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Monday, December 15, 2025

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Stuart Benson

Stuart Benson began covering Parliament Hill in early 2022, reporting on political party apparatuses and fundraising, policing and public safety, women and youth, marijuana, heritage, the Bloc Québécois, and the Green Party. He is also The Hill Times’ regular Party Central columnist. Benson previously covered local news and municipal politics at The Low Down to Hull and Back News in Wakefield, Que., where he began his professional journalism career in February 2020. He also won a Quebec Community Newspaper Award in 2021 for Best News Story and Best Agricultural Story, as well as winning a Canadian Community Newspaper award for Best Campus News story in 2020.

The Grinch steals Conservatives’ Christmas, delivers the Liberals a miracle 171st seat

  • Nearly 2,500 Liberals packed the Rogers Centre Ottawa for their annual holiday party as Santa Carney delivered one more colleague under the caucus tree.
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 13, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, delivered one last gift to the Liberal caucus at their annual holiday party, welcoming the latest Conservative floor crosser, now-Liberal MP Michael Ma, onto the stage to deafening applause on Dec. 11. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

The Grinch steals Conservatives’ Christmas, delivers the Liberals a miracle 171st seat

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 13, 2025
  • Nearly 2,500 Liberals packed the Rogers Centre Ottawa for their annual holiday party as Santa Carney delivered one more colleague under the caucus tree.

The Grinch steals Conservatives’ Christmas, delivers the Liberals a miracle 171st seat

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 13, 2025
  • Nearly 2,500 Liberals packed the Rogers Centre Ottawa for their annual holiday party as Santa Carney delivered one more colleague under the caucus tree.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, delivered one last gift to the Liberal caucus at their annual holiday party, welcoming the latest Conservative floor crosser, now-Liberal MP Michael Ma, onto the stage to deafening applause on Dec. 11. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

‘A strange situation’: Conservative MPs sharply rebuke floor-crosser Ma as Liberals inch toward majority

  • Toronto-area MP Michael Ma is the latest disgruntled Conservative to join the ‘big tent’ Liberals. While several Liberal MPs tell The Hill Times more
News | BY STUART BENSON, MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND | December 12, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, welcomes new Liberal MP Michael Ma to the stage at the Liberals' holiday party, just a few hours after Ma announced he was crossing the floor from the Conservatives. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

‘A strange situation’: Conservative MPs sharply rebuke floor-crosser Ma as Liberals inch toward majority

News | BY STUART BENSON, MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND | December 12, 2025
  • Toronto-area MP Michael Ma is the latest disgruntled Conservative to join the ‘big tent’ Liberals. While several Liberal MPs tell The Hill Times more

‘A strange situation’: Conservative MPs sharply rebuke floor-crosser Ma as Liberals inch toward majority

News | BY STUART BENSON, MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND | December 12, 2025
  • Toronto-area MP Michael Ma is the latest disgruntled Conservative to join the ‘big tent’ Liberals. While several Liberal MPs tell The Hill Times more
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, welcomes new Liberal MP Michael Ma to the stage at the Liberals' holiday party, just a few hours after Ma announced he was crossing the floor from the Conservatives. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Two ‘Conservative leaders,’ one bank vault, and zero leaks: Poilievre’s gallery dinner surprise

  • This Hour Has 22 Minutes’ Poilievre impersonator Chris Wilson shares how the Opposition Leader’s Office landed its double punchline.
News | BY STUART BENSON | December 10, 2025
The first appearance of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, second right, at this year's press gallery dinner had been in the works since June when his new director of communications, Katy Merrifield, centre, suggested he team up with his This Hour Has 22 Minutes 'clone,' Chris Wilson, third left. Photograph courtesy of Katy Merrifield

Two ‘Conservative leaders,’ one bank vault, and zero leaks: Poilievre’s gallery dinner surprise

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 10, 2025
  • This Hour Has 22 Minutes’ Poilievre impersonator Chris Wilson shares how the Opposition Leader’s Office landed its double punchline.

Two ‘Conservative leaders,’ one bank vault, and zero leaks: Poilievre’s gallery dinner surprise

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 10, 2025
  • This Hour Has 22 Minutes’ Poilievre impersonator Chris Wilson shares how the Opposition Leader’s Office landed its double punchline.
The first appearance of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, second right, at this year's press gallery dinner had been in the works since June when his new director of communications, Katy Merrifield, centre, suggested he team up with his This Hour Has 22 Minutes 'clone,' Chris Wilson, third left. Photograph courtesy of Katy Merrifield

Minister called to de-haze budget math on cuts to veterans’ medical cannabis reimbursement

  • The proposed $2.50-per-gram reduction in reimbursements could 'fundamentally change' veterans' access to high-quality and affordable products, says Dr. Nick Withers.
News | BY STUART BENSON | December 9, 2025
Opposition critics and veterans are calling on Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight to explain how only millions of dollars in reimbursement reductions for medical cannabis will amount to the projected $4-billion over four years in savings for her department. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Minister called to de-haze budget math on cuts to veterans’ medical cannabis reimbursement

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 9, 2025
  • The proposed $2.50-per-gram reduction in reimbursements could 'fundamentally change' veterans' access to high-quality and affordable products, says Dr. Nick Withers.

Minister called to de-haze budget math on cuts to veterans’ medical cannabis reimbursement

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 9, 2025
  • The proposed $2.50-per-gram reduction in reimbursements could 'fundamentally change' veterans' access to high-quality and affordable products, says Dr. Nick Withers.
Opposition critics and veterans are calling on Veterans Affairs Minister Jill McKnight to explain how only millions of dollars in reimbursement reductions for medical cannabis will amount to the projected $4-billion over four years in savings for her department. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals hold steady post budget, but pipeline talks may test progressive coalition, pollsters say

  • With the ‘slight uptick’ in the favourability numbers for both the Liberals and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s after the budget and the Ottawa-Alberta MOU,
News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
The 'slight' boost to Prime Minister Mark Carney's polling numbers may be due to the 'hope' the budget offered to Canadians that he 'might have a plan,' says Abacus Data CEO David Coletto. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals hold steady post budget, but pipeline talks may test progressive coalition, pollsters say

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
  • With the ‘slight uptick’ in the favourability numbers for both the Liberals and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s after the budget and the Ottawa-Alberta MOU,

Liberals hold steady post budget, but pipeline talks may test progressive coalition, pollsters say

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
  • With the ‘slight uptick’ in the favourability numbers for both the Liberals and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s after the budget and the Ottawa-Alberta MOU,
Mark Carney
The 'slight' boost to Prime Minister Mark Carney's polling numbers may be due to the 'hope' the budget offered to Canadians that he 'might have a plan,' says Abacus Data CEO David Coletto. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberal border bill returns to the House after Conservative, Bloc enhancements at committee

