniversityFen Osler Hampson, co-chair of the Expert Group on Canada-U.S. RelationsDavid Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data

Two leaders, two visions, two itineraries. Prime Minister Mark Carney is once again travelling abroad to strengthen Canada's trading relationships with fellow middle powers like India, Japan and Australia. How much sway does Canada hold in this new geopolitical era? Anne-Marie Slaughter, former Obama-era senior U.S. State Department director, joins The House to weigh in on this middle-power moment.And Pierre Poilievre is headed to Europe in his first official overseas trip as Leader of the Opposition, following a speech that laid out the Conservative vision for tackling a protectionist United States. Political insiders Marci Surkes and Kate Harrison take a look at both big trips, and the stakes for both parties.Next: OpenAI was the focus of intense scrutiny this week after it was revealed the ChatGPT developer did not inform police about troubling content from an online account belonging to the Tumbler Ridge shooter. The House checks in with The Logic’s Murad Hemmadi about whether big tech companies can be trusted to regulate themselves.Then, as the world's youngest generations are set to bear the brunt of today's decisions, some governments around the world are taking steps to ensure they have a champion — and Canadian advocates want Ottawa to do the same. House producer Benjamin Lopez Steven speaks with Wales' Future Generations Commissioner Derek Walker, as well as Paul Kershaw of Generation Squeeze, Ontario Senator Rosemary Moodie and a classroom of Grade 8 students about whether the Welsh model could work in Canada.And as Russia’s war on Ukraine grinds on, and peace talks remain deadlocked, Canada’s Ambassador to Ukraine Natalka Cmoc speaks with guest host Tom Parry about a difficult winter in Kyiv and the horrors she’s heard on the ground from Ukrainians.This episode features the voices of:Anne-Marie Slaughter, CEO of think tank New America and former senior official at the U.S. State DepartmentMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseKate Harrison, Conservative strategist and vice chair at Summa StrategiesMurad Hemmadi, AI reporter for The LogicDerek Walker, Future Generations Commissioner for WalesKatie Richmyre, Grade 8 teacher at St. Mother Teresa High SchoolPaul Kershaw, founder of Generation SqueezeSenator Rosemary MoodieNatalka Cmoc, Canada's ambassador to Ukraine

Once again, Prime Minister Mark Carney has convinced a Conservative to cross the floor and join his Liberal Party — the third MP to do so in just a few months. And it comes as Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre tries to manage the fallout from a caucus member’s trip to Washington. The National Post's Stuart Thomson and the Globe and Mail's Shannon Proudfoot take a look at Poilievre’s mounting challenges and how close the Liberals may be to a majority.Plus, the U.S Supreme Court ruled this week that Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping emergency tariffs on trading partners, but the president says he won't back down. Brian Clow, former deputy chief of staff to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, joins Catherine Cullen to discuss whether the ruling will help — or hurt — Canada.Next, the government announced its long-awaited defence industrial strategy this week, with ambitious goals to boost exports, create 125,000 jobs and award 70 per cent of defence contracts to Canadian companies. But will it mean Canadian troops get the equipment they need? The House visits a local Ottawa defence tech company for their take; CBC’s senior defence writer Murray Brewster breaks down the government’s plans; and Secretary of State for Defence Procurement Stephen Fuhr discusses the road ahead.And New Democrats are entering the final stretch of their federal leadership race as five contenders took the stage in B.C. Thursday for one last candidates’ debate. Former NDP MPs Nathan Cullen and Matthew Green join The House to weigh in on their pitches, the tensions and the contrasting visions for a party hoping to build back after winning just seven seats in the last election.This episode features the voices of:Brian Clow, former deputy chief of staff to Prime Minister Justin TrudeauStuart Thomson, parliamentary bureau chief for the National PostShannon Proudfoot, feature writer for The Globe and MailMicah Grinstead, senior director of operations at CalianChris Pogue, president of defence and space at CalianMurray Brewster, CBC News’ senior defence correspondentStephen Fuhr, secretary of state for defence procurementNathan Cullen, former NDP MPMatthew Green, former NDP MP

