Cross Country Checkup from CBC Radio

Mark Carney hasn't been on the job for long, but a lot has already happened during his time in office. The trade dispute with the U.S. continues. Donald Trump announced new tariffs on Thursday. He ended the consumer carbon tax, passed Bill C-5 - aimed at fast-tracking 'nation-building' projects, and he has made pledges to end barriers to interprovincial trade by Canada Day and to boost military spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035, an increase that could cost $150 billion per year.Our question: What grade are you giving Prime Minister Mark Carney, so far?

Political differences can be a minefield among family and friends, trade tensions. new tariff threats from Donald Trump. "Elbows Up' and calls to “Buy Canadian", there's a shift happening —not just policy, but how many Canadians relate to their neighbours south of the border. It's changing what many people buy, where we travel - even how we talk to American family, friends and coworkers.Our question: What conversations are you having with Americans? How are the Canada-US relationships going in your life?

According to a survey, four out of ten people said they were planning to leave their jobs earlier this year. So whether you decided to quit your job to follow your passion, left the corporate world for a more quiet life, or maybe you're weighing the decision to quit right now, how did you know it was the right time to leave your job? How did that decision change your path?

The job picture is bleak for young people right now. Canadian youth between the ages of 15 to 24 are facing the highest unemployment rate since the mid-90's, the only exception —the pandemic years. According to numbers from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, the jobless rate for young people has been rising faster here in the past two years than any other major economy. How are you seeing this play out in your own life, or with your friends and family?Our question: How are you affected by youth unemployment? What's your summer job search story?

In many schools across the country, this was, among other things, the year of the cell phone ban. Six Canadian provinces restricted cell phone use in the classroom. In May, the province of Quebec announced a full ban —zero phone use from the first to the last bell— starting next September. We wanted to hear from students, teachers, administrators, parents, anyone with first hand experience in the classroom.Our question: How did your school's cell phone ban go this year? What impact did it have?

This summer millions of Canadians will trek, hike, camp in our great outdoors like never before, which means more human encounters with Canadian wildlife. Have you come face to face with a moose, beaver or caribou? One of those frozen-in-time moments you'll never forget?Our question: What was your unexpected encounter with a wild animal?

On Saturday, US bombers attacked 3 nuclear sites inside Iran, including the Fordo uranium enrichment plant - a site which is vital to Iran's nuclear capabilities. Israel has said they were in "full coordination" with these attacks. The next morning, US Defence Secretary said the US has "devastated the Iranian nuclear program". It is an ominous escalation in the Iran-Israel War - one that has implications for civilians in Iran, Israel and across the Middle East and anyone who has friends or family in the region.Our question: What questions do you have about the Israel-Iran war? How does it affect you?

In 1998, Canada achieved what health officials call "measles elimination status" but now the country could lose that designation. Ontario is reporting more measles cases each week than it once saw over an entire decade. And just earlier this month Ontario's Ministry of Health has announced the first recorded death of a measles patient. Alberta is also experiencing its worst measles outbreak since the mid 90s. And according to the Pan American Health Organization, Canada has more cases than any other country in the Americas. At the same time, vaccine hesitancy has grown nationally along with a drop in measles immunization rates which is prompting some to call for mandatory childhood measles vaccination. An Angus Reid poll conducted last month found that 69% of Canadians agreed that vaccinations should be mandatory for kids.Our question: Should a childhood measles vaccination be mandatory?

Closing arguments in the sex assault trial for 5 former world junior hockey players concluded on Friday. All five accused men have pleaded not guilty to alleged sexual assaults at a London, Ontario hotel in June 2018. The woman at the centre of the case told the judge she agreed to go back to the hotel and have sex with one of the players but didn't consent to what happened later.Our question: Why is it so hard to talk about consent? What conversations are you having with the people in your life?

Alberta plans to implement new rules for "age-appropriate" books in school libraries after parent groups flagged four books, saying they contained sexually explicit content not suitable for younger readers. But critics say the review is unfairly targeting 2SLGBTQ+ books and promoting intolerance toward those communities in the processOur question: Who should decide what books are too explicit for schools? At what point does restricting graphic content turn into censorship?

There's no question artificial intelligence is catapulting human capability to new heights, if it's used properly and ethically, and there's the question. University students are using it more than ever before, according to some surveys more than 80%, sometimes to help them with their work, and sometimes to do it for them. And that brings us to the workplace where AI use can be a source of competitive advantage or unethical and even harmful outcomes without appropriate human intervention.Our question: Are you falling behind because everybody else is using AI to get ahead? Is AI creating a generation of cheaters or achievers?