  • NDP MP Jenny Kwan says it was 'astounding and horrific' to see the Liberals work with the Conservatives to lead Canada toward a more
News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
After successfully proposing nearly 30 amendments to strengthen and enhance Bill C-12, Conservative Immigration critic Michelle Rempel Garner says the Liberals still need to go further to meaningfully reform Canada's immigration system. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberal border bill returns to the House after Conservative, Bloc enhancements at committee

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
  • NDP MP Jenny Kwan says it was 'astounding and horrific' to see the Liberals work with the Conservatives to lead Canada toward a more

Liberal border bill returns to the House after Conservative, Bloc enhancements at committee

News | BY STUART BENSON | December 3, 2025
  • NDP MP Jenny Kwan says it was 'astounding and horrific' to see the Liberals work with the Conservatives to lead Canada toward a more
After successfully proposing nearly 30 amendments to strengthen and enhance Bill C-12, Conservative Immigration critic Michelle Rempel Garner says the Liberals still need to go further to meaningfully reform Canada's immigration system. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

A double shot of Poilievre at the 2025 Press Gallery Dinner

  • The ‘real’ Conservative leader finally shows up, New Democrat Don Davies dubbed comedy king, Hélène Buzzetti wins the 2025 Charles Lynch Award, and Shared
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 1, 2025
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre roasts and toasts the Parliamentary Press Gallery for keeping all of those pesky 'anonymous sources' employed while attending his first PPG gala dinner as party leader in the Sir John A. Macdonald Building ballroom on Nov. 29. Screenshot courtesy of X

A double shot of Poilievre at the 2025 Press Gallery Dinner

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 1, 2025
  • The ‘real’ Conservative leader finally shows up, New Democrat Don Davies dubbed comedy king, Hélène Buzzetti wins the 2025 Charles Lynch Award, and Shared

A double shot of Poilievre at the 2025 Press Gallery Dinner

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | December 1, 2025
  • The ‘real’ Conservative leader finally shows up, New Democrat Don Davies dubbed comedy king, Hélène Buzzetti wins the 2025 Charles Lynch Award, and Shared
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre roasts and toasts the Parliamentary Press Gallery for keeping all of those pesky 'anonymous sources' employed while attending his first PPG gala dinner as party leader in the Sir John A. Macdonald Building ballroom on Nov. 29. Screenshot courtesy of X

Alberta MOU still a ‘good deal’ say Liberal MPs, despite loss of ‘star factor’ in Quebec with Guilbeault’s resignation

  • Green Leader Elizabeth May says the Liberals’ situation in Quebec ‘is very much changed’ by the departure of longtime environmentalist and cabinet minister Steven
News | BY ELEANOR WAND, STUART BENSON | November 28, 2025
Former Canadian identity minister and Quebec lieutenant Steven Guilbeault resigned from cabinet hours after the prime minister signed a new energy deal with Alberta, which paves the way for a pipeline running from the oilsands to B.C.’s coast. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Alberta MOU still a ‘good deal’ say Liberal MPs, despite loss of ‘star factor’ in Quebec with Guilbeault’s resignation

News | BY ELEANOR WAND, STUART BENSON | November 28, 2025
  • Green Leader Elizabeth May says the Liberals’ situation in Quebec ‘is very much changed’ by the departure of longtime environmentalist and cabinet minister Steven

Alberta MOU still a ‘good deal’ say Liberal MPs, despite loss of ‘star factor’ in Quebec with Guilbeault’s resignation

News | BY ELEANOR WAND, STUART BENSON | November 28, 2025
  • Green Leader Elizabeth May says the Liberals’ situation in Quebec ‘is very much changed’ by the departure of longtime environmentalist and cabinet minister Steven
Former Canadian identity minister and Quebec lieutenant Steven Guilbeault resigned from cabinet hours after the prime minister signed a new energy deal with Alberta, which paves the way for a pipeline running from the oilsands to B.C.’s coast. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Fighting words and frothy pints with Canada’s Son of a Critch

  • This Hour has 22 Minutes mainstay Mark Critch celebrated the launch of his new book, Sorry Not Sorry, at the Irish Ambassador's residence.
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 27, 2025
Irish Ambassador John Concannon, left, hosted comedian Mark Critch at his official residence on Nov. 26 for an exclusive launch party, organized by Sandstone Group's Kevin Bosch, right, for Critch's new book 'Sorry Not Sorry: An Unapologetic Look at What Makes Canada Worth Fighting For.' The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Fighting words and frothy pints with Canada’s Son of a Critch

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 27, 2025
  • This Hour has 22 Minutes mainstay Mark Critch celebrated the launch of his new book, Sorry Not Sorry, at the Irish Ambassador's residence.

Fighting words and frothy pints with Canada’s Son of a Critch

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 27, 2025
  • This Hour has 22 Minutes mainstay Mark Critch celebrated the launch of his new book, Sorry Not Sorry, at the Irish Ambassador's residence.
Irish Ambassador John Concannon, left, hosted comedian Mark Critch at his official residence on Nov. 26 for an exclusive launch party, organized by Sandstone Group's Kevin Bosch, right, for Critch's new book 'Sorry Not Sorry: An Unapologetic Look at What Makes Canada Worth Fighting For.' The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Coastal communities ‘running out of time’ without fisheries fund renewal, say opposition critics as DFO faces $544M in cuts

  • While the government is fast-tracking national projects, it's 'reducing DFO’s ability to assess the risks these projects pose to critically important species like salmon,'
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
With Pacific salmon finally beginning to rebound in some regions of B.C. and the Yukon, NDP MP Gord Johns says Canada can't slow efforts to rejuvenate the population as related funding sunsets early next year. Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Coastal communities ‘running out of time’ without fisheries fund renewal, say opposition critics as DFO faces $544M in cuts

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
  • While the government is fast-tracking national projects, it's 'reducing DFO’s ability to assess the risks these projects pose to critically important species like salmon,'

Coastal communities ‘running out of time’ without fisheries fund renewal, say opposition critics as DFO faces $544M in cuts

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
  • While the government is fast-tracking national projects, it's 'reducing DFO’s ability to assess the risks these projects pose to critically important species like salmon,'
With Pacific salmon finally beginning to rebound in some regions of B.C. and the Yukon, NDP MP Gord Johns says Canada can't slow efforts to rejuvenate the population as related funding sunsets early next year. Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Pivot to ‘economic reconciliation’ risks ‘squandering’ political goodwill as Indigenous social programs face funding gaps: observers

  • First Nations and Inuit leaders say the 2025 budget is a ‘missed opportunity’ with financial sunsets looming for critical education, health-care, and urban programs.
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney's focus on nation-building projects and infrastructure funding demonstrates 'reconciliation means something very different' to his government than that of his predecessor, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Pivot to ‘economic reconciliation’ risks ‘squandering’ political goodwill as Indigenous social programs face funding gaps: observers

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
  • First Nations and Inuit leaders say the 2025 budget is a ‘missed opportunity’ with financial sunsets looming for critical education, health-care, and urban programs.

