The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge

China and the United States could be on the verge of a deal that could have a huge impact on world trade. All eyes will be on a Thursday meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping -- could Canada be far behind? And Venezuela -- is regime change in the offing? Dr Janice Stein of the Munk School at the University of Toronto joins for her regular Monday appearance.

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Donald Trump has terminated the trade talks with Canada after Ontario ads running in the U.S. use Ronald Reagan's voice condemning tariffs. Is this serious or just Trump bluster?  Meanwhile, the Carney government's first budget is now just days away, and the PM says Canadians will need to make sacrifices. And, Pierre Poilievre has another bad week. All this and more with Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson.

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This week's question followed the new peace deal in the Middle East, which is still being tested. We asked: "What are the chances of everlasting peace in that region?" As always, you go beyond just saying yes or no, which makes for some interesting answers. Then, as he does every week, the Random Ranter drops by with his thoughts this week on, Canada's team -- The Toronto Blue Jays.

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Is your relationship on rocky ground? One of today's endbits offers some HELPFUL suggestions that only take one minute. Wednesdays are usually encore episodes of the Bridge, but occasionally we save up our collected endbits and give you a special show. This is one of those days.

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Journalists hear lots of things in the course of a day on Parliament Hill, and then they work towards trying to nail things down. What's real, what isn't? On the latest edition of Reporter's Notebook Rob Russo and Althia Raj talk about it all from Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre to trade talks and a possible cabinet shuffle.

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It's been a week since Donald Trump heralded a peace deal for the ages in the Middle East. It hasn't all gone easy in the seven days since, so the question is -- can the deal hold? Dr Janice Stein of the Munk School at the University of Toronto is with us for her regular Monday chat as we discuss that plus Ukraine and China.

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There are going to be a lot of special programs done in the next few weeks, leading up to the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Quebec Referendum. A night that those of us who witnessed it will never forget. Tension and emotion ruled the evening. Chantal, Bruce and I were all in different roles watching the story unfold, and this week we talk about what was a historic moment. in the story of Canada, and what it still means in today's world.

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We've thought about asking this question before but something else always came up, but not this week. It's time. Would you run for public office? Any public office. If so, why?  If not, why not?  I think the answers are quite revealing about how Canadians feel about public office holders, and perhaps not what you think. Plus the Random Ranter is here, and he's ready for hardball on autos.

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Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on October 8th. At popular request, no encore this Wednesday, but instead an end-bits special. News you can use, and some you probably will choose to ignore! Everything from what's best to do - shower in the morning or evening, to which car colour holds it resale value best? And a lot more -- enjoy.

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The country was founded on the principle that it's a confederation where both federal and provincial levels of government have powers and responsibilities. It's worked for 158 years, but does it still work? Another fascinating Moore-Butts Conversation, especially relevant to the times Canada is living in today.

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Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on October 9th. Even in the darkest of times, there are things to be grateful for in our lives. And this week, listeners to The Bridge have a selection of reasons they are thankful as we approach Thanksgiving weekend. Even the Random Ranker gives thanks too!

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When Donald Trump and Mark Carney met in the White House for the first time a few months ago, the meeting looked, and was, tense. Not so this latest time. Smiles, laughs and lots of almost boyish banter. What was that all about?  Has anything really changed? Could a deal be in the offing, or was it all for the cameras? Bruce and Chantal have their say.

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Even in the darkest of times, there are things to be grateful for in our lives. And this week, listeners to The Bridge have a selection of reasons they are thankful as we approach Thanksgiving weekend. Even the Random Ranker gives thanks too!

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At popular request, no encore this Wednesday, but instead an end-bits special. News you can use, and some you probably will choose to ignore! Everything from what's best to do - shower in the morning or evening, to which car colour holds it resale value best? And a lot more -- enjoy.

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This is PM Mark Carney's second face-to-face meeting with President Donald Trump, and, added to numerous phone calls and texts, they know each other's positions pretty well. Does that mean some kind of a deal could happen at this latest session? Maybe. Althia Raj and Rob Russo bring us up to date with what they're hearing as the two leaders sit down in the White House today.

