Amid brewing ‘recipe for backlash,’ Savoie stresses need for ‘good public debate’ on Canada’s civil service
A public backlash on the horizon if the growing federal civil service doesn’t deliver the goods, says Donald Savoie in his new book.
Liberal-NDP supply-and-confidence deal and U.S. engagement top items on cabinet retreat agenda
The Halifax retreat will also involve ‘talking with folks out here on the East Coast about what really matters,’ says Housing Minister Sean Fraser.
If labour dispute goes ‘sideways’ it could derail Liberal cabinet retreat, says Nanos
If the union decides to ‘kick and scream’ in the face of binding arbitration, it could take steps that would lead to trains not running, says labour law expert Bruce Curran.
Conservatives make good use of their time
Even though the next election is likely over a year away, the Conservatives have been running their fundraising machine at full throttle.
Marlene Catterall was a high-energy, superbly skilled politician
As the first woman chief government whip, she ensured that caucus ran smoothly and legislation got passed. She didn’t take up much space, but knew when to make noise. Her ability to get things done is legendary.
It won’t be easy when the election rolls in
Political parties will exploit our hopes and fears by prepping candidates to ensure our choice is driven by reactionary emotions, not critical analysis. Luckily, we can sift through the noise, and to make an informed decision instead.
Citizens’ services minister ‘unsexiest’ title, but ‘lack of spotlight’ on Beech not bad news politically, say observers
Former Liberal staffer Olivier Cullen says that Terry Beech has quietly taken passports out of the opposition’s ‘arsenal,’ but former NDP staffer Cam Holmstrom says ‘the sad irony is’ the government needed more delivery-focussed ministers from the start.
Rodriguez’s potential departure would leave a huge gap in Liberal electoral machine in Quebec
Pablo Rodriquez has integrated beautifully into the Quebec political world, and is widely recognized as a great organizer in all regions. That would make his decision to leave even tougher for Prime Minister Trudeau as there is no lieutenant heir apparent waiting in the wings.
‘It could be a great night for the NDP’: potential byelection wins could trigger end of Lib-NDP agreement, say political players
‘If you thought Toronto-St. Paul’s was a world of pain for Justin Trudeau, not doing well in LaSalle-Émard-Verdun would be another devastating blow,’ says pollster Nik Nanos.
Byelections don’t count, except when they do
In Montreal, Justin Trudeau is putting his leadership on the line; in Winnipeg, Pierre Poilievre is testing out his cosplay routine as a ‘regular guy,’ and in both cities, Jagmeet Singh and the NDP are fighting to strengthen their national position.