Pivot to ‘economic reconciliation’ risks ‘squandering’ political goodwill as Indigenous social programs face funding gaps: observers

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 19, 2025
  • First Nations and Inuit leaders say the 2025 budget is a ‘missed opportunity’ with financial sunsets looming for critical education, health-care, and urban programs.
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney's focus on nation-building projects and infrastructure funding demonstrates 'reconciliation means something very different' to his government than that of his predecessor, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals ‘live another day’ narrowly win budget vote, avoid election

  • Four abstentions and a last-minute Green olive branch from Elizabeth May helped shepherd the Liberals' budget through the House with a vote of 170-168.
News | BY MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND, RIDDHI KACHHELA, STUART BENSON | November 17, 2025
Minister of Finance and National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne speaks to reporters in the House of Commons foyer on Nov. 17, after the vote on the 2025 federal budget passed. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals ‘live another day’ narrowly win budget vote, avoid election

News | BY MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND, RIDDHI KACHHELA, STUART BENSON | November 17, 2025
  • Four abstentions and a last-minute Green olive branch from Elizabeth May helped shepherd the Liberals' budget through the House with a vote of 170-168.

Liberals ‘live another day’ narrowly win budget vote, avoid election

News | BY MARLO GLASS, ELEANOR WAND, RIDDHI KACHHELA, STUART BENSON | November 17, 2025
  • Four abstentions and a last-minute Green olive branch from Elizabeth May helped shepherd the Liberals' budget through the House with a vote of 170-168.
Minister of Finance and National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne speaks to reporters in the House of Commons foyer on Nov. 17, after the vote on the 2025 federal budget passed. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Potential PCO intelligence cuts ‘counterintuitive and risky,’ say national security experts

  • The government's effort to find savings by scrapping duplication risks undermining the country’s limited analytical capacity, says Stephanie Carvin.
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
With the budget proposing spending cuts to the Privy Council Office, experts say Prime Minister Mark Carney should be expanding his access to relevant analysis rather than shrinking from the standards set by Canada's partners. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Potential PCO intelligence cuts ‘counterintuitive and risky,’ say national security experts

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
  • The government's effort to find savings by scrapping duplication risks undermining the country’s limited analytical capacity, says Stephanie Carvin.

Potential PCO intelligence cuts ‘counterintuitive and risky,’ say national security experts

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
  • The government's effort to find savings by scrapping duplication risks undermining the country’s limited analytical capacity, says Stephanie Carvin.
Mark Carney
With the budget proposing spending cuts to the Privy Council Office, experts say Prime Minister Mark Carney should be expanding his access to relevant analysis rather than shrinking from the standards set by Canada's partners. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals’ ‘quiet confidence’ the best move as budget ‘dominoes’ fall with the Conservative caucus count, say politicos

  • 'If you're the Liberals, you let this play out,' and don't get in the way of any opposition mistakes that may ultimately ease the
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, may have already set in motion the events that will decide the fate of his government's first budget in the weeks prior to the document being tabled in the House, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Liberals’ ‘quiet confidence’ the best move as budget ‘dominoes’ fall with the Conservative caucus count, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
  • 'If you're the Liberals, you let this play out,' and don't get in the way of any opposition mistakes that may ultimately ease the

Liberals’ ‘quiet confidence’ the best move as budget ‘dominoes’ fall with the Conservative caucus count, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 12, 2025
  • 'If you're the Liberals, you let this play out,' and don't get in the way of any opposition mistakes that may ultimately ease the
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, may have already set in motion the events that will decide the fate of his government's first budget in the weeks prior to the document being tabled in the House, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Champagne’s budget and ‘Prosecco Prudence’ at The Met

  • Finance Minister Champagne takes a victory lap at The Métropolitain Brasserie on Nov. 4 at Politico and Earnscliffe Strategies’ post-budget party
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, centre, celebrates with fellow Liberals, and hundreds of other politicos who packed the Métropolitain Brasserie on Nov. 4 at the post-budget 'Prudence and Prosecco' party hosted by Politico and Earnscliffe Strategies. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Champagne’s budget and ‘Prosecco Prudence’ at The Met

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • Finance Minister Champagne takes a victory lap at The Métropolitain Brasserie on Nov. 4 at Politico and Earnscliffe Strategies’ post-budget party

Champagne’s budget and ‘Prosecco Prudence’ at The Met

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • Finance Minister Champagne takes a victory lap at The Métropolitain Brasserie on Nov. 4 at Politico and Earnscliffe Strategies’ post-budget party
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, centre, celebrates with fellow Liberals, and hundreds of other politicos who packed the Métropolitain Brasserie on Nov. 4 at the post-budget 'Prudence and Prosecco' party hosted by Politico and Earnscliffe Strategies. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Petition urges House to introduce foreign ownership rules to protect ‘Canadian sovereignty and journalistic integrity’

  • The petition aimed squarely at Postmedia's American majority stake has garnered more than 5,000 signatures, but could have far-reaching impacts for many outlets operating
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
As Canadian media increasingly seeks public money to remain in operation, Postmedia journalists say cutting international funding opportunities would only further erode the industry and accelerate the growth of Canada's news deserts. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Petition urges House to introduce foreign ownership rules to protect ‘Canadian sovereignty and journalistic integrity’

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • The petition aimed squarely at Postmedia's American majority stake has garnered more than 5,000 signatures, but could have far-reaching impacts for many outlets operating

Petition urges House to introduce foreign ownership rules to protect ‘Canadian sovereignty and journalistic integrity’

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • The petition aimed squarely at Postmedia's American majority stake has garnered more than 5,000 signatures, but could have far-reaching impacts for many outlets operating
As Canadian media increasingly seeks public money to remain in operation, Postmedia journalists say cutting international funding opportunities would only further erode the industry and accelerate the growth of Canada's news deserts. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Party supporters ‘tapped out’ as post-election donation dip deepens with Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

  • Liberal strategist Dan Arnold says ‘money follows enthusiasm’ as waning donations contradict all parties' election-ready posturing.
News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, top right, and interim NDP leader Don Davies. Despite quarterly fundraising falling to levels unseen since 2022, the Liberals’ and Conservatives’ three-quarter totals already represent historic records for their respective parties. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustrations by Joey Sabourin

Party supporters ‘tapped out’ as post-election donation dip deepens with Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • Liberal strategist Dan Arnold says ‘money follows enthusiasm’ as waning donations contradict all parties' election-ready posturing.

