We often say that we are smarter than our friends south of the border. This week, we shall see.
A high-stakes clash is currently unfolding in Ottawa as the first budget of the new Liberal government under Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to be introduced today. A vote is not expected for a couple of weeks, though we should know soon what will likely happen. Politicians these days aren’t subtle.
With the Liberals holding 169 seats, they would need at least three members of another party to vote with them, or six people total to abstain or be absent at the key moment.
There are many paths to success with the Conservative Party of Canada (144 MPs), the Bloc Québécois (22 MPs), and the NDP (seven MPs) all having a say.
I will speak for all of us when I say what we don’t want is a Christmas election.
The United States is currently involving in the longest shutdown on record, currently tied with one from Trump’s first term.
Public opinion is declining for both sides, as it should, as good governments find ways to work together and get things done, and not leave people twisting in the wind.
Our own government was shutdown for months in 2025, first after it was prorogued, then we had the election, and the summer break. As trade disputes, internal issues, and international commitments need our attention, we have been idle for too long already.
It’s time to get things done, not spend weeks on new promises and rhetoric. Elections are magical things, but I have seen enough political theatre for this year, at least.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
(PAUL MARTIN)