The small community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C. is in mourning after an attack that left eight people dead, including children, an educator and the shooter's mother and half-brother.Conservative MP for northeastern B.C. Bob Zimmer speaks to The House about supporting people in Tumbler Ridge as they grapple with the tragedy and devastation of Tuesday’s violence. Then, Liberal MP and École Polytechnique shooting survivor Nathalie Provost joins the program to share why the children affected don’t necessarily need words, “they need warmth.”Plus, as Canada gets ready to send its first astronaut all the way around the moon, some are warning of challenges ahead in maintaining peace in space. The commander of the military’s 3 Canadian Space Division Brigadier General Christopher Horner explains what’s at stake for this country — and how he believes Canada can assert more sovereignty among the stars.Finally, they're essential to the accomplishments of world leaders, but it’s rare to hear much about a prime minister or president’s chief of staff. Host Catherine Cullen sits down with Justin Trudeau’s former chief of staff, Katie Telford, and Phoebe Saintilan-Stocks, author of The Right Hand: Conversations with the Chiefs of Staff of the World's Most Powerful People, to talk about this critical role and how much power a chief wields.This episode features the voices of:Bob Zimmer, Conservative MP for Prince George–Peace River–Northern RockiesNathalie Provost, Liberal MP and École Polytechnique shooting survivorBrig.-Gen. Christopher Horner, Commander of 3 Canadian Space DivisionKatie Telford, former chief of staff to Prime Minister Justin TrudeauPhoebe Saintilan-Stocks, author of The Right Hand: Conversations with the Chiefs of Staff of the World's Most Powerful PeopleIf you're affected by this story, you can find mental health support through resources in your province or territory.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled the government's new auto strategy – which pulls the plug on the EV sales mandate, but includes measures to encourage Canadians to buy EVs and companies to build and sell those cars here.Host Catherine Cullen asks Industry Minister Mélanie Joly why taxpayers should continue to spend money to help automakers. Then, auto industry expert Greig Mordue explains how auto makers may react, and climate scientist Simon Donner weighs in on whether the policy will result in more EVs on Canadian roads. After that, Kathleen Petty, the host of CBC political podcast West of Centre, explains why Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is demanding more say over judicial appointments as concerns grow over Alberta's separatist movement — and its leaders meeting with Trump Republicans in Washington.Plus, hundreds of politicos gathered in Ottawa this week to commemorate the 20th anniversary of former prime minister Stephen Harper forming government. Harper’s official portrait artist Phil Richards, as well as Harper biographer John Ibbitson and Toronto Star bureau chief Tonda MacCharles discuss what the painting tells us about Harper, his legacy and whether he might return to public life as separatism brews in his home province, Alberta.Finally, the federal government has said it is gearing up to revive online harms legislation which could include Australia-like age restrictions on social media use. Josephine Maharaj, a 12th grader who testified at a parliamentary committee on online safety this week, and law professor Suzie Dunn tell host Catherine Cullen what they think the government should do to make the internet safer.This episode features the voices of:Mélanie Joly, Minister of IndustryGreig Mordue, associate professor at W Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology at McMaster UniversitySimon Donner, climate scientist and professor at the University of British ColumbiaKathleen Petty, host of CBC political podcast West of CentrePhil Richards, Canadian artistJohn Ibbitson, journalist and author of "Stephen Harper"Tonda MacCharles, Ottawa bureau chief for the Toronto StarJosephine Maharaj, youth rights advocate with Children First Canada.Suzie Dunn, interim director of the Law & Technology Institute at Dalhousie University

CBC’s new weekly podcast, Two Blocks from the White House, takes a clear-eyed look at what’s happening in the U.S. right now and what it means for Canadians. In this episode, the White House was back at it last week, threatening tariffs on Bombardier and aircraft made in Canada. And Prime Minister Mark Carney was warned by the U.S. Treasury Secretary not to ‘pick a fight’ ahead of CUSMA trade negotiations.When it comes to the Trump administration’s trolling comments and tariff threats, how can Canadians know what to take seriously? CBC Washington correspondents Katie Simpson, Paul Hunter and Willy Lowry dig in.Find and follow Two Blocks from the White House wherever you get your podcasts, or here: https://link.mgln.ai/2BFTWHxTheHouse

Conservative Party members are gathering in Calgary to review Pierre Poilievre's leadership as big questions loom about whether they can win over a larger share of the electorate. In a special edition of The House, captured from the convention floor, host Catherine Cullen sits down with key Conservatives, party insiders, a pollster and Hill watchers to discuss where the party stands today and what it needs to do to secure that elusive election win.This episode features the voices of:Steve Outhouse, Conservative campaign managerDavid Coletto, CEO of Abacus DataBen Woodfinden, Senior adviser at Meredith Boessenkool & Phillips, former director of communications for Pierre PoilievreErika Barootes, Conservative commentator and former principal secretary to Alberta Premier Danielle SmithJohn Paul Tasker, senior reporter for CBC's parliamentary bureauStephanie Levitz, senior reporter for the Globe and Mail