Party supporters ‘tapped out’ as post-election donation dip deepens with Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

News | BY STUART BENSON | November 5, 2025
  • Liberal strategist Dan Arnold says ‘money follows enthusiasm’ as waning donations contradict all parties' election-ready posturing.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, top right, and interim NDP leader Don Davies. Despite quarterly fundraising falling to levels unseen since 2022, the Liberals’ and Conservatives’ three-quarter totals already represent historic records for their respective parties. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustrations by Joey Sabourin

Post-election donation dip deepens as Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

  • Despite quarterly fundraising falling to levels unseen since 2022, the Liberals’ overall $23.7-million and the Conservatives’ $41.6-million take for 2025 already represent historic records
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 31, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, has led the Liberal Party to a reversal of fortunes in fundraising this year, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's three-quarter total is just shy of his party's historic 2024 total. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

Post-election donation dip deepens as Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 31, 2025
  • Despite quarterly fundraising falling to levels unseen since 2022, the Liberals’ overall $23.7-million and the Conservatives’ $41.6-million take for 2025 already represent historic records

Post-election donation dip deepens as Grits and Tories deadlocked at $4M range in third quarter

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 31, 2025
  • Despite quarterly fundraising falling to levels unseen since 2022, the Liberals’ overall $23.7-million and the Conservatives’ $41.6-million take for 2025 already represent historic records
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, has led the Liberal Party to a reversal of fortunes in fundraising this year, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's three-quarter total is just shy of his party's historic 2024 total. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

McPherson, Ashton, Lewis pitch anti-cat credentials in Mouseland

  • Hundreds of New Democrats painted SJAM orange on Oct. 28 at the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation’s annual gala.
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 30, 2025
NDP leadership candidates Rob Ashton, left, MP Heather McPherson, and Avi Lewis participated in a panel discussion, moderated by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung's Jordan Leichnitz on Oct. 28, at the third annual Mouseland Gala. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

McPherson, Ashton, Lewis pitch anti-cat credentials in Mouseland

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 30, 2025
  • Hundreds of New Democrats painted SJAM orange on Oct. 28 at the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation’s annual gala.

McPherson, Ashton, Lewis pitch anti-cat credentials in Mouseland

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 30, 2025
  • Hundreds of New Democrats painted SJAM orange on Oct. 28 at the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation’s annual gala.
NDP leadership candidates Rob Ashton, left, MP Heather McPherson, and Avi Lewis participated in a panel discussion, moderated by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung's Jordan Leichnitz on Oct. 28, at the third annual Mouseland Gala. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

‘Prices have to go down’: housing experts say new agency’s success must be measured in cost, not construction outcomes

  • Though the housing minister sidestepped direct answers on falling prices, policy expert Mike Moffatt says Ottawa can’t meet its targets without lowering home values.
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 29, 2025
Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, pictured with Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, says the Build Canada Homes initiative will 'help transform Canada’s housing industry,' but experts warn that scaling up from construction to manufacturing is easier said than done. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

‘Prices have to go down’: housing experts say new agency’s success must be measured in cost, not construction outcomes

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 29, 2025
  • Though the housing minister sidestepped direct answers on falling prices, policy expert Mike Moffatt says Ottawa can’t meet its targets without lowering home values.

‘Prices have to go down’: housing experts say new agency’s success must be measured in cost, not construction outcomes

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 29, 2025
  • Though the housing minister sidestepped direct answers on falling prices, policy expert Mike Moffatt says Ottawa can’t meet its targets without lowering home values.
Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, pictured with Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, says the Build Canada Homes initiative will 'help transform Canada’s housing industry,' but experts warn that scaling up from construction to manufacturing is easier said than done. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opposition parties can’t afford to call Liberals’ bluff on budget vote, say pollsters

  • 'If the budget falls, it needs to be seen as the fault of the opposition,' but Carney needs to do more to prime Canadians
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 28, 2025
Prime Minister Carney, left, may be willing to walk away from 'horse trading' with the opposition parties of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, centre, and Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet to pass his budget, says Nik Nanos. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Opposition parties can’t afford to call Liberals’ bluff on budget vote, say pollsters

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 28, 2025
  • 'If the budget falls, it needs to be seen as the fault of the opposition,' but Carney needs to do more to prime Canadians

Opposition parties can’t afford to call Liberals’ bluff on budget vote, say pollsters

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 28, 2025
  • 'If the budget falls, it needs to be seen as the fault of the opposition,' but Carney needs to do more to prime Canadians
Prime Minister Carney, left, may be willing to walk away from 'horse trading' with the opposition parties of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, centre, and Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet to pass his budget, says Nik Nanos. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

From pen to paper to permanent record: Highway, Kaur, Ramadan, MacMillan, and Boulianne-Tremblay head to the Archives

  • Library and Archives Canada honoured five of this country's literary luminaries on Oct. 22 at the 2025 LAC Foundation Scholars Awards.
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 24, 2025
The 2025 Library and Archives' Scholars: Tomson Highway, left, Danny Ramadan, Rupi Kaur, Gabrielle Boulianne-Tremblay, and Margaret MacMillan at the LAC Foundation's award ceremony on Oct. 22, at Library and Archives headquarters in Ottawa. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

From pen to paper to permanent record: Highway, Kaur, Ramadan, MacMillan, and Boulianne-Tremblay head to the Archives

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 24, 2025
  • Library and Archives Canada honoured five of this country's literary luminaries on Oct. 22 at the 2025 LAC Foundation Scholars Awards.

From pen to paper to permanent record: Highway, Kaur, Ramadan, MacMillan, and Boulianne-Tremblay head to the Archives

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 24, 2025
  • Library and Archives Canada honoured five of this country's literary luminaries on Oct. 22 at the 2025 LAC Foundation Scholars Awards.
The 2025 Library and Archives' Scholars: Tomson Highway, left, Danny Ramadan, Rupi Kaur, Gabrielle Boulianne-Tremblay, and Margaret MacMillan at the LAC Foundation's award ceremony on Oct. 22, at Library and Archives headquarters in Ottawa. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Broadcasters on the Hill enjoy chill fall vibes at the National Arts Centre

  • The Canadian Association of Broadcasters capped off a two-day conference with a low-key reception on Oct. 21 in the NAC’s panoramic O’Born Room.
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 23, 2025
CPAC's Jeremy Clark, left, Canadian Heritage Deputy Minister Isabelle Mondou, and Kevin Desjardins, president of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, attend the annual Broadcasters on the Hill Reception at the National Arts Centre on Oct. 21. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Broadcasters on the Hill enjoy chill fall vibes at the National Arts Centre

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 23, 2025
  • The Canadian Association of Broadcasters capped off a two-day conference with a low-key reception on Oct. 21 in the NAC’s panoramic O’Born Room.

