#onpoli, a TVO podcast

For third time ever, the monarch read the Government of Canada's speech from the throne. King Charles III reiterated Canada's sovereignty and ran through a laundry list of government priorities. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the speech. The Government of Ontario is amending Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, after pressure from Indigenous groups. Steve and JMM dig into the changes the bill is pushing forward and what opposition groups can do to keep it from passing. The Ontario Greens and Ontario Liberals are co-sponsoring a bill to tackled homelessness in the province. Aislinn Clancy says building bridges within the legislature is part of what she ran on and a bill like this could help end this issue within a decade. The #onpoli podcast recorded this episode at the Isabel Bader Theatre at Victoria University at the University of Toronto. Special thanks to everyone who came out! Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-the-51st-state-nonsense-is-over-someone-should-tell-the-president JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/is-it-time-for-a-canadian-automakerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 19-year-old man is facing impaired driving charges after a crash that killed three children. The incident has some wondering if the province needs to implement even tougher rules for driving under the influence. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath weigh on what's happened and what's been done. Municipalities across Ontario are installing speed and red light cameras, but Premier Doug Ford isn't too happy hearing from drivers who are getting fined. Steve and JMM look at the new rules the province is introducing for these systems. The province's latest housing bill was published right before the budget, so the guys dig into the details there and whether or not these changes will increase housing starts. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-can-ontarios-colleges-survive-another-60-years JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-you-cant-make-housing-more-affordable-without-making-it-cheaper Live show details: onpoli-live.eventbrite.caSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario has delivered its budget for 2025 during an uncertain time for the Canadian economy. Steve Paikin, John Michael McGrath, and Jessica Smith Cross discuss the ins and outs of the budget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has sent a letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney outlining what projects he believes are in Ontario's best economic interest. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how the relationship between the two levels of government is unfolding. Ontario's budget is being delivered on May 15th, but, unlike in the past, announcements on the province's spending aren't tightly guarded secrets. Steve and John Michael examine what's been announced so far and how much it will cost you. The Ontario Liberals have official party status, which gives them privileges at Queen's Park that they haven't had for a while. It's a big change for them, but they're still limited in what they can do faced by a majority government. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/my-lunch-with-old-political-friends JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-can-trump-destroy-ontarios-film-industry TVO Today Live: https://www.tvo.org/tvo-today-live President Trump Participates in a Bilateral Meeting with the Prime Minister of Canada, May 6, 2025 - The White House/youtube.com Bonnie Crombie media studio appearance: Courtesy Ontario Parliamentary NetworkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford launched into a tirade against Ontario's judges during a press conference about strengthening the province's bail system. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how we got to the point where the premier says we need to elect judges. The Financial Accountability Office of Ontario has dire news on the impact of Donald Trump's tariffs. How bad will the economic fallout be? And the measles outbreak is ongoing, so where is Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore? Steve and John Michael dig into why the doctor is keeping out of the spotlight. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-the-most-important-thing-you-didnt-hear-on-election-night JMM's column: (coming soon) T-shirt image of Frank Miller - Anthony Miles/King's Printer for Ontario/wikipedia.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was by a narrow margin that Liberal leader Mark Carney declared victory last night to become Canada's 24th prime minister. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the race as it unfolded and the role Ontario's voters played. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-they-left-queens-park-for-ottawa-did-voters-follow JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-what-mark-carney-must-learn-from-kathleen-wynneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minister of Education Paul Calandra is sending investigators to several school boards in Ontario to probe their finances, and, in one case, is recommending the ministry take control. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this happened. Could Donald Trump's trade threats lead to an improved interprovincial electrical transmission system? Advocates certainly hope that's the case, and it would be much needed as consumption is set to rise 75% by 2050. The province and its doctors have reached an agreement that should benefit patients in rural communities. Steve and JMM dig into the details and how this plays into the government's promise to connect every Ontarian with a family doctor. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/and-thats-the-agenda-thanks-for-watching JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-the-ford-government-unveiled-its-latest-economic-cheat-code-will-it-work Grassy Narrows River Run report: https://www.ontario.ca/page/final-report-review-toronto-district-school-boards-excursion-policy-and-procedureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath look back on the Federal debate where Liberal Party Leader Mark Carney, Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh duked it out. Who was the big winner? Who was the big loser? Who had the best moment? Will this change the election's outcome? What's it like watching this from the moderator's ringside seat? They also talk about what happened after the debate as leaders shook hands and spoke to one another. And what happened with the post-debate scrum that was cancelled. More on that here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/rebel-news-rightwing-media-press-conferences-debates-1.7512714 Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/everything-you-didnt-see-at-the-leaders-debate JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-ontario-will-spend-more-this-year-than-last-what-will-we-get-for-itSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Members of provincial Parliament have returned to Queen's Park and there's already a flurry of activity. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the first week back and what's to come. Flamborough-Glanbrook MPP Donna Skelly was elected as the legislature's first female Speaker. It's an important role in the parliamentary system, and Steve and JMM take a deeper dive into what she'll be expected to do. The New York Times has published an investigation into Therme Group alleging the company misled the Province of Ontario during its submission process to build a spa on Toronto's waterfront. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/why-moderating-a-leaders-debate-is-like-refereeing-a-hockey-game JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-ontarios-free-trade-announcement-sounds-important-is-it New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/16/world/canada/therme-spa-ontario-canada.htmlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 90-day reprieve on Donald Trump's global tariffs do not extend to Canada, so Ontario is offering tax breaks for businesses. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss why these temporary measures might need to be followed by long term solutions. There will be a 2-year feasibility study into Doug Ford's plan for a tunnel underneath the 401. Steve and JMM discuss the project's inevitable high price tag and other ways the province could ease congestion. The province is expanding strong mayor powers to 169 more municipalities in Ontario. These powers had already been given to mayors in larger cities to cut through red tape and get housing built, but is that happening? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/three-former-political-adversaries-on-how-to-handle-trump JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-do-american-unions-really-believe-trumps-anti-globalist-visionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's Liberation Day has unleashed a suite of tariffs on the world, but Canada has escaped any additional ones. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath examine what effect the tariffs Canada is facing are having on the economy. A former executive assistant to Premier Doug Ford violated the province's lobbying rules, according to Integrity Commissioner J. David Wake. The violations occurred during lobbying for clients' land to be removed from the Greenbelt. Nico Fidani-Diker also offered Toronto Maple Leafs tickets to "public office holders" putting them into conflict of interest. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath examine the latest chapter in the Greenbelt scandal and the implications for the RCMP investigation into it. With every election comes inevitable "bozo eruptions," which is when a politicians is caught saying something unsavoury, which sometimes gets them kicked out of elected politics. Steve and JMM examine a few stories including former Liberal candidate Paul Chiang, and how Mark Carney fumbled his response. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/ive-covered-many-elections-i-wish-i-could-discuss-this-one-with-some-absent-friends JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-canadians-are-talking-about-big-projects-lets-try-small-ones-first Tariffs in Canada, explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzCThKVMlkg&tSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has called a snap election for April 28. John Michael McGrath and The Trillium's Jessica Smith Cross discuss how the Liberal Party's fortunes have changed amidst United States President Donald Trump's trade threats. John Michael and Jess examine the "Trump bump" and how Canada's premiers are benefiting from it, including Doug Ford, who has seen his approval rating skyrocket. A number of supervised consumption sites are set to close in Ontario at the start of April. Contradictory statements from lawyer representing the province and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones on whether these sites can relocate are confusing advocates for the sites.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's unusual to have both the Prime Minister of Canada and Premier of Ontario swear in their cabinets at the same time, so Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath compare and contrast the different approaches. A legal challenge from cyclists in Toronto has failed and now Doug Ford will likely go ahead with the removal of bike lanes in the city. Here's what could happen next and some insight into the consequences of this fight for one Tory MPP. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-did-the-opposition-parties-help-ford-win-another-majority JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-the-consumer-carbon-tax-is-dead-its-effects-will-live-on Have a comment or question? Email: onpolitics@tvo.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug Ford imposed an electricity surcharge on Monday, Donald Trump responded with doubling the tariffs on steel and aluminum, and then they called the whole thing off. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath examine a chaotic week in Canada and United States trade relations. Doug Ford's team at Queen's Park is going to look a lot like the old team with few MPPs losing their seats during the last election. The government will also deliver a full budget, and Steve and John Michael speculate what might be in that. The Supreme Court of Canada struck down Doug Ford's third party election spending law, which is a win for unions and civil society groups. Will the government use the notwithstanding clause to get it passed? Or will they drop this altogether? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-what-is-chrystia-freelands-next-job Steve's other column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-can-mark-carney-avoid-repeating-history JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-should-doug-ford-do-with-voting-reform-what-he-did-with-beer-and-wineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sweeping tariffs have hit Canada, Mexico, and China sending markets into disarray. Canada has responded with retaliatory tariffs and Doug Ford has vowed a strong response from Ontario. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what's next in Donald Trump's war against the world. Are members of provincial Parliament due for a raise? Doug Ford thinks so and not long after his third majority win. What's the future for Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie? As she goes into a leadership review, Steve and John Michael wonder what lies ahead as she remains seatless. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-whats-next-for-bonnie-crombie JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-what-if-doug-fords-energy-threats-backfireSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug Ford has won himself a third majority at the end of Ontario's 44th general election. Meanwhile, Marit Stiles and the NDP retain their status as official opposition while Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie lost her chance for a seat in Mississauga. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath catch up on the aftermath of the election and what comes next. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-how-doug-ford-wrote-his-way-into-the-history-books JMM's column: (coming soon)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario Progressive Conservative party has released its platform just days before the election. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into the details of what's being promised and why the accounting might not all be there. In the dying days of the Ontario 2025 election, the party leaders are still on the road. Steve and John Michael look into where they are and how the races are going in their home ridings. And the 2025 Ontario Election Candidates Debate on Disability Issues took place last week. The guys look into the concerns of Ontarians with disabilities and what the parties are saying they will do to help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalists Sabrina Nanji and Émilie Gougeon-Pelletier join Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath to discuss party efforts in the final stretch of the Ontario 2025 election. Despite the Conservative lead in the polls, there are some tight races. The group discusses some ridings where the contest is heating up. We also discuss the French-language debate that took place this week and what came from that. And the group tackles some controversial comments made by candidates throughout the election and if it will have any effect. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-can-lightning-strike-twice-for-the-greens-in-kitchener-centre JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-what-the-ndp-and-liberal-platforms-say-and-why-it-mattersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family Day marked the final leaders' debate during the 2025 Ontario Election. Bonnie Crombie, Marit Stiles, and Mike Schreiner were on the offensive while Doug Ford made an apology over the Greenbelt. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dissect the event and how each leader fared. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/for-family-day-a-father-son-political-profile JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-will-someone-please-talk-about-housingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, was in Washington this past week alongside Canada's other premiers trying to make headway on the tariff threat. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this trip defies norms and why the opposition leaders say it probably didn't help. Ontario's post-secondary sector is facing a huge financial crisis and parties are laying out their plans on how to fix it; however, the Ontario Liberal plan is getting bashed by advocates. The Ontario Green Party has released its platform entitled "Our Plan For Fairness." Steve and John Michael dig into the details and see what policy ideas other parties might steal. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-can-this-liberal-candidate-jump-from-journalism-to-queens-park JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-theres-no-negotiating-with-donald-trump-on-tariffsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Super Bowl Sunday had a little injection of Ontario politics with the Ontario Liberal Party and the Ontario Progressive Conservatives buying ad space during the big game. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the strategy and if it will move the needle. United States President Donald Trump has hit Canada with tariffs on steel and aluminum. How does that impact Ontario's economy? Steve and John Michael discuss the implication for our province and its auto industry. What have the parties promised in order to tackle the various healthcare crises we're facing in Ontario? And are these promises doable?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath are joined by Jessica Smith Cross, editor in chief of the Trillium and Charlie Pinkerton, reporter at the Trillium, to discuss the latest update in the Greenbelt scandal. Premier Doug Ford has received plenty of endorsements this election campaign, and mayors are now entering the game. The team discuss the new trend and why local politicians are weighing in. Ontario Progressive Conservative candidates have been told not to participate in local debates and to instead focus on door knocking. What effect does this have on our democracy? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/politics-doesnt-have-to-be-so-impolite-just-ask-my-lunch-dates JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-cancelling-starlink-is-easy-trump-proofing-ontarios-electricity-will-be-hardSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trump tariffs may be on pause, but they’ve taken over the narrative of this Ontario election campaign. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how this looming threat is changing the race and heating up rhetoric between party leaders. The Liberals are determined to keep the focus on Doug Ford’s health care record with a bright-red campaign bus. And Steve and John Michael discuss the Conservatives's labour union endorsements, including fire fighters, a public sector union, that has benefitted under Ford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The election campaign is on for the Province of Ontario. Voters will head to the polls on February 27. Doug Ford, Marit Stiles, Bonnie Crombie, and Mike Schreiner will now vie for leadership as Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath expand their coverage during the writ period. The Financial Accountability Office probed Doug Ford's plan to expand alcohol access early, and taxpayers could be picking up a $1.4 billion tab. Ontario New Democratic Party leader Marit Stiles says, if elected, she will eliminate tolls on Highway 407 for everyone, but is that a good plan? Steve and John Michael dive into the costs. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/saying-goodbye-to-the-loveliest-person-ive-ever-met-in-ontario-politics JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-this-provincial-election-isnt-just-about-trump-its-also-about-ottawaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As early as next week, Premier Doug Ford could call an election in Ontario. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath go over what comes next. The Rural Ontario Municipal Association have just wrapped up their annual meeting. Steve and John Michael discuss how Premier Doug Ford dropped an election bombshell on the event and how the opposition reacted. Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States and is now threatening punishing tariffs as soon as Feb. 1. What happens next and will Canada be able to escape this economic threat? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-justin-trudeau-joe-biden-and-a-growing-club-leaders-who-dont-know-when-to-leave JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-why-amo-is-getting-into-election-advertising Nerds on Politics "Another election?": https://youtu.be/BbEKb_jCBwU?si=EvZDFRxIYsMkgaui Nerds on Politics "Why you never drop a writ": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdyQJtAzbjISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Premier Doug Ford says he needs a fresh mandate to combat Donald Trump's tariffs, but opposition MPPs believe he has all the tools he needs already. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss why the premier may be pushing for an early election. The province moved some ServiceOntario locations to Staples Canada, which they said would save taxpayers money. The Financial Accountability Office of Ontario says otherwise. What will you do with the $200 cheque coming your way from the provincial government? One website is pitching Ontarians on donating the money to charitable organizations. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-how-doug-ford-became-an-unlikely-figure-of-national-unity JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-why-ontario-is-betting-big-on-nuclear-powerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he would resign. The move has many speculating whether Ontario Premier Doug Ford will still call an early election. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next and why Donald Trump is calling for the United States to annex Canada. There's little financial security in becoming a Member of Provincial Parliament as former Scarborough Southwest MPP Lorenzo Berardinetti has experienced. Steve and John Michael discuss his story and the trouble with the housing crisis in Ontario. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act set January 1 2025 as a deadline for making the province accessible. Disability advocates say the there's still a long way to go. Steve and John Michael discuss what more needs to be done. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-doug-fords-most-difficult-decision-yet-just-got-a-whole-lot-more-complicated MM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-get-ready-for-ontario-to-become-an-election-battleground Nerds on Politics: How do parties pick their leaders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZmQDmiaAm0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where does freedom of religion end, and freedom from discrimination begin? In 2019, a Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) trustee's provocative and polarizing remarks ignited a firestorm. Michael Del Grande argued that if protections for queer and trans individuals were added to the TCDSB code of conduct, then protections should also be added for those who commit pedophilia and cannibalism. His comments sparked outrage, legal battles, and a fierce debate that continues to shape discussions on sex, gender, and inclusion in Ontario's Catholic schools. Teachers, students, parents, and politicians remain deeply divided. Who holds the power to define the future of queer and trans inclusion in education? How does the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity impact religious rights? In a new series from TVO Podcasts, co-hosts Matt Nethersole and Tiff Lam delve into the ways that human rights, sexuality, gender, religion, and politics are colliding in Ontario's Catholic schools-and beyond. In this episode, they speak to a 2SLGBTQ+ advocate fighting for change in Catholic schools, a former Ontario premier who thinks school boards can do more to comply with Ministry expectations and a historian explains the connection between Catholic schools and the birth of Canada. To listen to the full series, visit http://tvo.org/podcasts/queriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug Ford is threatening to turn off the province's energy exports to the United States, as a measure to combat proposed tariffs from president-elect Donald Trump. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what seems like an inevitable tit-for-tat tariff war. The Ford government has put forward its proposed legislation on how to end homeless encampments across the province. And Steve and JMM take a look at some end of session bills and why they might be telling on the timing of a spring election. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/david-frum-on-canadian-history-and-the-battlefield-of-ideas JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-new-legislation-shows-that-ontario-is-still-digesting-the-lessons-of-the-pandemic Ontario Road Map: https://www.publications.gov.on.ca/109168_USee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year, the Auditor General of Ontario releases an annual report detailing how money was spent in the Province of Ontario. This year's report has called some of the province's dealings "not fair, transparent, or accountable." Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down the findings. Phil Verster, the embattled CEO of Metrolinx, has resigned. With the Eglinton LRT still unopened, we look back on his tenure in the role and what still needs to get done. Ontario is spending millions on primetime ads on Fox News in hopes of avoiding tariffs. Will this gambit work or are we in for some inevitable pain? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/my-final-conversation-with-one-of-the-really-good-guys-of-politics-0 JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/can-ontario-get-nuclear-power-plants-built-in-new-places-were-about-to-find-outSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's trade threats have caused mass economic panic. Doug Ford and Justin Trudeau have threatened retaliatory tactics. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next and if this is just the president-elect's bluster. Ontario's post-secondary sector is facing a financial crisis with Sheridan College unveiling cuts to programming and staff lay offs. So, why is the provincial government ignoring the blue-ribbon panel that offered concrete solutions? The Ontario New Democratic Party and Marit Stiles have called on the integrity commissioner to investigate the province's fundraising targets. The Ontario Liberals and Bonnie Crombie have unveiled documents showing the desperate state of the family doctor crisis. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/admiration-for-trump-wont-win-ontario-politicians-any-brownie-points JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-fords-plan-a-for-the-next-trump-article-has-already-failedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario New Democratic party are pitching a new deal for municipalities that include re-uploading big costs to the province. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the plan and react to Marit Stiles's appointment of former Toronto Mayor David Miller to a special position. Mississauga mayor Carolyn Parrish has found herself in hot water over a cancelled vigil to former Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and comparing him to Nelson Mandela. So, why was Doug Ford's reaction so tame? Ontario has a found another potential site for long term storage for nuclear waste. Steve and JMM discuss why this facility will play a large role in the development of a clean energy future for the province. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/hockey-hall-of-famer-dick-duff-is-still-telling-stories-at-age-88 JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-cities-need-a-new-deal-what-should-they-have-to-give-up-to-get-oneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie has made her first major election campaign promise: a tax cut for the middle class. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how the Liberals are trying to outflank the Tories on the cost of living crisis. We now know the cost of the province's plan to remove bike lanes from Toronto's streets: $48 million. Can the city stop the removal? Receiving presumptive care has gotten a little easier for wildland firefighters; however, union leaders argue the changes don't go far enough. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/toronto-honours-former-ontario-cabinet-minister-david-caplan JMM's column:See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has been elected the 47th president of the United States. What are the implications for Ontario's economy? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what sectors will be impacted the most. The Ontario Liberal Party has a new line of attack on the family doctor shortage in the province. Ontario integrity commissioner is retiring early, so what happens to the office's investigations? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/this-remembrance-day-richard-rohmer-will-be-returning-to-queens-park John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-legalize-housing-is-a-taller-order-than-queens-park-realizesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fall economic statement shows the province is raking in more money than previously thought, but is it enough to justify a $200 cheque to every Ontarian? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss. Are you getting a COVID shot? Why uptake might not match previous years and why the province's chief medical officer has been silent about it. Doug Ford called out Sudbury NDP MPP Jamie West and says he's playing cards on the back bench. Is it just another signal that a spring election looms? Peter Bethlenfalvy joins the podcast to talk about the province's financial state of affairs and defends the government's books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queen's Park is back and still talking about bike lanes. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the government's first big piece legislation and why it's so laser focused on bikes. Dr. Jane Philpott is taking charge of a provincial team that's looking to connect all Ontarians with a primary healthcare provider. It's an odd job for the former Liberal health minister although well within her wheelhouse, but will Doug Ford listen to her recommendations? Marit Stiles joins the podcast to talk about the NDP's plans for upcoming session at QP, the fact that 3 of her MPPs have left for Federal politics, and why she's the alternative Ontarians need right now.  Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/celebrating-a-man-who-knows-all-there-is-to-know-about-ontario-political-history JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-ontario-could-have-a-new-option-for-turning-offices-into-homes-if-the-government-takesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Green Party leader Mike Schreiner joins the podcast to talk about his hopes for the party, the new session at Queen's Park, and much more. Want bike lanes in your city? Well, you'll have to run it by Queen's Park as the provincial government wants a say on where bike lanes go. Ontario Liberals are saying the Therme Spa deal is Doug Ford's 407. The NDP are calling for an investigation into it the deal. Meanwhile, Doug Ford will be sending you $200 in the mail. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/remembering-jim-peterson John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-governments-add-red-tape-to-stuff-they-want-to-suffocate-housing-and-bike-lanesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The province is undertaking an audit of children's aid societies in Ontario. This comes after Premier Doug Ford's criticized cost overruns and manager bonuses. Unions representing the organizations say the criticism is a smokescreen for decades of underfunding that have worsened conditions. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the status of the system and what can be done to prevent tragedies. The provincial government has released the details of its lease to Therme. A 95-year lease will provide the province with $2 billion in revenue, which, if you do the math, isn't that much money per year. Steve and JMM discuss the fallout. Geoffrey Hinton, the so-called father of artificial intelligence, has words for Doug Ford over the closure of the Ontario Science Centre. The new Nobel laureate says people shouldn't elect someone who is willing to close an institution that embraced curiosity. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/is-this-marit-stiless-moment John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-toronto-gets-a-raw-deal-from-the-province-that-doesnt-mean-it-can-ignore-the-basicsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bhutila Karpoche is the third NDP MPP to seek a federal nomination. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath talk about why now might be the time to make the leap to Ottawa. Another transit headache for the City of Toronto as Mosaic, the builders behind the Finch LRT, sue the province over delays in opening the line. Should the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation be a provincial holiday in Ontario? Sol Mamakwa thinks it should be; the government isn't so sure. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/honouring-americas-first-centenarian-president John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-are-the-federal-liberals-facing-an-extinction-eventSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie joins Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath to discuss her plans ahead of a potential spring election, the OLP's new slogan, and how she tries to get under Doug Ford's skin. Premier Ford's comments telling homeless people to get off their butts and get jobs has him taking heat, and leaves many wondering if he's unaware of the pervasiveness of this issue. Doug Ford wants to build a highway underneath the 401. Will a feasibility study build his case or show that this is simple a pipe dream? John Michael's column: Coming Soon Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/what-can-we-learn-from-the-ontario-liberals-new-sloganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ontario PC Party has won the riding of Bay of Quinte, replacing former education minister Todd Smith. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into how this may affect a possible spring election. The Government of Ontario has released its public accounts, which show that revenues are up and the deficit is down, but the debt just got bigger. And the Financial Accountability Office of Ontario will launch an investigation into the early expansion of alcohol sales. The report, set to be released in early 2025, could be a bombshell for an early election. Steve's column: (coming soon) John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/do-the-costs-of-wind-power-outweigh-its-benefits-for-ontario Caretaker Convention explainer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gkOtfh0-hQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government of Ontario is spending millions on upgrading the water infrastructure in Prince Edward County — ahead of a by-election next week. Coincidence? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss. Doug Ford believes Jagmeet Singh won't trigger an early election at the federal level due to his pension. The NDP leader fires back telling the Premier to stop focusing on alcohol in corner stores. Food bank usage has spiked in Ontario with over a million people visiting one in the last year. It's a grim milestone and one group is calling for change. Steve's column: John Michael's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/opinion-is-there-really-such-a-thing-as-good-economic-news-during-a-housing-crisis The Thread's episode on food insecurity: https://youtu.be/uTGKHJnBF3M?si=0Eq_pZd4UCYc_6eC TVO Today Live in Mississauga: https://www.tvo.org/tvo-today-live#upcomingeventsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.