CBC’s new weekly podcast, Two Blocks from the White House, takes a clear-eyed look at what’s happening in the U.S. right now and what it means for Canadians. This week CBC’s Katie Simpson, reporting from Minnesota since the weekend, joins Paul Hunter and Willy Lowry to unpack the human toll and political consequences of the unrest in Minneapolis and examine what this moment could mean for both Trump’s broader immigration strategy and his 2026 prospects.Find and follow Two Blocks from the White House wherever you get your podcasts, or here: https://link.mgln.ai/2BFTWHxTheHouse

It was a speech heard around the world. In front of global leaders, Prime Minister Mark Carney laid bare Canada's new foreign policy vision: Middle powers need to team up — or they'll be on the menu for hegemons like Russia, China and the United States.Two former diplomats — American Ambassador Tom Shannon, who at one point held the third-highest rank in the U.S. foreign service, and Canadian Senator Peter Boehm, who has served as a G7 sherpa — discuss the significance of the Carney doctrine and whether Canada will pay a price for standing up to Donald Trump. Then, former Republican Senator Jeff Flake talks to The House about what it will take for some members of his party to stand up to Trump and whether Carney’s speech is resonating in the United States. Plus, Germany's ambassador to Canada Tjorven Bellmann explains what her country thinks about Carney's call to action.There's also a question of what actions Carney will take to match his words. Catherine Cullen asks International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu what the government plans to do next and how its trade diversification efforts are going.Finally, after turning heads in Davos, Prime Minister Carney gave a second, Canadian-focused speech at the cabinet retreat in Quebec City — which has furrowed some brows at home. CBC’s Aaron Wherry lays out the domestic reverberations of Carney’s two speeches.This episode features the voices of:Tom Shannon, former U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.Peter Boehm, Canadian senator and former G7 sherpaJeff Flake, former Republican senator for ArizonaTjorven Bellmann, Germany's ambassador to CanadaManinder Sidhu, Minister of International TradeAaron Wherry, senior writer for CBC Politics

Prime Minister Mark Carney's trade deal with China has sent a jolt through Canada and beyond. In exchange for allowing more Chinese-made electric vehicles to enter the Canadian market, Beijing has agreed to lower duties on some agricultural and seafood products. Catherine Cullen first speaks with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew about what the deal means for his province; then former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole discusses the risks of a closer relationship with China; and Business Council of Canada CEO Goldy Hyder discusses the PM’s possible calculus behind the deal.Plus, Carney is not the first prime minister to try to improve Canada’s relationship with China. From Trudeau Sr. to Trudeau Jr., Jia Wang of the University of Alberta’s China Institute and former ambassador Guy Saint-Jacques chart the highs and lows of bilateral relations and tensions; then Politico’s Phelim Kine breaks down the Trump administration’s reaction to Carney calling China a “more predictable partner” than the U.S. Also: François Legault is stepping down as premier of Quebec mere months ahead of a provincial election that polls suggest could be won by the separatist Parti Québécois. Philip Authier of the Montreal Gazette and Daniel Thibeault, Ottawa bureau chief for Radio-Canada, discuss whether Legault's decision throws a wrench in the PQ's plans for a referendum.This episode features the voices of:Wab Kinew, Premier of ManitobaErin O'Toole, former leader of the Conservative Party of CanadaGoldy Hyder, CEO of the Business Council of CanadaJia Wang, senior fellow at the China Institute at the University of CalgaryGuy Saint-Jacques, former Canadian ambassador to ChinaPhelim Kine, Washington-based China correspondent for POLITICOPhilip Authier, National Assembly reporter for the Montreal GazetteDaniel Thibeault, parliamentary bureau chief for Radio-Canada and host of Les Coulisses du Pouvoir