Broadcasters on the Hill enjoy chill fall vibes at the National Arts Centre

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | October 23, 2025
  • The Canadian Association of Broadcasters capped off a two-day conference with a low-key reception on Oct. 21 in the NAC’s panoramic O’Born Room.
CPAC's Jeremy Clark, left, Canadian Heritage Deputy Minister Isabelle Mondou, and Kevin Desjardins, president of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, attend the annual Broadcasters on the Hill Reception at the National Arts Centre on Oct. 21. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Conservative attacks on DEI are nothing new, but fighting past battles risks future growth, say politicos

  • The Tories' latest salvo on DEI policies and Trudeau-era grievances appeals to ‘the basest of the base,’ but could alienate potential new voters, says
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's recent call for federal spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion 'to die' is a renewal of his party's campaign promise to end 'failed policies with little resonance for average Canadians,' says Crestview Strategy's Ashton Arsenault. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Conservative attacks on DEI are nothing new, but fighting past battles risks future growth, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
  • The Tories' latest salvo on DEI policies and Trudeau-era grievances appeals to ‘the basest of the base,’ but could alienate potential new voters, says

Conservative attacks on DEI are nothing new, but fighting past battles risks future growth, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
  • The Tories' latest salvo on DEI policies and Trudeau-era grievances appeals to ‘the basest of the base,’ but could alienate potential new voters, says
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's recent call for federal spending on diversity, equity, and inclusion 'to die' is a renewal of his party's campaign promise to end 'failed policies with little resonance for average Canadians,' says Crestview Strategy's Ashton Arsenault. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Lack of foreign interference registry ‘mystifying’ as Canada attempts diplomatic reset with primary culprits, says NDP MP Jenny Kwan

  • The delay in naming a commissioner to lead the foreign interference registry is 'clearly linked' to the foreign minister's recent travel to India and
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said in August he planned to consult recognized party leaders on candidates for the promised Foreign Interference Transparency Registry before Parliament returned, but neither those consultations nor the registry have materialized. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Lack of foreign interference registry ‘mystifying’ as Canada attempts diplomatic reset with primary culprits, says NDP MP Jenny Kwan

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
  • The delay in naming a commissioner to lead the foreign interference registry is 'clearly linked' to the foreign minister's recent travel to India and

Lack of foreign interference registry ‘mystifying’ as Canada attempts diplomatic reset with primary culprits, says NDP MP Jenny Kwan

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 22, 2025
  • The delay in naming a commissioner to lead the foreign interference registry is 'clearly linked' to the foreign minister's recent travel to India and
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said in August he planned to consult recognized party leaders on candidates for the promised Foreign Interference Transparency Registry before Parliament returned, but neither those consultations nor the registry have materialized. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Civil liberties groups urge Liberals to withdraw ‘vague’ anti-hate bill that opposition MPs say is ‘trying to lower the bar’ for prosecution

  • Bloc and Conservative members of the House Justice Committee studying Bill C-9 accused the Liberals of using the legislation to 'dilute' the definition of
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
Justice Minister Sean Fraser says Bill C-9 ‘strikes the right balance’ between calls for clarity from law enforcement and Canadians' rights to express themselves. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Civil liberties groups urge Liberals to withdraw ‘vague’ anti-hate bill that opposition MPs say is ‘trying to lower the bar’ for prosecution

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
  • Bloc and Conservative members of the House Justice Committee studying Bill C-9 accused the Liberals of using the legislation to 'dilute' the definition of

Civil liberties groups urge Liberals to withdraw ‘vague’ anti-hate bill that opposition MPs say is ‘trying to lower the bar’ for prosecution

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
  • Bloc and Conservative members of the House Justice Committee studying Bill C-9 accused the Liberals of using the legislation to 'dilute' the definition of
Justice Minister Sean Fraser says Bill C-9 ‘strikes the right balance’ between calls for clarity from law enforcement and Canadians' rights to express themselves. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

‘Culture is not on the table’ in trade talks amid film tariff threats and domestic digital policy uncertainty, says Guilbeault

  • The Canadian Media Producers Association is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to ‘rethink’ any potential of using the Online Streaming Act as a ‘bargaining
News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault told a gathering of media producers that streaming services have a role to play in investing in the success and sustainability of the country's cultural sectors. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

‘Culture is not on the table’ in trade talks amid film tariff threats and domestic digital policy uncertainty, says Guilbeault

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
  • The Canadian Media Producers Association is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to ‘rethink’ any potential of using the Online Streaming Act as a ‘bargaining

‘Culture is not on the table’ in trade talks amid film tariff threats and domestic digital policy uncertainty, says Guilbeault

News | BY STUART BENSON | October 15, 2025
  • The Canadian Media Producers Association is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to ‘rethink’ any potential of using the Online Streaming Act as a ‘bargaining
Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault told a gathering of media producers that streaming services have a role to play in investing in the success and sustainability of the country's cultural sectors. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia
More Stories

‘Waiting is deadly for Palestinians’: Canada can’t put off state recognition, says NDP’s McPherson

  • Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but holding off until that time endangers
News | BY STUART BENSON | September 3, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced Canada's intention to recognize a state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in New York at the end of September on July 30. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

‘Waiting is deadly for Palestinians’: Canada can’t put off state recognition, says NDP’s McPherson

News | BY STUART BENSON | September 3, 2025
  • Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but holding off until that time endangers

‘Waiting is deadly for Palestinians’: Canada can’t put off state recognition, says NDP’s McPherson

News | BY STUART BENSON | September 3, 2025
  • Canada intends to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but holding off until that time endangers
Prime Minister Mark Carney, right, and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand announced Canada's intention to recognize a state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in New York at the end of September on July 30. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Air Canada strike intervention shortens Carney’s domestic runway to land ‘Trump and trade’ deals, say strategists

  • 'Carney is going to have to deliver something big,' says Liberal strategist Joe Jordan.
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney's intervention in the Air Canada strike and recent concessions in negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump are the latest of several unforced errors since taking office that could build into major liabilities and vectors of attack for the opposition when Parliament returns in the fall, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Air Canada strike intervention shortens Carney’s domestic runway to land ‘Trump and trade’ deals, say strategists

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
  • 'Carney is going to have to deliver something big,' says Liberal strategist Joe Jordan.

Air Canada strike intervention shortens Carney’s domestic runway to land ‘Trump and trade’ deals, say strategists

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
  • 'Carney is going to have to deliver something big,' says Liberal strategist Joe Jordan.
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney's intervention in the Air Canada strike and recent concessions in negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump are the latest of several unforced errors since taking office that could build into major liabilities and vectors of attack for the opposition when Parliament returns in the fall, say strategists. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Bound to Alberta? Poilievre has yet to commit to reclaiming Carleton next election

  • Strategist Laura Kurkimaki says running in an Alberta riding is a 'natural fit' for the Calgary-born Conservative leader.
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, right, with his wife, Anaida. Conservative strategists say time is on Poilievre’s side to determine what’s next and where he’ll stand in the next election. Photograph courtesy of X

Bound to Alberta? Poilievre has yet to commit to reclaiming Carleton next election

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
  • Strategist Laura Kurkimaki says running in an Alberta riding is a 'natural fit' for the Calgary-born Conservative leader.