The size and scale of this year's wildfire season already lead to two states of emergency in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, leaving thousands of evacuees scrambling to leave their homes and seek shelter. In Manitoba, Pukatawagan First Nation is boxed in by wildfire, with planes and helicopters scrambling to get everyone out, and the entire city of Flin Flon has just been cleared, leaving fire crews to fight the out of control wildfire. There are nearly 200 wildfires burning across Canada right noW, and the forecast for hot, dry weather in many parts of Manitoba and Saskatchewan are not looking promising. What questions do you have about wildfire preparedness and response? 

Your perspective on oil and gas pipelines may have changed over the last few months. When Donald Trump launched his trade war with Canada, protecting Canadian sovereignty quickly became a hot topic, and with that, concerns about energy independence. But the wildfires in Canada right now are a reminder of some of the other considerations when it comes to our pipeline policies. Most scientists say the connection is clear between an increase in intense wildfires and climate change. So how do you balance dealing the economic threats from an unpredictable U.S. president and the dangers of the climate crisis? Does Canada need another pipeline?Our question: With wildfires and a trade war with the US, does Canada need another pipeline? 

"Elbows up", "Not for Sale", "Buy Canadian", there have been a handful of slogans that have emerged from the trade war with U.S. President Donald Trump. And "Buy Canadian" is more than a slogan, it's a goal. But as the months have gone by are you still buying Canadian? Labels are sometimes confusing, product of Canada, made in Canada, proudly Canadian, and if you're looking for a washer and dryer, or TV, good luck. Our question: What's preventing you from buying Canadian? What questions do you have?

Cleaning out a parent or grandparents home can be emotional, and adding to that is what to do with all the stuff.Is that fine china a valuable family heirloom, or old dishes that no one is ever going to use? What if your grandfather really wants you to have that black velvet painting? Or maybe two or three siblings really want that butter dish?Our question: What are you going to do with all those unwanted family heirlooms?

One out of every four cars sold this year worldwide will be electric according to the International Energy Agency. But here in Canada it's hard to remember the last time the EV industry felt like it was on such shaky ground. Honda announced this week it's postponing its plans for a big electric vehicle manufacturing project. And StatsCanada tells us that sales for EVs fell by 44 percent in March from the previous year. This is after the federal government ended its zero emission vehicle rebate in January.Our question: What questions do you have about the future of EVs? 

Canadian travel is expected to boom over the next few months, with more Canadians choosing to stay in the country and avoid summer vacations to the U.S. And it's not just Canadians boycotting U.S. travel. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, international travel to the U.S. is expected to drop by $12.5 billion.So, whether it's visiting the Rocky Mountains, camping in Algonquin park, or seeing the northern lights, Canada is full of vacation gems.Our question: What was your best Canadian vacation? Why would you recommend it to a friend?

This program aired on Mother's Day, a day when many of you were finding ways to show appreciation for the mothers in your lives. But what about the rest of the year? Who does those endless household chores? New research out of the University of Alberta confirms that when it comes to male-female couples, women are still doing most of the of housework. Whether it's doing laundry or meal prep, who does what around the house can become a source of tension in any partnership. Our question: Who does the housework in your family? How is the division of labour affecting your relationship?

For many Canadians, this has been a time of surging national pride, much of it prompted by a reaction to Donald Trump and his threats to our sovereignty. But at the same time, the federal election results suggested an increased polarization in the country. in Alberta, the provincial government wants to make it easier to hold a referendum on separation. Premier Danielle Smith says she doesn't support separation but wants what she calls a fair deal for Alberta with the Prime Minister.Our question today: Do you feel like Canada is united right now? What is bringing us together – and what is pulling us apart?

Whether it's going back to school or picking up a new instrument, learning something new can open new doors and help people stay connected. According to the National Institute on Aging, staying engaged in meaningful activities or learning new skills as you grow older can have important cognitive benefits. Our question: What new skill or hobby did you pick up later in life? How did it change your perspective?

The Liberals have won a fourth term and even though they secured the most seats, their share of the popular vote was only 2 percentage points higher than the Conservatives. And 85 percent of voters went for one of those two parties, leaving the other parties with the electoral scraps. Were people trying to vote strategically?Our question: Do you feel well-represented by Canadian democracy? If not, what would you change?