We're less than two weeks into 2026, and Canada is starting the year staring down sudden new threats to its economy — and its security. After a surprise operation to establish a foothold in oil-rich Venezuela, U.S. President Donald Trump is now emphasizing his aspirations for Greenland.Host Catherine Cullen speaks with two national security veterans — Jody Thomas, former national security adviser to the prime minister, and Retired Gen. Wayne Eyre, former chief of defence staff — about their concerns for Canada’s sovereignty and security in this new chapter of the Trump era.Plus, The same day the U.S. launched its military operation in Venezuela, the wife of one of Trump's top advisers warned on social media that "the U.S. doesn't need anything from Canada. Free trade is over." How true is that, ahead of critical trade negotiations? House producer Jennifer Chevalier speaks to former officials and trade experts to understand the rocky road ahead.Finally, why did it take Chrystia Freeland days to announce her resignation as an MP, after news broke she’d be advising the Ukrainian government? And does her exit from the Hill finally set the stage for a slew of anticipated byelections? Political insiders Marci Surkes and Kate Harrison weigh in on the state of play.This episode features the voices of:Jody Thomas, former national security adviser to Justin TrudeauRetired general Wayne Eyre, formerly Canada's chief of the defence staffFen Osler Hampson, co-chair of Expert Group of Canada-U.S. RelationsLaura Dawson, executive director of the Future Borders CoalitionRJ Johnston, director of energy and natural resources policy at the University of CalgaryKate Kalutkiewicz, former U.S. trade negotiatorMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseKate Harrison, Conservative strategist and vice chair at Summa Strategies

This week, The House revisits an in-depth documentary from the summer, as NATO’s secretary general has warned Russia could launch an attack on the alliance within the next five years. Talk to NATO’s two newest members, Finland and Sweden, and they’ll tell you preparation involves a lot more than just boosting military spending. As Canada seeks to strengthen ties with both countries, what can we learn from our newest NATO allies about preparing for the worst? Supported by the R. James Travers Foreign Corresponding Fellowship, CBC's Emma Godmere travelled to the two Nordic countries to visit bomb shelters, the Russian border and military training grounds north of the Arctic Circle to see and hear how Finns and Swedes are steeling themselves for whatever the future may bring.This episode features the voices of: Elina Valtonen, Finland’s minister of foreign affairsViktoria Hjort Malmer, defence policy director at Sweden’s Ministry of DefenceJanne Kuusela, director general, defence policy department at Finland’s Ministry of DefenceAntti Virta, deputy commander, Southeast Finland Border Guard DistrictSamuel Siljanen, head of operations, Southeast Finland Border Guard DistrictLt.-Col. Mikael Dalin, Swedish ArmyLt.-Col. Jukka Vuorisalmi, Finnish ArmyNina Järvenkylä, Helsinki City Rescue DepartmentHarri Mikkola, programme director for Finnish foreign policy, northern European security and NATO at the Finnish Institute of International AffairsNiklas Granholm, deputy director of studies, Swedish Defence Research AgencySara Myrdal, director of international affairs, Swedish Civil Contingencies Agencyand residents of Lappeenranta, Rovaniemi, and Helsinki, Finland; and Stockholm, Sweden

This week on The House: Three Parliament Hill watchers square off against each other to see who can remember the most from a very eventful and consequential year in Canadian politics.

After eight years in Washington, Canada's U.S. ambassador Kirsten Hillman is coming home. Over that time, she has seen Canada's relationship with the United States transform, for better and for worse. As she prepares to step down from her ambassadorship, she explains in an extended interview with host Catherine Cullen how she’s built critical connections in the U.S. capital — and whether she believes there’s a limit to what Trump can do.Plus, author and former presidential speechwriter David Frum believes the American empire is in decline. He reflects on what Canadian democracy can learn from this moment and why he believes a stronger sense of national pride is critical for Canada’s future.This episode features the voices of:Kirsten Hillman, Canada's ambassador to the United StatesDavid Frum, staff writer with The Atlantic

'Twas the evening before the Liberal holiday party, when all through the House… Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. And then, a Christmas surprise that sent the Conservatives awry: Markham—Unionville MP Michael Ma announced he was crossing the floor to join Prime Minister Mark Carney. His move brings the Liberal government within one seat of a majority. Are the Conservatives sweating this? Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman joins The House to discuss whether Pierre Poilievre's leadership is under threat.Then, as some provinces flirt with giving the private sector a greater role in health care, will the federal government push back? Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel joins host Catherine Cullen to discuss — and weighs in on the impact the “Make America Healthy Again” movement is having in this country.Plus, the Liberals introduced yet another tough-on-crime bill — this time aimed at stronger penalties for crimes against women and children. Lawyer and University of Ottawa visiting professor Kate Kehoe digs into whether the proposed law will actually make women safer.Finally, from possible pipelines to potential referendums, there’s a lot stirring in the federation lately. The House checks in with former premiers Jason Kenney and Andrew Furey to get their take on the state of our nation.This episode features the voices of:Melissa Lantsman, deputy leader of the Conservative Party of CanadaDr. Mundeesh Kaur, a foreign trained physician from IndiaMarjorie Michel, Minister of HealthKate Kehoe, lawyer and University of Ottawa visiting professorJason Kenney, former premier of AlbertaAndrew Furey, former premier of Newfoundland & Labrador.