Bound to Alberta? Poilievre has yet to commit to reclaiming Carleton next election

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 27, 2025
  • Strategist Laura Kurkimaki says running in an Alberta riding is a 'natural fit' for the Calgary-born Conservative leader.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, right, with his wife, Anaida. Conservative strategists say time is on Poilievre’s side to determine what’s next and where he’ll stand in the next election. Photograph courtesy of X

Forest fire travel ban backlash demonstrates lack of investment in trust post-COVID, says public health expert

  • The type of outrage seen against the actions in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick will reappear against any collective public health and safety measure
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 20, 2025
Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources firefighters watch as a water bomber from Quebec makes a pass over the wildfire in Susie's Lake, N.S., last week, which was assessed as 'under control' on Aug. 15. Photograph courtesy of the Government of Nova Scotia

Forest fire travel ban backlash demonstrates lack of investment in trust post-COVID, says public health expert

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 20, 2025
  • The type of outrage seen against the actions in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick will reappear against any collective public health and safety measure

Forest fire travel ban backlash demonstrates lack of investment in trust post-COVID, says public health expert

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 20, 2025
  • The type of outrage seen against the actions in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick will reappear against any collective public health and safety measure
Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources firefighters watch as a water bomber from Quebec makes a pass over the wildfire in Susie's Lake, N.S., last week, which was assessed as 'under control' on Aug. 15. Photograph courtesy of the Government of Nova Scotia

‘Easier to advertise cookies than spinach’: Conservatives outspent the Liberals seven-to-one in 2024 advertising

  • The Liberals’ $2.3-million in digital-focused ads in 2024 demonstrates the lack of confidence the party had in its previous leader and message, says EOK
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 19, 2025
Under leader Pierre Poilievre, right, the Conservatives spent more than $16-million on ads attacking the former prime minister and the carbon tax in 2024. The Liberals' 'lean, digital first' focus left enough gas in the tank for Prime Minister Mark Carney's success in 2025, say strategists. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

‘Easier to advertise cookies than spinach’: Conservatives outspent the Liberals seven-to-one in 2024 advertising

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 19, 2025
  • The Liberals’ $2.3-million in digital-focused ads in 2024 demonstrates the lack of confidence the party had in its previous leader and message, says EOK

‘Easier to advertise cookies than spinach’: Conservatives outspent the Liberals seven-to-one in 2024 advertising

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 19, 2025
  • The Liberals’ $2.3-million in digital-focused ads in 2024 demonstrates the lack of confidence the party had in its previous leader and message, says EOK
Under leader Pierre Poilievre, right, the Conservatives spent more than $16-million on ads attacking the former prime minister and the carbon tax in 2024. The Liberals' 'lean, digital first' focus left enough gas in the tank for Prime Minister Mark Carney's success in 2025, say strategists. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

‘Everybody loves a comeback’: Pollsters say Conservative Leader Poilievre needs to keep his focus forward, show what he’s learned

  • As Poilievre cruises to a likely uneventful victory in the upcoming Battle River–Crowfoot, Alta., byelection, Abacus Data’s David Coletto says his party faces an
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
Now-former Conservative MP Damien Kurek, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigning in Battle River-Crowfoot, Alta., on June 22, 2025.
Now-former Conservative MP Damien Kurek, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigning in Battle River-Crowfoot, Alta., on June 22, 2025.
Now-former Conservative MP Damien Kurek, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigning in Battle River–Crowfoot, Alta., on June 22. Photograph courtesy of X

‘Everybody loves a comeback’: Pollsters say Conservative Leader Poilievre needs to keep his focus forward, show what he’s learned

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
  • As Poilievre cruises to a likely uneventful victory in the upcoming Battle River–Crowfoot, Alta., byelection, Abacus Data’s David Coletto says his party faces an

‘Everybody loves a comeback’: Pollsters say Conservative Leader Poilievre needs to keep his focus forward, show what he’s learned

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
  • As Poilievre cruises to a likely uneventful victory in the upcoming Battle River–Crowfoot, Alta., byelection, Abacus Data’s David Coletto says his party faces an
Now-former Conservative MP Damien Kurek, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigning in Battle River-Crowfoot, Alta., on June 22, 2025.
Now-former Conservative MP Damien Kurek, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigning in Battle River–Crowfoot, Alta., on June 22. Photograph courtesy of X

Pride attendance may no longer be a litmus test for LGBTQ support, but absence still sends a message, say politicos

  • 'Pride is not necessarily welcoming to everyone anymore, and that’s the opposite of what it should be,' says conservative commentator and transgender advocate Blaine
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
Capital Pride and Liberal Party organizers are attempting to ‘lower the temperature’ ahead of Ottawa’s annual parade on Aug. 24 to avoid last year's turbulence. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Pride attendance may no longer be a litmus test for LGBTQ support, but absence still sends a message, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
  • 'Pride is not necessarily welcoming to everyone anymore, and that’s the opposite of what it should be,' says conservative commentator and transgender advocate Blaine

Pride attendance may no longer be a litmus test for LGBTQ support, but absence still sends a message, say politicos

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 13, 2025
  • 'Pride is not necessarily welcoming to everyone anymore, and that’s the opposite of what it should be,' says conservative commentator and transgender advocate Blaine
Capital Pride and Liberal Party organizers are attempting to ‘lower the temperature’ ahead of Ottawa’s annual parade on Aug. 24 to avoid last year's turbulence. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Calls to cancel concerts risk elevating U.S. Christian singer into MAGA martyr, say advocates

  • Several Conservative MPs have taken to social media to offer solidarity and condemn what they view as 'government censorship' and violations of Charter rights.
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
Sean Feucht, centre, poses with members of his security detail, including members of the Proud Boys, ahead of a 2021 'Let Us Worship' concert in Portland, Ore., on the first anniversary of a series of concerts he organized across the United States to defy public health restrictions and protest COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Photograph courtesy of X

Calls to cancel concerts risk elevating U.S. Christian singer into MAGA martyr, say advocates

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
  • Several Conservative MPs have taken to social media to offer solidarity and condemn what they view as 'government censorship' and violations of Charter rights.

