

At Issue
CBC
Cut through the spin with Canada’s top political journalists. Host Rosemary Barton and columnists Althia Raj, Chantal Hébert and Andrew Coyne break down the week’s biggest political stories shaping the country. Brought to you by CBC News: The National. New episodes drop every Friday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 7, 2025 • 24min
Is Pierre Poilievre’s leadership in trouble?
Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political columnist, Andrew Coyne, a sharp opinion commentator, and Althia Raj, an insightful political reporter, dive into the turmoil surrounding Pierre Poilievre's leadership. They discuss the recent events of MPs crossing the floor and resignations, exposing chaos within Poilievre’s caucus. Coyne highlights the detrimental effects of an exclusionary approach on public perception and electoral prospects, while Raj advocates for fostering better MP-leader relations. The conversation also touches on immigration cuts, critiquing their potential long-term consequences for Canada.

Nov 5, 2025 • 9min
Carney’s 1st budget
This episode features Andrew Coyne, a seasoned political columnist known for his sharp critiques, Althia Raj, a political reporter analyzing contemporary policy choices, and Chantal Hébert, a national affairs columnist with deep insights into political strategies. They debate Mark Carney's first budget, questioning its transformative promises and evaluating its alignment with past governmental approaches. Discussions revolve around its economic implications, potential political fallout, and whether it effectively targets Conservative dissidents, showcasing a fascinating blend of fiscal analysis and political commentary.

Oct 31, 2025 • 25min
Canada-U.S. trade negotiations go off the rails
Althia Raj, a savvy political reporter, joins seasoned commentator Chantal Hébert and political writer Jason Markusoff for an insightful discussion. They dive deep into the recent turmoil in Canada-U.S. trade negotiations, sparked by a controversial anti-tariff ad that upset Trump. The trio analyzes the economic fallout for Canadian sectors like auto and steel, debates the implications of the federal budget, and unpacks the contentious use of the notwithstanding clause in Alberta's labor issues, raising critical questions about political strategy and rights.

Oct 24, 2025 • 24min
Carney hints at ‘sacrifices’ in the next budget
This time, Andrew Coyne, a sharp columnist known for dissecting Canadian politics, joins Chantal Hébert, a seasoned political analyst, and Althia Raj, a keen observer of party dynamics. They dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney’s stark warnings about 'sacrifices' in the looming budget. The discussion explores how public acceptance of austerity hinges on competent execution. Plus, the panel assesses Pierre Poilievre’s controversial comments and Canada's warming trade ties with India, weighing the balance between profit and national security.

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.

Oct 8, 2025 • 8min
Carney meets Trump in Washington – again
At Issue special edition: Prime Minister Mark Carney meets with U.S. President Donald Trump to try and reach a deal on tariffs. Rosemary Barton hosts Chantal Hébert, Andrew Coyne and Althia Raj.

Oct 3, 2025 • 23min
Alberta pushes for a West-Coast pipeline
Chantal Hébert, a veteran political columnist with expertise in federal-provincial politics, joins Althia Raj, a political commentator focusing on party dynamics. They dive into Alberta's controversial west-coast pipeline proposal, discussing its political implications and potential conflicts with British Columbia. The conversation shifts to the NDP leadership race, exploring candidates' visions for revitalization and the party's identity struggles. Additionally, they analyze the Liberal government's strategy in establishing new agencies and the impact of leadership management styles.


