West of Centre

A usually routine process to draw new riding maps has become politically charged in Alberta after the governing UCP tossed an independent report months in the making. A second report, supported by Danielle Smith’s government, splits apart some urban ridings, adds in more rural voters and appears to favour future UCP wins. Host Kathleen Petty speaks with political scientist Greg Anderson about how gerrymandering works in the U.S. and whether we are truly seeing an example of it in Alberta.Plus, on the political panel, columnist Rob Breakenridge says this map-making process could backfire for the UCP by angering voters. Political scientist Lori Williams says the legitimacy of the entire process is now in question, and it could set a standard for electoral map making in Canada. Plus, more on the lessons to learn from the recent U.S. midterm elections. In that case, maps skewed to favour Republican candidates failed to net President Donald Trump’s party the desired win.Host: Kathleen PettyGuests: Greg Anderson, Rob Breakenridge, Lori Williams Producers: Emily Senger, Emily Williams, Diane Yanko, Josh Pagé

On Power & Politics, host David Cochrane asks decision-makers the questions that matter – and gets answers. Every weekday, we feature hard-hitting interviews with politicians and leaders, check in with CBC’s top political journalists for updates on breaking stories, and take the time to analyze the latest developments with a cast of regular panelists and critical thinkers. This episode features David Cochrane’s one-on-one with B.C premier-elect Lorne Doerkson. Plus, European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas joins Power & Politics for an exclusive interview, discussing her vision for the Canada-EU relationship as both jurisdictions sit down to define its next chapter. More episodes of Power & Politics are available wherever you get your podcasts, and here: https://link.mgln.ai/PPxWoC

A conservative alliance between B.C. premier-designate Lorne Doerkson and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith seems likely, but isn’t guaranteed. West of Centre host Kathleen Petty looks at past frosty relationships between conservative Alberta and B.C. premiers who argued over the failed Northern Gateway pipeline. With a new pipeline priority, Pacific Link, will the outcome be different? Add in a conservative government in Saskatchewan, does the West now have a bloc that will increase its influence in Confederation?Plus, two former political advisers weigh in on the path forward for western premiers. Mike McDonald was chief of staff to former B.C. premier Christy Clark and Melissa Caouette was advisor to former Alberta premier Jim Prentice. They look at how Doerkson's vision for the future differs from his predecessor, and the priorities Alberta and B.C. might share.Host: Kathleen PettyGuests: Melissa Caouette, Mike McDonaldProducers: Emily Senger, Emily Williams, Diane Yanko, Josh Pagé

Premier Danielle Smith joins host Kathleen Petty after a divisive Alberta referendum. Albertans are clear on their desire to remain a province of Canada. But parts of the province, and Smith’s own party, remain at odds. Separatists still hold United Conservative Party memberships. The premier says they should find a new party. But can she kick them out? And will she?Also, Smith did not get a mandate on the four referendum questions on constitutional reform, and she failed to get a strong mandate on the other five questions on immigration. There's a clear divide between urban and rural voters. Will she push ahead with planned legislation to remove some social services for temporary residents? And how do conservatives address sagging support in the big cities?  Host: Kathleen PettyGuests: Danielle Smith, Jason MarkusoffProducers: Emily Senger, Emily Williams, Diane Yanko, Josh Pagé

CBC projects a clear majority of Albertans have voted to remain a province of Canada, rejecting a second, binding referendum on separation. The results were delayed to around 11 p.m. MT, as some polling stations were open later than expected. Host Kathleen Petty is joined by CBC senior reporter Alex Boyd to break down what is known about the early, unofficial results. They look at the perceptions around the energy and enthusiasm of both the federalist and independence campaigns. Plus, where it leaves Premier Danielle Smith in the days, weeks and months ahead. Host: Kathleen PettyGuest: Alex BoydProducers: Emily Senger, Diane Yanko