Canadians got to see their 2026 World Cup opponents during the group draw this week in Washington — and Prime Minister Mark Carney got to see U.S. President Donald Trump in-person once again as trade talks remain frozen. Did their meeting give any indication of progress? Parliament Hill Watchers Stephanie Levitz and Joël-Denis Bellavance dig into the rendezvous and other simmering political challenges for the prime minister, like what to do next with his cabinet.After that, housing experts Mike Moffat and Carolyn Whitzman join The House to discuss whether the Liberals are meeting their election promises after a new report says Carney’s marquee housing initiative won’t amount to many new homes. Plus, Conservative housing critic Scott Aitchison breaks down his party’s point of view on the issue.Finally, fresh off his time as Canada’s representative to the United Nations, Bob Rae tells Catherine Cullen about his decades-long political career, his views on Trump’s lasting impact and the parallels he sees between this geopolitical moment and George Orwell’s 1984.This episode features the voices of:Stephanie Levitz, senior reporter for the Globe and MailJoël-Denis Bellavance, Ottawa bureau chief for La PressePeter Davoust, Vancouver residentMike Moffat, founding director of the University of Ottawa’s “Missing Middle Initiative”Carolyn Whitzman, adjunct professor at the University of Toronto’s School of CitiesBob Rae, Canada’s former UN ambassador

Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith signed an agreement this week paving a path for an oil pipeline — a move that ended up costing Carney a cabinet minister and key ally in Quebec. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc joins The House to discuss Steven Guilbeault’s resignation and how Canada plans to address the frustrated B.C. government and coastal First Nations. Then, Catherine Cullen asks B.C. Premier David Eby whether he believes this pipeline will really happen without his province’s consent.Plus, as the dust settles on the Alberta agreement, political strategists Marci Surkes, Erika Barootes and Matthew Dubé discuss the political fallout of the deal and what it means for the fortunes of the Conservatives and the NDP.Finally, Canada is the latest country to cut back on foreign aid. Recently back from Afghanistan, War Child Canada President Dr. Samantha Nutt describes seeing an “unprecedented” level of global suffering and whether she believes the Liberals are giving up on feminist foreign policy.This episode features the voices of:Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental AffairsMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseErika Barootes, Conservative commentator and former principal secretary to Alberta Premier Danielle SmithMatthew Dubé, former Quebec NDP MP and vice-president of Proof StrategiesDavid Eby, Premier of B.C.Samantha Nutt, president of War Child Canada

As Ukraine faces crucial decisions for the future of its four-year fight to defeat Russia’s full-scale invasion, several nations are gathering in Canada for the Halifax International Security Forum to discuss the importance of democracy — including high-profile critics of the Kremlin.One of those dissidents, Vladimir Kara-Murza, was sentenced to 25 years in a Siberian gulag for criticizing Putin’s war on Ukraine. He joins The House to discuss the war in Ukraine, the possibility of a Russian democracy and why he won’t stop advocating for political prisoners who are still behind bars.Then, former chess grandmaster and Putin-critic Garry Kasparov tells host Catherine Cullen why he’s just as concerned about the prospects for democracy in the United States as in Russia. Plus, the King and Queen of Sweden were in Ottawa this week as part of a charm offensive as the Nordic country pitches Canada on its Gripen fighter jet. Meanwhile, the home of the F35 maker, the United States, isn’t pleased that Canada’s been distracted by a new suitor. CBC’s Murray Brewster joins The House to break down the drama.After that, Vancouver area MP and former environment minister Jonathan Wilkinson weighs in on whether he could support lifting the federal tanker ban to ship more bitumen from B.C.'s coast as Ottawa and Alberta work away at a pipeline agreement.Finally, Canada’s victims of crime advocate Benjamin Roebuck explains why he believes survivors of sexual violence are being systemically betrayed by the criminal justice system, detailing how allegations are often disbelieved and cases are regularly delayed or dropped.This episode features the voices of:Vladimir Kara-Murza, vice-president of the Free Russia FoundationGarry Kasparov, founder and chairman of the Renew Democracy InitiativeMurray Brewster, CBC News’ senior defence correspondentJonathan Wilkinson, Liberal MP for North Vancouver-CapilanoBenjamin Roebuck, federal ombudsperson for victims of crime