Monday is election day and Canadians are seizing on this critical moment. Already, more than 7 million Canadians cast their ballots in advanced polls, breaking records for early voting turnout. As each party tries to hone their messaging to shore up the seats they need, we've heard from you throughout this election about how the cost of living, tensions with the U.S. and housing are factoring into your vote. And for some, their party loyalty has been shifting throughout the campaign. Our question: What compelled you to switch your vote? Which issue hits closest to home?

While Trump and tariffs have been a huge concern for many Canadians, some polls suggest the leading issue in this election is aIaffordability and the cost of living. Grocery prices, rent and housing costs have been on the rise for years and economists are warning the trade war will likely trigger higher inflation.Our question: Which pocketbook issue will sway your vote? Which party is looking out for your wallet?

Our world is cluttered with ads, not just on tv and radio, but billboards, hockey rinks, and online. But every once in a while, one of them breaks through the noise.  Some of the jingles or slogans stick with us, and become part of our language. Former ad-man Terry O'Reilly's show is celebrating 20 years on CBC, and he's here to share stories about his and your favorite ads.Our question: Which ads, jingles or taglines should be inducted into Advertising Hall of Fame?

Many people are describing this federal election as the most important in decades. And in a campaign where the Liberals have been leading in the polls for weeks, Thursday night's final federal leaders' debate may have been the last significant opportunity for the leaders to win your vote. Our question: What's your debate highlight? Is there an issue that didn't get enough attention? 

According to a survey published this month by Abacus Data, 65 per cent of Canadians believe the next federal government should increase defence spending. Abacus also found that more than a third of Canadians want party leaders to be talking about national defence and security in this election. This comes as the government says the Armed Forces are well below its target for what it describes as "training, readiness and operational requirements".Our question: Does Canadian military spending need to change? How will it affect your vote?

With every move Trump makes on tariffs, the stock market reacts. His so-called “Liberation Day” on April 2nd ushered in a wave of volatility and deep losses in global financial markets. Trump then announced a 90 day pause on retaliatory tariffs for most countries which lead to a mid-week surge then another drop. On Friday, General Motors announced a summer-long halt to production in Ingersoll, Ontario, adding to worries about the long term effects of this trade war and what comes next..Our question: Market turmoil, and tariffs: What do you stand to lose? What questions do you have about surviving it?

According to Statistics Canada, nearly 45 per cent of Canadians are concerned about housing affordability because of the rising cost of renting or buying. For many people it's the biggest payment they have to make every month. The cost of housing can affect the decisions you make for your family, like the community you live in and schools your kids attend.Our question: Whether you're buying or renting, what do you need to find affordable housing? How will it affect your vote?

In the wake of Canada's strained relationship with the US, travelling for some Canadians has become increasingly difficult. Stories of Canadian travellers being stopped or even detained at the border have become more common, and are causing stress among vacationers. The Canadian government has also issued a travel advisory reminding Canadians that US border agents can act with “significant discretion” which includes searching your phone or laptop and soon the US will require Canadians staying 30 days or longer to register online with the U.S. government. Our question: Are you worried about traveling to and from the U.S.? How is Donald Trump changing your travel plans?

According to a survey by TransUnion, a credit reporting company, in 2024, 54% of Canadians said they were recently targeted by email, phone call or text message fraud attempts. The impacts can be devastating and costly.Our question: What's your phone or cyber scam story? How do you protect yourself? 

The trade war has left thousands of Canadian workers in a precarious position. Trump says on Wednesday, April 2nd a 25 per cent tariff on vehicles made outside the U.S. will come into effect. Ontario Premier Doug Ford suggested the tariff may not apply to all vehicles coming from Canada, but there's no predicting what Trump will do, and so the uncertainty and anxiety continues for autoworkers, their employers, and suppliers too.Our question: What impact is the trade war having on your job security? How does that affect your vote?

Before Elon Musk joined forces with Donald Trump, Tesla dominated the US electric vehicle market with some of the best-selling EVs in North America. But starting this year, Tesla became the target of protest and vandalism across the US, not long after Musk was accused of a Nazi salute, and began firing thousands of federal workers in Washington, DC. Here in Canada there have been protests in several cities, and just this past week Teslas have been burned in Calgary and over 80 were damaged at a dealership in Hamilton.Our question: Whether you own a Tesla or not, what's your reaction to all the backlash? 