Calls to cancel concerts risk elevating U.S. Christian singer into MAGA martyr, say advocates

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
  • Several Conservative MPs have taken to social media to offer solidarity and condemn what they view as 'government censorship' and violations of Charter rights.
Sean Feucht, centre, poses with members of his security detail, including members of the Proud Boys, ahead of a 2021 'Let Us Worship' concert in Portland, Ore., on the first anniversary of a series of concerts he organized across the United States to defy public health restrictions and protest COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Photograph courtesy of X

Tories and Grits close in second-quarter fundraising as donations drop off post election

  • Federal party second-quarter fundraising dipped from a historic pre-election peak but both the Conservatives' $37.4-million and Liberals' $21.2-million six-month totals have nearly or already
News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP interim leader Don Davies. The Liberals' and Conservatives' second-quarter fundraising totals are a 'vote of confidence' from their base, while the NDP remains afloat. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

Tories and Grits close in second-quarter fundraising as donations drop off post election

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
  • Federal party second-quarter fundraising dipped from a historic pre-election peak but both the Conservatives' $37.4-million and Liberals' $21.2-million six-month totals have nearly or already

Tories and Grits close in second-quarter fundraising as donations drop off post election

News | BY STUART BENSON | August 6, 2025
  • Federal party second-quarter fundraising dipped from a historic pre-election peak but both the Conservatives' $37.4-million and Liberals' $21.2-million six-month totals have nearly or already
Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP interim leader Don Davies. The Liberals' and Conservatives' second-quarter fundraising totals are a 'vote of confidence' from their base, while the NDP remains afloat. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Naomi Wildeboer

Late report on 2024 finances ‘so outdated it’s useless,’ says Democracy Watch as most major parties ask for more time

  • The federal Conservative Party was one of only five registered parties to report its 2024 financial statement by the June 30 deadline, while the
News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
As the Liberals boast of historic grassroots fundraising totals in the first half of 2025 and rumours swirl over the NDP's potential debt post-election, both parties have requested a 60-day extension to the June 30 deadline to file their 2024 financial disclosures. Photo illustration by Joey Sabourin

Late report on 2024 finances ‘so outdated it’s useless,’ says Democracy Watch as most major parties ask for more time

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
  • The federal Conservative Party was one of only five registered parties to report its 2024 financial statement by the June 30 deadline, while the

Late report on 2024 finances ‘so outdated it’s useless,’ says Democracy Watch as most major parties ask for more time

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
  • The federal Conservative Party was one of only five registered parties to report its 2024 financial statement by the June 30 deadline, while the
As the Liberals boast of historic grassroots fundraising totals in the first half of 2025 and rumours swirl over the NDP's potential debt post-election, both parties have requested a 60-day extension to the June 30 deadline to file their 2024 financial disclosures. Photo illustration by Joey Sabourin

New Leaf Liberals want to root out Ontario Liberal shortcomings, not back a particular leader, says co-founder

  • The push to oust Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie in September is heating up as her supporters go on the offensive, accusing the still-budding
News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
Provincial and federal Liberal sources say Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie's problems in Ottawa could expand well beyond any potential challenger's leadership aspirations. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

New Leaf Liberals want to root out Ontario Liberal shortcomings, not back a particular leader, says co-founder

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
  • The push to oust Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie in September is heating up as her supporters go on the offensive, accusing the still-budding

New Leaf Liberals want to root out Ontario Liberal shortcomings, not back a particular leader, says co-founder

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 30, 2025
  • The push to oust Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie in September is heating up as her supporters go on the offensive, accusing the still-budding
Provincial and federal Liberal sources say Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie's problems in Ottawa could expand well beyond any potential challenger's leadership aspirations. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

As Ontario Liberal Leader Crombie faces review, Liberal MP Erskine-Smith opens door for ‘renewal’ in provincial leadership: email

  • Kingston Liberal MPP Ted Hsu says he supports Bonnie Crombie as the party leader, but would leave it up to party delegates to vote
News | BY ABBAS RANA, STUART BENSON | July 10, 2025
Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith is opening up the debate for ‘renewal’ in Ontario provincial leadership, according to an email obtained by The Hill Times. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

As Ontario Liberal Leader Crombie faces review, Liberal MP Erskine-Smith opens door for ‘renewal’ in provincial leadership: email

News | BY ABBAS RANA, STUART BENSON | July 10, 2025
  • Kingston Liberal MPP Ted Hsu says he supports Bonnie Crombie as the party leader, but would leave it up to party delegates to vote

As Ontario Liberal Leader Crombie faces review, Liberal MP Erskine-Smith opens door for ‘renewal’ in provincial leadership: email

News | BY ABBAS RANA, STUART BENSON | July 10, 2025
  • Kingston Liberal MPP Ted Hsu says he supports Bonnie Crombie as the party leader, but would leave it up to party delegates to vote
Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith is opening up the debate for ‘renewal’ in Ontario provincial leadership, according to an email obtained by The Hill Times. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Federal fish science analyses continue to muddy the waters in salmon farm fight

  • Competing analyses are providing new ammunition in the debate over the link between sea lice, B.C.’s coastal salmon farms, and the feds' upcoming 2029
News | BY STUART BENSON | July 2, 2025
Last June, the federal government announced that existing open-net salmon farms in British Columbia would have five years to transition to land-based, closed-containment systems, with the farms banned outright in the Discovery Islands and the Broughton Archipelago since 2023 due to concerns over their connection to sea lice infestations. Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Federal fish science analyses continue to muddy the waters in salmon farm fight

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 2, 2025
  • Competing analyses are providing new ammunition in the debate over the link between sea lice, B.C.’s coastal salmon farms, and the feds' upcoming 2029

Federal fish science analyses continue to muddy the waters in salmon farm fight

News | BY STUART BENSON | July 2, 2025
  • Competing analyses are providing new ammunition in the debate over the link between sea lice, B.C.’s coastal salmon farms, and the feds' upcoming 2029
Last June, the federal government announced that existing open-net salmon farms in British Columbia would have five years to transition to land-based, closed-containment systems, with the farms banned outright in the Discovery Islands and the Broughton Archipelago since 2023 due to concerns over their connection to sea lice infestations. Photograph courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

From Balls Creek ‘boom girl’ to the Decision Desk: CBC ‘legend’ Sharon Musgrave says farewell 

  • Five generations of the CBC family, politicos, and senators packed the Métropolitain Brasserie on June 26 to raise a toast to Musgrave’s three decades
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 27, 2025
CBC News: Politics legend Don Newman, right, reunites with the former Cape Breton-ese voice in his head, Sharon Musgrave, at the Métropolitain Brasserie on June 26, to celebrate her retirement after more than three decades with the public broadcaster. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

From Balls Creek ‘boom girl’ to the Decision Desk: CBC ‘legend’ Sharon Musgrave says farewell 

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 27, 2025
  • Five generations of the CBC family, politicos, and senators packed the Métropolitain Brasserie on June 26 to raise a toast to Musgrave’s three decades

From Balls Creek ‘boom girl’ to the Decision Desk: CBC ‘legend’ Sharon Musgrave says farewell 

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 27, 2025
  • Five generations of the CBC family, politicos, and senators packed the Métropolitain Brasserie on June 26 to raise a toast to Musgrave’s three decades
CBC News: Politics legend Don Newman, right, reunites with the former Cape Breton-ese voice in his head, Sharon Musgrave, at the Métropolitain Brasserie on June 26, to celebrate her retirement after more than three decades with the public broadcaster. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