Looming over the Liberals is whether Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first budget will pass its final vote on Monday in the House of Commons. So far, no other political party has given a sign they will support it. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May discusses whether she’ll change her mind and vote with the Liberals on the budget. Christopher Nardi of the National Post and Tonda MacCharles of the Toronto Star weigh in on where the government can get the last two votes it needs or if we’re heading into another election this year. Mark Carney announced more major projects to spur Canada’s economic growth. Rick Smith of the Canadian Climate Institute tells The House how Canada’s push to expand mining and energy projects is going down at the United Nations climate change conference in Brazil. Plus, as Canada loses its measles elimination status Dr. Natasha Crowcroft, Vice President of the Infectious Diseases and Vaccination Programs Branch at the Public Health Agency of Canada explains what needs to be done to win it back. And: J.D.M. Stewart, author of The Prime Ministers: Canada’s Leaders and the Nation they Shaped, takes Catherine Cullen on a tour of the monuments erected on Parliament Hill to commemorate Canada’s leaders. Who were they, what were their funny foibles, and will Canada ever see a statue of Stephen Harper or Justin Trudeau? This episode features the voices of: Elizabeth May, Green Party LeaderChristopher Nardi, National Post parliamentary reporterTonda MacCharles, Toronto Star Ottawa bureau chief Rick Smith, President of the Canadian Climate InstituteDr. Natasha Crowcroft, Vice President of the Infectious Diseases and Vaccination Programs Branch at the Public Health Agency of Canada J.D.M. Stewart, author of The Prime Ministers: Canada’s Leaders and the Nation they Shaped

Budget week on Parliament Hill quickly became a stunning political drama after Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre lost two of his MPs in quick succession. One has crossed the floor to join the Liberals and the other says he’ll resign as an MP in the spring. How bad is this for the Official Opposition, and where does Poilievre go from here? Conservative strategist Kate Harrison and Liberal strategist Marci Surkes discuss the impact on Poilievre’s leadership, the mood in caucus and whether more departures could follow.Plus, Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer responds to the caucus commotion and lays out his party’s criticism of the budget; and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defends his government’s financial plan.And: Business Council of Canada president Goldy Hyder joins Armine Yalnizyan, Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers in a debate over whether this budget can spur investment and growth without making cost-of-living concerns worse; and Sahir Khan, co-founder and VP of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy helps tally up a budget scorecard on how the document has landed as a win or loss for Canadians.This episode features the voices of:Kate Harrison, Conservative strategist and vice chair at Summa StrategiesMarci Surkes, former senior advisor to Justin Trudeau and chief strategy officer at Compass RoseSahir Khan, co-founder of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and DemocracyFrançois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of FinanceAndrew Scheer, Conservative House leaderGoldy Hyder, president of the Business Council of CanadaArmine Yalnizyan, Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers

This is a big week in politics: Mark Carney’s first federal budget. To catch you up on what you missed from the government’s big unveiling, The House brings you this special bonus episode from today’s live CBC Radio broadcast. Co-hosts Catherine Cullen and Susan Bonner spoke to politicians, business owners, voters and experts to dig into just how pivotal this federal budget may be — and whether it’ll gain enough support from opposition parties to stave off an election.

He may be known as ‘the little guy from Shawinigan,’ but Jean Chrétien’s impact on his hometown has been anything but small. And at 91, the former prime minister seems far from slowing down. In this exclusive documentary, host Catherine Cullen travels to Shawinigan, Que to spend the day with the former prime minister. She learns about how the small city shaped his political career, what he’d say if he was in a room with Donald Trump, and his fiery take on Albertans who want to separate from the rest of Canada.Plus, as the Liberal government prepares to introduce a much-anticipated federal budget, there aren’t many signs opposition MPs will support the critical legislation, raising questions about a snap election. The House Party election podcast team — Catherine Cullen, Daniel Thibeault and Jason Markusoff — reunite to discuss who could support the government and the likelihood of Canada heading into another federal election in 2026.This episode features the voices of:Jean Chrétien, former Liberal prime ministerDaniel Thibeault, parliamentary bureau chief for Radio-Canada and host of Les Coulisses du PouvoirJason Markusoff, CBC Calgary