Canada's 45th General Election is officially underway. For the next four weeks, the political parties will be doing what they can to get your vote. And whoever you support, no matter what the latest opinion polls suggest, your vote matters. Even in ridings where it may seem like a foregone conclusion, every vote is a reminder that even in those regions, there is a diversity of political views.Our question: What's exciting you about this election? What issue matters most? 

The trade war with Donald Trump has left many Canadians angry and worried. In response to Trump's steel and aluminium tariffs, Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imported goods worth $29.8 billion. But Trump is not backing down, and is still continuing with his “51st state” taunts. So, how should Canada respond? What options do we have? Carlo Dade is the director of international policy in the school of public policy at the University of Calgary. He is also a senior fellow at the Canada West Foundation. He joined us to take caller questions about Canada's tariff retaliation plan. 

Donald Trump's unpredictable, unrelenting tariff announcements and his threats to our sovereignty have turned things upside down. Some Canadians have responded by taking action: boycotting US products or cancelling trips south of the border. But the uncertainty is weighing heavily on lots of Canadians.Our question: What impact is all the Trump turbulence having on your mental health?In the last half hour: tariff retaliation. Our expert answers questions about the Donald Trump's trade war and how aggressive Canada should get.

It was just over two months ago that Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as Prime Minister, kicking off the search for the next leader of the Liberal party.  All of this is happening against the backdrop of a seemingly continuous stream of Trump tariff-threats designed to upend the Canadian economy. So as the Liberal party prepares to enter a new chapter, Canadians across the political spectrum are left wondering which leader has what it takes to take on Trump 2.0?Our question: Who should be the next Liberal leader? Who do you think is strong enough to take on Donald Trump? 

There are six and a half million Canadians without a family doctor. That means more people waiting too long to get treatment or diagnosis, more pressure on emergency departments. Our question: How are you coping without a family doctor? What impact has it had on your health?

The U.S. and Canada have been long-time allies and neighbours. But when US President Donald Trump began musing and then doubling and tripling down on Canada as the "51st state" tensions pushed us to the brink of a trade war. Then, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told a group of business leaders on a "hot mic" that Donald Trump's 51st state comments are not a joke but in fact “a real thing”. And after meeting Canadian premiers, deputy White House chief of staff, James Blair cautioned them to take Donald Trump's comments about the 51st state "at face value”. But while some see this as an attack on Canadian sovereignty, others believe the President is trolling and seeking negotiation leverage for the next round of trade talks.Our question: What do you think of Trump's comments about Canada becoming the 51st state?

Right now, more than 77 per cent of Canada's exports go to the U.S. But with the threat of Trump's tariffs just weeks away, Canada is also looking to stretngthen trading relationships with other countries. So how feasible is it for Canada to expand its footprint in other markets? Our AMA brought in a panel of experts to explore that question. Moshe Lander is a Senior Lecturer in Economics at Concordia University. And Laura Dawson is the Executive Director of the Future Borders Coalition, an organization dedicated to better trade relations between the U.S. and Canada.

With every tariff threat Donald Trump makes and every casual reference to our country being the 51st state, Canadians have been responding. From Canadian flags on cars to flags draped over porch railings, Canadians are finding a newfound sense of patriotism. What impact has Donald Trump's tariff threats had on you? Has it made you reflect on what it means to be Canadian?And for our AMA, we brought in a panel of guests to dig deeper into Canada's trading relationships. Moshe Lander is a Senior Lecturer in Economics at Concordia University. And Laura Dawson is the Executive Director of the Future Borders Coalition, an organization dedicated to better trade relations between the U.S. and Canada.

When it comes to sports betting, one thing is beyond debate: Super Bowl Sunday, is a betting bonanza. A Leger survey of Ontario bettors suggest millions of people in that province alone will be placing wagers. For many people it adds a little excitement to the game, but for others, sports gambling opens a door that can lead to a life-changing addiction.Our question: What impact has sports betting had on your life? How far is too far?

With the US tariff threat now on hold until March 4th, Trudeau has pledged $1.3 billion in new spending and a so-called “Fentanyl Czar” to curb illicit drugs at the border. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre wants Parliament to resume while issuing a new pledge life sentences for those convicted of trafficking fentanyl.With a Liberal leadership race and a federal election on the horizon voters are now thinking about who's the best leader to face Donald Trump at the negotiating table. Our question: What grade are you giving the Trudeau government on Trump's tariff threat? How will it affect your vote?