Playbook Canada

Carney and the politics of concessions

Mark Carney faces a political conundrum: Canadians are in no mood for concessions, but dealing with Washington demands some flexibility. How does he show Canada he's standing firm while keeping his options open with Washington? Playbook marks its 5th birthday with cake, balloons and a crush of Ottawa insiders — some of whom we cornered to share what’s blinking on their radar. Plus, Federation of Canadian Municipalities President Tim Tierney joins us to talk about the politics of potholes.

Ian Brodie on the right, and very wrong, way to engage Alberta

Next up in our summer series looking at the separatism movement in Alberta, Ian Brodie. The first chief of staff to former prime minister Stephen Harper weighs in on the debate dividing his province. He explains why even an 80 percent vote to remain in Canada may not be enough to quash the separatist movement without Mark Carney and Danielle Smith working to lock it down. Plus, his thoughts on Stephen Harper’s role in the campaign. And the right, and very wrong, way for federal politicians to engage with Albertans on this issue.

Separatism becomes Alberta's forever wedge | Jason Kenney

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney joins the pod for a candid conversation about patriotism in a time of separatism. Kenney describes the movement as a “perfect umbrella for every obsession, paranoia and anxiety” gripping parts of the province's right wing. He shares how it's getting personal — ending friendships, including some of his own, and dividing families. And he predicts separatism will be a permanent wedge inside Alberta's conservative party. Plus, Nick watches for Mark Carney vacation plans as trade issues escalate. And Mickey has her eye on Pierre Poilievre, who's been unusually quiet while Conservatives feud online.

Alberta debates, investment waits | Deborah Yedlin

Nick Taylor-Vaisey and Mickey Djuric speak with Calgary Chamber CEO Deborah Yedlin for a frontline read on Alberta’s shifting mood — from standing ovations for Mark Carney to concerns that the referendum on a referendum is putting investment on hold. Yedlin explains what the rest of Canada misunderstands about Alberta’s frustration and why she believes generational economic opportunity is ahead. Plus, Nick watches four thousand WestJet flight attendants on the cusp of striking to see how the Liberal government reacts. And Mickey watches Canadian Heritage Minister Marc Miller — he’s not part of trade negotiations, but his files keep showing up at the table.

Danielle Smith, national unity champion? | Jenni Byrne talks Alberta separatism

Canada's premiers gather in Charlottetown just as President Trump threatens new 50 per cent tariffs. They say they're united, but Doug Ford is pushing for retaliation, and Danielle Smith and Scott Moe are not interested. Our summer series on Alberta separatism continues with long-time Conservative strategist Jenni Byrne, who says the referendum vote could clear 30 per cent at the ballot box and calls Danielle Smith the politician who's done the most for national unity. Her advice for Carney and the Liberals on Alberta: drop the condescension, or sit this one out.