Beating the heat at Birkett Castle with the Royal Conservatory and Tamás Török

  • Hungarian Ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar hosted an intimate reception and recital performance at her official residence on June 20 in support of the Budapest Symphony
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
Pianist Tamás Török performs at an intimate fundraising dinner and recital at Hungarian Ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar's official residence on June 20. The Hill Times photographs by Sam Garcia

Beating the heat at Birkett Castle with the Royal Conservatory and Tamás Török

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
  • Hungarian Ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar hosted an intimate reception and recital performance at her official residence on June 20 in support of the Budapest Symphony

Beating the heat at Birkett Castle with the Royal Conservatory and Tamás Török

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
  • Hungarian Ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar hosted an intimate reception and recital performance at her official residence on June 20 in support of the Budapest Symphony
Pianist Tamás Török performs at an intimate fundraising dinner and recital at Hungarian Ambassador Mária Vass-Salazar's official residence on June 20. The Hill Times photographs by Sam Garcia

Dong settlement gives closure, but little clarity on foreign interference, say national security and intelligence experts

  • The lawsuit’s settlement affirms that‘ intelligence isn’t evidence,’ but former CSIS analyst Stephanie Carvin says politicians and the media must be better equipped to
News | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
Former Liberal MP Han Dong has settled his lawsuit with Global News over two years after he left the party's caucus and vowed to defend himself from 'absolutely untrue' allegations he advised a Chinese diplomat to delay the release of Micheal Spavor and Michael Kovrig. Screenshot courtesy of CPAC

Dong settlement gives closure, but little clarity on foreign interference, say national security and intelligence experts

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
  • The lawsuit’s settlement affirms that‘ intelligence isn’t evidence,’ but former CSIS analyst Stephanie Carvin says politicians and the media must be better equipped to

Dong settlement gives closure, but little clarity on foreign interference, say national security and intelligence experts

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 25, 2025
  • The lawsuit’s settlement affirms that‘ intelligence isn’t evidence,’ but former CSIS analyst Stephanie Carvin says politicians and the media must be better equipped to
Former Liberal MP Han Dong has settled his lawsuit with Global News over two years after he left the party's caucus and vowed to defend himself from 'absolutely untrue' allegations he advised a Chinese diplomat to delay the release of Micheal Spavor and Michael Kovrig. Screenshot courtesy of CPAC

‘Action, not words’ needed to cool potential long, hot One Canadian protest summer, says Liberal strategist

  • Despite an adjustment to the Liberals’ ‘public-facing’ message on Bill C-5, Nishnawbe Aski First Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says their approach has been
News | BY STUART BENSON | June 24, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
Amid growing threats of a renewed Idle No More summer, Prime Minister Mark Carney held a press conference following Bill C-5's passage through the House of Commons on June 20 to clarify and emphasize that 'free, prior, and informed consent' is 'embedded in the plan.' The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

‘Action, not words’ needed to cool potential long, hot One Canadian protest summer, says Liberal strategist

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 24, 2025
  • Despite an adjustment to the Liberals’ ‘public-facing’ message on Bill C-5, Nishnawbe Aski First Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says their approach has been

‘Action, not words’ needed to cool potential long, hot One Canadian protest summer, says Liberal strategist

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 24, 2025
  • Despite an adjustment to the Liberals’ ‘public-facing’ message on Bill C-5, Nishnawbe Aski First Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says their approach has been
Mark Carney
Amid growing threats of a renewed Idle No More summer, Prime Minister Mark Carney held a press conference following Bill C-5's passage through the House of Commons on June 20 to clarify and emphasize that 'free, prior, and informed consent' is 'embedded in the plan.' The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Electoral success a temporary substitute for Israel-Gaza consensus as caucus quiet on sanctions, say Liberal sources

  • Prime Minister Mark Carney can't keep everyone happy, but he will have more success than his predecessor by focusing on managing international relations rather
News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
Mark Carney
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney is far less interested in 'keeping both sides happy,' and given his strong polling numbers and the hopes of potential caucus shuffles, it's no longer 'open season' to second guess his foreign policy decisions, say Liberal sources. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Electoral success a temporary substitute for Israel-Gaza consensus as caucus quiet on sanctions, say Liberal sources

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney can't keep everyone happy, but he will have more success than his predecessor by focusing on managing international relations rather

Electoral success a temporary substitute for Israel-Gaza consensus as caucus quiet on sanctions, say Liberal sources

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney can't keep everyone happy, but he will have more success than his predecessor by focusing on managing international relations rather
Mark Carney
Prime Minister Mark Carney is far less interested in 'keeping both sides happy,' and given his strong polling numbers and the hopes of potential caucus shuffles, it's no longer 'open season' to second guess his foreign policy decisions, say Liberal sources. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Piggybacking changes to privacy laws ‘has nothing to do with affordability,’ say critics of Bill C-4

  • Just because the prime minister is in a hurry doesn't excuse rushing controversial Elections Act changes on the back of needed affordability measures, says
News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne was in no hurry to explain how Bill C-4's proposed changes to the Elections Act and how political parties handle Canadians' private information will help make their lives more affordable. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Piggybacking changes to privacy laws ‘has nothing to do with affordability,’ say critics of Bill C-4

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
  • Just because the prime minister is in a hurry doesn't excuse rushing controversial Elections Act changes on the back of needed affordability measures, says

Piggybacking changes to privacy laws ‘has nothing to do with affordability,’ say critics of Bill C-4

News | BY STUART BENSON | June 18, 2025
  • Just because the prime minister is in a hurry doesn't excuse rushing controversial Elections Act changes on the back of needed affordability measures, says
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne was in no hurry to explain how Bill C-4's proposed changes to the Elections Act and how political parties handle Canadians' private information will help make their lives more affordable. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Serena Ryder, Logan Staats, and Crown Lands rock the GG’s Performing Arts Awards

  • Governor General Mary Simon rolled out the red carpet on June 14 to celebrate the legends, rising stars, and dedicated volunteers of Canada's performing
Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 16, 2025
Jess Milton, GGPAA foundation executive director, left; 2025 laureate Bob Ezrin; and singer-songwriter Serena Ryder at the 2025 Governor General Performing Arts Awards at the National Arts Centre on June 14. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

Serena Ryder, Logan Staats, and Crown Lands rock the GG’s Performing Arts Awards

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 16, 2025
  • Governor General Mary Simon rolled out the red carpet on June 14 to celebrate the legends, rising stars, and dedicated volunteers of Canada's performing

Serena Ryder, Logan Staats, and Crown Lands rock the GG’s Performing Arts Awards

Feature | BY STUART BENSON | June 16, 2025
  • Governor General Mary Simon rolled out the red carpet on June 14 to celebrate the legends, rising stars, and dedicated volunteers of Canada's performing
Jess Milton, GGPAA foundation executive director, left; 2025 laureate Bob Ezrin; and singer-songwriter Serena Ryder at the 2025 Governor General Performing Arts Awards at the National Arts Centre on June 14. The Hill Times photograph by Stuart Benson

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