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Mark Carney heads to Washington for his latest meeting with Donald Trump. How critical is this one? What can be accomplished? Key questions for Dr Janice Stein on her weekly Monday appearance on The Bridge. Also, the latest talks around peace in Gaza are taking place in Egypt ... what chances for success are there?

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Everyone knew this was coming, but now we are here. It's the great pipeline battle playing out between Ottawa and Alberta, and between Alberta and BC. What's at stake? Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson are here to discuss this and what it means for Mark Carney, the upcoming budget, and the future of the country. And, Donald Trump's "war within" makes the discussion as well.

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What is your view on gun control in Canada? A variety of answers, with a variety of perspectives, from coast-to-coast-to-coast highlight this week on Your Turn, with guest host Will Mansbridge. Plus the Random Ranter is back taking on Trump.

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For the last fifteen years different governments in Ottawa have known tough choices were going to have to be made about the Post Office. But those choices were delayed or postponed. Now it's tough-choice time again. Is there a better way to deal with situations like this? Just one of the angles faced in today's episode of Moore-Butts Conversation #24.

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Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on September 24th. We're featuring two mini interviews with first-time authors who have great stories to tell. Both are friends and former colleagues of mine .... former CBC foreign correspondent Brian Stewart on his new book, On The Ground; and former CBC field producer Halina St. James on her remarkable book, The Golden Daughter.

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The former British Prime Minister isn't talked of much anymore but he may become the key to peace in Gaza. He's well liked by Palestinian leaders, by Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu, and by Donald Trump. A meeting at the White House this afternoon may lead to Blair's entry into the equation. Dr Janice Stein has her thoughts on Blair and how this may actually lead to something everyone can embrace. That and more on today's episode of The Bridge.

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The U.S. Ambassador to Canada was in Banff yesterday for what turned out to be a tense conversation with former Canadian diplomat Colin Robertson. The ambassador, a seasoned American politician, and Robertson, no stranger to Canada-U.S. relations, went at it over some of the things that have been said between the two countries this year. Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson have lots to say about it all, too.

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We've spent a lot of time this year asking questions about the future of Canada, so this week we look south and ask about the U.S. future. Once again, the emails came flooding in from across the country. Also this week the Random Ranter on the issue of "outrage" and why it has become so popular.

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No encore this week; instead, we're featuring two mini interviews with first-time authors who have great stories to tell. Both are friends and former colleagues of mine .... former CBC foreign correspondent Brian Stewart on his new book, On The Ground;  and former CBC field producer Halina St. James on her remarkable book, The Golden Daughter. 

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There are more than two dozen members of Mark Carney's cabinet, but who, aside from Carney himself, is the most powerful, the most influential? That's one of the questions up for discussion this week on Reporter's Notebook with Althia Raj and Rob Russo. The upcoming budget and the PM's trip to the United Nations are also on the agenda.

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Three major issues for Dr Janice Stein today on her regular Monday foreign affairs conversation. What difference, if any, will Canada's recognition of Palestine make? Why the increase in public support of the extreme right in Britain? And Canada is about to spend billions of dollars on defence expenditures -- are we buying the right things?

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Keir Starmer with help from the royals sucked up to Donald Trump this week in a big way. Does that work? Is there something for Canada to learn? Plus, you never want to lose a senior cabinet minister, unless.  Unless you think you are better off without that person. What is the case with Chrystia Freeland? And, Jimmy Kimmel. There's a lot in today's Good Talk with Chantal Hebert, and sitting in for Bruce Anderson this week, former Harper Communications Director, Andrew MacDougall, in London.

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Social media was a much heralded community sharing experience at its inception, but is it still so? It's this week's question and answers came from across the country. Views are divided, and both sides present strong arguments for their opinions. Plus, the Random Ranter drops by with his latest rant -- this time on Jimmy Kimmel's departure from ABC.

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Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on September 1st. Those who follow these things say they're never seen anything like it before. Donald Trump wants a Nobel prize and he's not shy about pushing for one. As The Bridge kicks off season six, our regular Monday contributor, Dr Janice Stein from the Munk School at the University of Toronto makes her view known on that, Ukraine, Russia, China and the Middle East.

