Why are advocates for children with autism comparing Ontario education minister Paul Calandra to Breaking Bad character Saul Goodman? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the implications of the comparison. Last year, Lieutenant-General Richard Rohmer issued a challenge to Ontario premier Doug Ford to have the north side of the Ontario Veterans' Memorial engraved. Steve and John Michael discuss how the premier rose to the challenge and what that means for veterans. Brian Lewis, Ontario's former chief economist from 2015 to 2021, joins Steve and JMM to dig further into the province's fall economic statement and discuss the province's fiscal future. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/i-sat-down-with-ontarios-living-former-premiers-heres-what-i-learned JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-a-pro-cyclist-court-decision-could-create-headaches-for-rural-ontarioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath take a look at Ontario's fall economic statement, which paints a picture of the province's financial health. Mark Carney has tabled his first budget as prime minister. Some have called it unprecedented, others say it lacks ambition. Steve and John Michael pick apart the federal government's document and break down its chances of actually passing. Quebec is picking a fight with its doctors, and Doug Ford is trying to poach physicians looking to leave the province. Steve and JMM discuss the strong reaction to Ford's appeal from Quebecers who think he should keep those thoughts to himself. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/bless-you-boys-for-being-a-team-anyone-could-fall-in-love-with JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-if-conservative-premiers-want-change-they-can-do-more-than-talkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, the province released an ad featuring former U.S. President Ronald Reagan decrying the use of tariffs. At first, Donald Trump liked the ad, saying he would have put out the same if he was in Canada's position. Then he had a hissy fit and announced retaliatory tariffs on Canada if the ad wasn't taken down immediately. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the fallout of the ad and whether this will ultimately benefit Ontario's push toward a tariff-free future. The province has backtracked on a controversial plan to effectively end rent control. Steve and John Michael dig into why the government reversed its decision and who would have benefitted from a policy like this. Doug Ford is putting a stop to fixed election dates in Ontario. It's a big change and runs contrary to fixed-election laws in most other provinces and territories in Canada. Steve and JMM discuss why the government wanted to get rid of it and whether the law was effective in the first place. Steve's column(s): https://www.tvo.org/article/i-witnessed-joe-carters-historic-home-run-in-1993-the-memories-just-came-flooding-back & https://www.tvo.org/article/saying-farewell-to-the-most-talented-mpp-youve-never-heard-of JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-want-real-political-reform-in-ontario-amend-the-constitution Publications Ontario's website: https://www.publications.gov.on.ca/asearch.html?vid=20170501121&cname=%5B*+TO+*%5D&key=official+road+map&keyword=official+road+map&iu= See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
MPPs have returned to Queen's Park and the government is pushing through an agenda of cutting red tape; however, Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss another change that has all members steaming. There are some unusual developments at the municipal level in several small Ontario towns. Steve and John Michael discuss why local politics matter. There's a doctor shortage in Ontario and the government has just made it harder for international medical graduates to find residency spots. Steve and JMM discuss why. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-want-to-solve-the-housing-crisis-try-a-marriage-counsellor JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-is-it-time-for-a-public-grocerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stellantis, which produces Chrysler, Ram, and Jeep vehicles, among others, is making a huge investment in the United States and leaving two Ontario plants in jeopardy. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath talk about the fallout of this news and the economic impact of Donald Trump's tariffs. During a public appearance, Ontario Premier Doug Ford told a story about threatening an alleged shoplifter with a beating. Steve and John Michael discuss the reaction - and what experts are saying. The province is buying ad space in the U.S. to promote the removal of trade barriers. Will the ad, which invokes Ronald Reagan, be able to reach the current commander in chief? Steve and JMM discuss the cost of the ad - and how effective they think it will be. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-former-mpps-want-in-on-doug-fords-new-pension-plan-will-he-let-them JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-ontario-is-starting-to-enforce-its-rules-around-empty-beer-cans-now-whatSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The notwithstanding clause allows governments to set aside certain charter rights and supersede the courts on decisions. Quebec's Bill 21 has set up the latest fight between the premiers and the prime minister over how it can be used. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the historic precedents that set out its use. Ontario's handling of the Skills Development Fund is under the microscope following an auditor general's report, so a minister attending a lobbyist's wedding in Paris has the opposition's hackles up. Steve and John Michael delve into the optics and what the other parties may do. Doug Ford received a letter from 20 municipalities asking him to consider exemptions to his ban on automated speed enforcement cameras, specifically allowing them in school zones. Steve and JMM discuss the premier's response. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-who-wants-to-lead-the-ontario-liberals JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-is-fords-crown-royal-threat-a-distraction Explainer on the Notwithstanding clause: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMcGuYh_cEg Ontario labour minister attended lobbyist's wedding after granting his clients millions in training funds: https://www.thetrillium.ca/news/politics/ontario-labour-minister-attended-lobbyists-wedding-after-granting-his-clients-millions-in-training-funds-11318999 Vehicles registered to Ford cabinet ministers caught by speed cameras more than 20 times: https://globalnews.ca/news/11463735/ontario-cabinet-minister-vehicle-speeding-ticketsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath sit down with Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles to discuss the aftermath of her recent leadership review. Where does she take the party now? Jim Bradley, the longtime MPP for St. Catharines, has died. Steve and John Michael look at his legacy as one of the most influential environment ministers in the province's history. Algoma Steel has received financial support from the federal government and the province of Ontario, but KAP Paper has not. Steve and JMM delve into the tricky economic situation for the province's northern industries. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/this-conservative-stalwart-cheated-death-and-has-a-message-about-ontarios-health-care-system JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-ontarios-grocery-oligarchs-are-betting-ford-will-chicken-out-he-shouldntSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the fallout of shutting down speed cameras. What will municipalities do next? Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles had a bruising leadership review. Unlike Bonnie Crombie, she's staying on the job — but the same can't be said for some of her top staffers. Steve and John Michael discuss where the party goes from here. Ontario has announced its latest round of funding for primary care teams, which the government hopes will connect 500,000 more people to a family doctor or nurse practitioner. Steve and JMM dig into the numbers. Chris Scott, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie, is facing charges domestic violence charges of assault and assault with a weapon. Scott has been ejected from the PC Party caucus and now sits as an independent. Steve and JMM discuss the rules around criminal records and sitting in elected office, and the opposition's differing reaction to the news. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/their-public-spats-helped-build-toronto-can-they-get-along-in-private JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-should-ontario-change-course-on-renewable-energySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bonnie Crombie resigned as leader of the Ontario Liberal Party after a disappointing leadership review. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss how her vote collapsed, how she left the party in better shape, and who comes next. Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles is set to undergo her own leadership review. The party is doing objectively worse than the Ontario Liberals, so Steve and John Michael dissect her chances - and how this event could be a soft launch for the federal party. Doug Ford applauded the City of Vaughn for shutting down its speed camera program, a move that critics say will endanger pedestrians. Steve and JMM discuss why the premier has such a disdain for these devices, which, according to experts, have a lot of upside. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-bonnie-crombie-wont-regret-her-time-as-liberal-leader JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-why-ontarios-ndp-is-reconsidering-nuclear-power-with-an-eye-on-the-next-election Bonnie Crombie image credit to: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Laura ProctorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie is facing a leadership review during the party's annual general meeting. It's a make-or-break vote that will speak volumes about the party's confidence in its new leader. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what happens next. Doug Ford and the PC Party are astonishingly popular despite the premier's unpopularity. What gives? Steve and John Michael look into how Ford's reputation as Captain Canada is both helping and hurting his brand. Finally, Steve and JMM catch you up on the events of the summer, including an Ontario Superior Court decision on bike lanes in Toronto; new developments on the proposed 401 tunnel; and Ontario public servants being recalled to the office five days a week. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/talking-with-ken-dryden JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-how-ford-can-jumpstart-housing-development-by-taking-a-page-out-of-kathleen-wynnes-playbook Bonnie Crombie image: Credit: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan DenetteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiled design plans for Ontario Place once it reopens, including a five-storey parking structure. Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath break down this development and look at the timeline of what happens next. Sweltering temperatures in classrooms have the government of Ontario and school boards pointing fingers while students sizzle in the heat. Steve and John Michael discuss what schools are doing to keep kids cool while puzzling over the cost of retrofits. The province's plan to build at least 1.5 million homes by 2031 could be significantly higher, according to a briefing document obtained by the CBC. Steve and JMM discuss how housing starts look even more dismal than they did before. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-toronto-is-spoiling-for-a-legal-fight-with-queens-park-does-it-have-a-case JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-david-petersons-liberals-are-remembering-the-good-times-ontarians-should-too Credit: T-shirt image of David Peterson - King's Printer for Ontario/ola.org June 20 Frank MillerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Project Ontario is a grassroots organization calling on the Ontario government to adopt more fiscally conservative policies. But how does their charge stand up against Premier Doug Ford's three majority governments? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss what conservatives are saying. A new report from the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario revealed that Doug Ford's staff members were using code words to talk about the Greenbelt deal. Steve and John Michael discuss the revelations and the connection to Ford's comments on First Nations relationships surrounding Bill 5. The Toronto Transit Commission has been given the keys to the Eglinton Light Rail Transit line, so does that mean an opening date is in sight? Steve and JMM discuss why people still need to hold their horses as the line heads into a long period of stress testing. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-how-the-1985-election-changed-ontario-politics-forever JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-could-ontarios-recycling-changes-leave-cities-holding-the-bag Credit: T-shirt image of Frank Miller - Anthony Miles/King's Printer for Ontario/wikipedia.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The legislature has broken for the summer with MPPs set to return in October. Why such a long break? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath dig into the hiatus. The Council of the Federation is set to meet in the Muskoka region this summer amidst threats of road and rail blockades after the passage of Bill 5. And wildfire season is raging in the province of Ontario, so what's the government doing about it? Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/the-common-sense-revolution-turns-30-and-its-architects-are-still-celebrating JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-theres-only-one-way-out-of-the-housing-crisis-upSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Resistance to Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing its Economy Act, is heating up as it passed into law this week at Queen's Park. Will the bill lead to highway blockades and a resurgence of the Idle No More movement? Steve Paikin and John Michael McGrath discuss the growing dissent toward the government's attempt to fast-track infrastructure projects. Members of Provincial Parliament are receiving a pay boost after nearly 15 years and access to a pension. Steve and John Michael discuss whether people will rise up in indignation at the increase or if they think it's about time. A new report from the Financial Accountability Office of Ontario confirms that rocky economic times are ahead for the province. Steve and JMM dig into the details and some dissonance between what the province is saying will happen and historical trends that say otherwise. Steve's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-ontario-will-uncrate-a-statue-of-canadas-first-prime-minister-what-took-so-long JMM's column: https://www.tvo.org/article/analysis-bill-33-doesnt-dissolve-ontarios-school-boards-but-its-yet-another-hit-to-their-power Credit: T-shirt image of Mike Harris - King's Printer for Ontario/ola.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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.
Ethan McCulloch
god damn, maybe we need some white organization if everyone else is doing it