The House Is Trudeau’s reformed Senate working? Here’s what senators say
Jul 26, 2025
Paula Simons, an Alberta Senator known for her community activism, and Leo Housakos, a Quebec Senator representing Conservative interests, delve into the profound changes in the Senate over the last decade. They discuss Trudeau's reforms aimed at diminishing partisanship and increasing senator independence. Simons defends the impact of these changes, while Housakos argues the Senate is losing its influence. The conversation raises critical questions about representation, regional disparities, and the Senate's evolving role in Canadian legislation.
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Merit Appointments Boost Diversity
- Appointments through an arm's-length committee based on merit improved Senate diversity.
- The Senate is now more ethnoculturally diverse and has achieved gender parity.
Senators’ Bills Distract Senate Focus
- Senators increasing their own bills can distract from reviewing government legislation.
- The primary role should remain as a chamber of sober second thought reviewing House bills.
Partisanship Persists Without Labels
- Liberal-appointed Senators overwhelmingly support government legislation over 95% of the time.
- The Senate is no less partisan; it just lacks transparent party labels.