

Althia Raj
National columnist for the Toronto Star, covering Canadian politics. Provides insights and analysis on current political issues and government policies.
Top 10 podcasts with Althia Raj
Ranked by the Snipd community

50 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 29min
Politics! Carney’s ’delete laws’ bill, G7 wraps
Althia Raj, a national columnist for the Toronto Star, and Aaron Wherry, a CBC journalist, dive into the aftermath of the recent G7 summit, notably shaped by the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. They discuss the contentious C-5 bill aimed at fast-tracking resource project approvals, criticized for undermining democratic processes and Indigenous rights. The conversation also touches on the complex geopolitical dynamics highlighted at the summit, emphasizing the urgency of international dialogue despite rising tensions.

18 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 30min
Politics! Border bill blowback and 'Santa' Carney
Althia Raj is a Toronto Star political columnist known for her insightful analysis, while Aaron Wherry is a senior parliamentary reporter at CBC with a keen eye on Canadian politics. They delve into the controversial new border bill, discussing its implications for civil liberties and refugee claims, likening it to U.S. policies. Additionally, the duo explores the positive vibes from a meeting between Canada's premiers and Prime Minister, centered around a potential east-west pipeline, while questioning the longevity of this collaborative spirit.

11 snips
Mar 24, 2026 • 49min
Reporter's Notebook -- Is This The Week The NDP Begins a Comeback?
Rob Russo, a policy-minded political analyst with an economist’s lens, and Althia Raj, a sharp federal politics journalist, dissect the NDP leadership race and its implications. They debate candidate differences, fundraising and membership dynamics. Conversation also covers where the NDP is losing ground, challenges in Quebec outreach, and what Canada misses without a stronger progressive voice.

11 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 45min
Raj and Russo -- The Liberals Survive, What Happens Now?
Rob Russo, a political journalist from The Economist, and Althia Raj, a Toronto Star reporter, dive into the recent budget vote that kept Mark Carney's government afloat by a narrow margin. They dissect the strategic concessions made to gain support and debate whether the opposition parties are now weaker as a result. The conversation touches on the potential impact of a coalition amid the fragile dynamics in Parliament and assesses how Carney has fostered relations with premiers. Insights into upcoming political maneuvers keep the discussion lively and engaging.

9 snips
Mar 10, 2026 • 45min
Raj-Russo -- The Liberals Debate Each Other on Iran
Rob Russo, political reporter with The Economist, offers on-the-ground analysis from Alberta. Althia Raj, political reporter at the Toronto Star, breaks down Parliament and party dynamics. They debate the Commons clash over Canada’s Iran stance. They unpack Mark Carney’s shifting messages, Alberta’s political spotlight, federal-provincial tensions, and the stakes of upcoming by-elections.

9 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 22min
Cracks in Canada’s united front on tariffs?
Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political commentator, Andrew Coyne, a prominent columnist, and Althia Raj, a political reporter, dive into Canada's tariff turmoil. They explore how provincial interests clash and the federal government's need for better communication. Coyne warns against trading regional interests and emphasizes long-term investment strategies. They also discuss Liberal bail reforms, with concerns about civil liberties and resource limitations. Lastly, Coyne critiques Pierre Poilievre's accusations against the RCMP, highlighting the risk to public trust in justice institutions.

7 snips
Feb 24, 2026 • 45min
Raj-Russo: Is Compromise In the Air?
Rob Russo, political commentator at The Economist known for sharp party strategy analysis, and Althia Raj, Toronto Star parliamentary reporter with deep knowledge of Senate and privacy issues, talk cooperation in Parliament. They discuss motives behind Conservative cooperation, Senate pushback on privacy rules, balancing anti‑Trump voters with party unity, and whether cross‑party deals are real.

5 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 43min
Reporter's Notebook -- Raj and Russo On Poilievre Trying to Get His Act Together
Political journalist Althia Raj and analyst Rob Russo dive into the aftermath of Michael Ma's shocking floor crossing, revealing how it shakes Ottawa's political landscape. They discuss Poilievre's challenges in recruitment and outreach, critiquing his media performance and potential vulnerabilities. The duo examines generational divides and his impact on the party's electability. Additionally, they dissect Mark Carney's rising presence and the importance of connecting with everyday Canadians on key issues like affordability.

Feb 20, 2026 • 23min
Poilievre’s shrinking caucus
Althia Raj, political columnist known for sharp Conservative reporting; Andrew Coyne, national columnist with deep policy critique; Chantal Hébert, seasoned federal politics analyst. They discuss Matt Jeneroux’s floor crossing and what it signals for Conservative unity. They debate caucus management and Poilievre’s responsibility. Conversation touches on Trump’s ripple effects on Canadian Conservatives and tensions over MPs’ media access.

Sep 9, 2025 • 50min
The Debut of Raj and Russo, The Reporter's Notebook
Althia Raj, a senior columnist for the Toronto Star, and Rob Russo, a Canadian correspondent for The Economist, dive into Canadian politics with sharp insights. They discuss the connection between public crime perception and women's safety influencing voter behavior. The duo tackles infrastructure funding hurdles and reliance on private investments. They also explore minority governance challenges and the repercussions of leadership turmoil in the Conservative and NDP parties. Listeners will appreciate the thought-provoking conversations in the ever-evolving political arena.