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After a week of soul searching in the United States and beyond, James Moore and Gerry Butts take on the question of how to "disagree better". Society is trying to understand if there is an answer to this dilemma of disagreeing with respect and not hate. In the 23rd of their conversations on The Bridge, two top political minds, from different parties, look for a way of achieving non-partisan talk.

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The Second World War began after Germany and Russia invaded Poland. Last week, Russia invaded Poland again in a story that made headlines in North America, but for only 24 hours. We know why the story was eclipsed, but should we revisit? Dr Janice Stein joins us for her regular Monday episode on this and more.

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Five projects, two in BC, one in Saskatchewan, one in Ontario and one in Quebec headline Mark Carney's initial nation building push. Surprisingly perhaps, the list got a big thumbs up from Alberta's premier. Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson are here to discuss that and much more.

During the April election campaign, Mark Carney dropped a lot of hints and some promises about what he would do if Canadians gave him their vote. The question this week, is Carney retreating? You had lots to say. And the Random Ranter drops by with another of his takes on AI.

An encore of Lee McIntyre philosopher & author who's written extensively on the issues of truth & disinformation.

Althia Raj and Rob Russo work the halls and corridors of Parliament Hill every day that the House of Commons is in session. Althia is a senior columnist with the Toronto Star, Rob is the Canadian correspondent for The Economist. They'll alternate Tuesdays with the Moore-Butts Conversations.

Some key elements of the United States military are assembling in force off Venezuela. Is this a real operation or a distraction? A "wag the dog?" Dr. Janice Stein starts with that on her regular Monday conversation on The Bridge.

Recent polls suggest Canadians are now more concerned about basic economic issues than they are about the Carney-Trump talks.  Housing, affordability, inflation and government spending top the list. All this in the run up to an expected October budget, but also at a time when hugely expensive "nation building projects" are on the table. How do you square cuts and spending is up for discussion with Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson.

The first Your Turn of 2025 asks the question, what did you notice about the summer of 2025 and a surprising number of you mention the issue of Artificial Intelligence. Is it a huge advance or does it come at huge cost? AI is also the focus of the Random Ranter as he takes on AI as well.  

One of our loyal listeners wrote in the other day suggesting that instead of our regular Wednesday encore episode that we try a program just of endbits. Enbits have been a popular part of our program over the last few years to fill out shorter programs. So, maybe once a month might be possible as a program on its own? Interesting idea so we decided why not?  

The first Moore Butts conversation of the new season is the 22nd in our series of going behind the doors of political intrigue. In this case, the discussion centres around the negotiations that have to take place if anyone is going to make a trade deal with the US President. Gerald Butts is Justin Trudeau's former principal secretary who was in the room when Canada and Trump hammered out a new trade deal in 2018. James Moore is a former Harper-era cabinet minister, and as always, has thoughts on this subject too.

Those who follow these things say they're never seen anything like it before. Donald Trump wants a Nobel prize and he's not shy about pushing for one. As The Bridge kicks off season six, our regular Monday contributor, Dr Janice Stein from the Munk School at the University of Toronto makes her view known on that, Ukraine, Russia, China and the Middle East. 

Four months and a day since the election and the summer ends with signs that the Carney government is moving on some of its major agenda promises. Or is it? That's the line item for Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson on this our final summer special before our new season begins next week. 

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on May 27th. After the pomp and pageantry of the King's visit, Parliament gets down to work and for a lot of MP's it will be a new experience. How to hit the ground running is the focus of this latest episode of the Moore Butts conversations -- this is #21. Former Conservative cabinet minister James Moore and former principal secretary to a prime minister, Gerald Butts give their thoughts.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on November 19th. A lot of things changed in our world on the night of November 5th when Donald Trump won the US Presidency and began his journey back to the White House. What about climate change? Will concerns about it drop off the radar seeing as many in the new administration are climate deniers? Professor Katharine Hayhoe, an atmospheric scientist who teaches at Texas Tech, makes a return to the Bridge to talk about the latest on the climate debate.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that last aired on November 26th. Ottawa has been studying whether Canada should purchase up to a dozen submarines to help protect Canada's Arctic. It's a program that would cost dozens of billions of dollars. Is it worth it? What is the history of subs in the Arctic? Who's been there, and who hasn't? The answers may surprise you. Our guest is historian and author, Professor Adam Lajeunesse of ST FX University in Nova Scotia.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on October 22nd. Sudan's crisis continues but the world looks away. Why? Dr Samantha Nutt from War Child joins us once again to talk about her overseas travels to some of the planet's most difficult spots. Today, her focus is on Sudan and Afghanistan, both countries she has travelled to this year. This is an important conversation and one many of you have been calling for.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that last aired on July 25th. The statistics are pretty impressive. Canadians are staying home or at least they are staying away from the U.S. in this summer of 2025. This doesn't look like a one off, it could become generational. The deadline for a new trade deal between Canada and the U.S. is one week from today, what are the chances? Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson are here for our first of the summer's Good Talk specials.

The statistics are pretty impressive. Canadians are staying home or at least they are staying away from the U.S. in this summer of 2025. This doesn't look like a one off, it could become generational. The deadline for a new trade deal between Canada and the U.S. is one week from today, what are the chances? Chantal Hebert and Bruce Anderson are here for our first of the summer's Good Talk specials.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on February 18th. The Moore Butts combo is back with a big question -- how do you cut government waste and does Elon Musk have the answer? James Moore, the former Conservative cabinet minister. Gerald Butts, the former Liberal top strategist, get back together on their long running series here on The Bridge to tackle this question.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on January 6th. We are living in strange political times where advice is critical. So who better to get it from than the two political pros who visit the Bridge regularly. And today its advice with a twist from former Conservative cabinet minister James Moore and former Liberal senior strategist Gerald Butts. The twist? Their advice for their political foes -- James for the Liberals, Gerry for the Conservatives.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that last aired on September 30th. Former Conservative Cabinet Minister James Moore and former Liberal insider Gerald Butts get together for another of their popular conversations. This time the issue is the current minority Parliament and whether it can survive much longer. They are very blunt about that question!

An encore of today's topic revolves around the relationship between politicians and reporters.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on June 20th. The rush to get to nation-building projects has seen at least two governments, Ottawa and Queen's Park in Ontario, push for legislation that will speed the process along. That has caused some concern by those who feel the push may be too fast. Chantal Hebert and Rob Russo are here to talk about that and much more.

The rush to get to nation-building projects has seen at least two governments, Ottawa and Queen's Park in Ontario, push for legislation that will speed the process along. That has caused some concern by those who feel the push may be too fast. Chantal Hebert and Rob Russo are here to talk about that and much more.

On this, the final week before the summer break for The Bridge, your letters about your summer plans. In many ways, the letters reveal how Canadians perceive their homeland in the summer of 2025. Plus, the Random Ranter is here with his latest idea for a better housing plan for Canada.

Today an encore presentation of an episode that originally aired on November 19th. A lot of things changed in our world on the night of November 5th when Donald Trump won the US Presidency and began his journey back to the White House. What about climate change? Will concerns about it drop off the radar seeing as many in the new administration are climate deniers? Professor Katharine Hayhoe, an atmospheric scientist who teaches at Texas Tech, makes a return to the Bridge to talk about the latest on the climate debate.

Trump steals the headlines as he skips out early to deal with the Middle East crisis from home. Does that matter?

It's a very dangerous moment as Israel attacks Iran and Iran responds by attacking Israel. What could happen next, and where will it all lead? 

The new Carney government is making a lot of commitments and they all add up, but where's the money coming from to pay for it all?

With Father's Day coming up, your thoughts about your father in particular. The Random Ranter is here too but his message is very different.

An encore of Canadian author, comedian Rick Mercer. If he was still doing his famous rants today what and whom would he be ranting about?

It's taken a long time, but it looks like Canada is finally going to commit two percent of its GDP to defence spending.

With the Ukraine war, the emergence of drones as a major weapon & the demand for new defence spending in the Western alliance, there's a lot to talk about.

Nothing usually ends well when you get into a relationship with Donald Trump. Just ask Elon Musk.

The prime minister & premiers are seeking national projects that will inspire the country & laying the groundwork for a future powerhouse. 

An encore of Journalist Matthew Scace on his book, "Jasper on Fire: Five Days of Hell in a Rocky Mountain Paradise".

Spark President Perry Tsergas sitting in this week. Niigaan Sinclair joins to talk history, about the now defunct Hudson Bay Company. 

Canada hasn't been able to reach 2% of GDP in the past, but now the talk is to get to 3.5 or even 5 percent. What would that do, and how realistic is it?

The royal visit, the throne speech & the 1st question period are over. Now the real work of building the so-called "new Canada" begins. 

This week: A $1.3B operating loss is an attention grabbing headline, but what would you change to improve Canada Post?

An encore of after the pomp and pageantry of the King's visit, Parliament gets down to work and for a lot of MP's it will be a new experience. 

After the pomp and pageantry of the King's visit, Parliament gets down to work and for a lot of MP's it will be a new experience. 

His grip on Israel continues, despite long-time external allies beginning to show distance because of the death and destruction in Gaza.

What have we learned about him that we didn't know the day he was sworn in.

Plus the Random Ranter drops by with something very different but equally important.

An encore of Lee McIntyre philosopher & author who's written extensively on the issues of truth & disinformation.

Then Arlene Bynon about her new podcast series, Calls from a Killer -- the story of her conversations with serial killer Clifford Olson.

An encore of some Liberals who thought they should be in cabinet aren't, and they aren't happy either. 

Some Liberals who thought they should be in cabinet aren't, and they aren't happy either. 

Also, today, the Random Ranter has his thoughts about his part of the country -- the Canadian West.

An encore of historian and author, Professor Adam Lajeunesse of ST FX University in Nova Scotia.

Dr Stein has been at conferences in London & Abu Dhabi & is also about to be at one in Riyadh.

The election result was a minority government. But it was close, which makes the recount story fascinating & for some, controversial.

Carney sits down with Trump, Poilievre fights to hold on to his leadership. But we start with a new Pope.

Your answers are revealing ... and so is the Random Ranter's rant this week, with a subject we don't often talk about.

An encore of Ted Barris on his book, Battle of Britain - Canadian Airmen in Their Finest Hour.

Plus Mark Carney's approach with the media, and what's happening inside the Conservative Party.

The two government leaders meet for their first face to face since Mark Carney assumed office. There's a lot on the table but what is realistic to expect?

How will Carney deal with Trump? Will Poilievre hang on to his job after losing his seat, the election, and his house?

What now after the election? How did you feel? Did you want a minority or a majority? Plus the Random Ranter is here with his analysis of what happened on Monday night and where things may go from here.

An encore of an interview with celebrated Canadian military historian Tim Cook about his latest book hitting the shelves.

Canadians voted, and Mark Carney was the winner, but it was not a majority win, at least not yet.

Whoever wins will be greeted with binders prepared by the public service with briefings on every major issue facing the country.

Millions of Canadians are about to decide, if they haven't already in advance polls, which party & which leader they want to form a government. 

This week's question asked listeners about their decision and how they are making it.  We didn't want to know who you voted for, but rather how you arrived at your decision.  You responded in huge numbers from coast to coast to coast and beyond!  Plus the Random Ranter is here.

An encore of to make Canada's position stronger, should Canadians vote for a majority government? 

What should we be watching for as the leaders hit the final days of their campaigns to woo voters.

There was a time when Canada lost the best and the brightest in a "brain drain" to the United States. Is the reverse beginning to happen now?

Four leaders, one moderator, two hours of debate.  In a five week campaign did those two hours change the shape of Canada's election race?  That's the question for Chantal Hebert and Rob Russo on this week's Good Talk.

For many Canadians, it all comes down to this -- how do the candidates perform in tonight's debate?