Political Capital with Rob Shaw
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Join CHEK News Political Correspondent Rob Shaw and a lively panel of guests for a weekly breakdown of all of the news in B.C. politics, with analysis and commentary that helps make sense of the latest stories in and around the B.C. legislature.
Available episodes
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5 days ago
#114 - Climate politics, speculation tax, homeless bill, Katrina Chen
A major week in BC climate politics as the opposition BC United and Conservative parties table their climate plans, and the NDP seeks to backstop their position by considering new affordability measures. Plus, the government expands the speculation tax, using new branding to cover up any criticism along the way. In audio extras this week: UBCM calls on government to withdraw a homelessness bill. And a discussion about the retirement of Burnaby MLA Katrina Chen. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Nov 17, 2023
#113 - Labour rules for gig economy, anti-racism hotline, NDP convention, Surrey policing
The NDP government brings in long-awaited rules for drivers at Uber, Skip the Dishes and other gig economy roles - do they hit the mark? A new anti-racism hotline is set to go live three years after it was first promised. And a look-ahead to the BC NDP convention, one year before the election. Plus, Mike Farnworth suspends the Surrey police board, so is it clear sailing for a municipal force now?
Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier of Framepoint Strategies, Allie Blades of Mash Strategies and Carlie Pochynok of Hill & Knowlton. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Nov 10, 2023
#112 - Even more new housing legislation, BC Green deputy leader resigns, BC Conservatives call for Dr. Henry to be fired
Premier David Eby's government continues its rapid pace of housing legislation, with a new bill to allow condo tours around transit hubs. The BC Greens lose their deputy leader over his social media activity and the BC Conservatives hold a rally calling for Dr. Bonnie Henry to be fired and unvaccinated healthcare workers to be rehired. Plus, in our audio extras, we discuss the political pros and cons of the NDP moving so quickly on housing, and whether it leaves opposition parties any room to maneuver.
Jeff Ferrier, Allie Blades and guest panelist Khelsilem join host Rob Shaw.
Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Nov 3, 2023
#111 - Housing sector reforms, provincial safe supply to reduce overdose deaths and changes to the carbon tax.
Premier David Eby tables huge reforms to the housing sector, BC's chief coroner wants to expand the provincial safe supply to reduce overdose deaths, and political parties jockey for positions on reforming the carbon tax. Plus, as an audio extra, we discuss former Premier John Horgan's appointment as Canada's ambassador to Germany. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades of Mash Strategies, Jeff Ferrier of Framepoint Public Affairs and strategist Jillian Oliver. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Oct 27, 2023
#110 - Ottawa stuns BC on carbon tax changes, BC debates short-term rental changes and Halloween ghost stories
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has left BC in a bind over changes to the carbon tax. The BC NDP debates (and then dismisses) Opposition amendments to its short-term rental legislation. And as a podcast audio extra, we discuss what topics are haunting BC politicians as we approach spooky Halloween. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Allie Blades and Jillian Oliver. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Oct 20, 2023
#109 - BC targets short-term rentals, police act changes, Lytton, one-year mark to next election
Oct 20, 2023 - Does BC's new legislation to crack down on short-term rentals hit the mark, and how has the NDP government handled the issue? Does a new bill changing the Police Act bring to an end the long-running Surrey policing dispute? And why is the province so slow, and so absent, in helping the Village of Lytton rebuild after almost two and a half years?
Plus it's the one-year mark to the next election, where do the parties sit and where do they have to go to be successful in 12 short months? Our PodSquad breaks it all down. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Oct 13, 2023
#108 - Surrey police, BC Conservatives, decriminalization
The City of Surrey is taking the provincial government to court to try and stop its ordered transition to a municipal police force, continuing a long-running political drama. And the BC Conservatives make waves at the legislature on the issues of SOGI and book banning, raising all sorts of questions about what it means for the province's political dynamics.
Plus, in audio extras, we discuss new legislation to ban open drug use in most public places and the impact it will have on the decriminalization pilot project. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades and Jeff Ferrier. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Sep 29, 2023
#107 - Masking/vaccines, housing targets, legislature lookahead, deficits
BC moves back to mandatory masks, the province unveils new housing targets for municipalities, and we look ahead to the fall session of the legislature resuming. Plus, in a podcast audio extra, we examine new polling numbers that once again show surging BC Conservatives and whether voters care about BC's three-year plan to run deficits without balancing the budget. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Jillian Oliver and Allie Blades. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Sep 22, 2023
#106 - Sept. 22, 2023 - NDP MLA fired from caucus, SOGI protests, UBCM, India
Premier David Eby boots an MLA out of caucus, and appears to draw a line in the sand on MLA behaviour - what does it mean for how MLAs treat their staff? Three of BC's parties join forces to denounce the anti-SOGI protests, but the BC Conservatives promise to end SOGI to court the protest votes. Plus, it's UBCM week so we dive into the issues and effectiveness of this year's local government lobbying. And a look at how the India-Canada dispute will affect British Columbia. Jeff Ferrier, Allie Blades and Jillian Oliver join host Rob Shaw. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Sep 15, 2023
#105 - BC Review Board, decriminalization and BC United defection
Premier David Eby launches a review into BC's Review Board, after a man accused in a Chinatown triple-stabbing had been granted an unescorted day pass from a forensic facility. Plus, BC United's new crime plan promises to end decriminalization, but the NDP government offers up tweaks to protect playgrounds from open drug use instead. And, a huge defection from BC United to the BC Conservatives changes the political dynamic at the legislature. Podcast audio extras include a look at a new task force on wildfires, and cost overruns at Surrey's promised second hospital. Host Rob Shaw is joined by the political pod squad: Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Jul 14, 2023
#104 - July 14, 2023 - Wildfires, drought, summer predictions
BC is on track for its worst summer ever for wildfires and drought, what does that mean for political priorities and the issue of climate change in the next election? Plus, the panel prepares for a six-week summer break by offering up predictions for what will keep politicians busy. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver. Political Capital will return Sept. 15, 2023.
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Jun 30, 2023
#103 - June 30, 2023 - Byelection results, public drug use
Why did BC United's vote collapse in the recent byelections and what does it mean for the fate of the Opposition party? Plus, a look at Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West's pointed comments about decriminalization and open drug use on city streets, as his municipality becomes the latest to pass a strengthened bylaw against drug use in public places. In our podcast audio extra, we discuss the problems with government's new free air condition program to respond to the heat dome, as well as whether Children's Minister Mitzie Dean should resign in the wake of a horrific case of child abuse within the foster care system. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Jun 23, 2023
#102 - June 23, 2023 - Surrey policing, RBCM CEO, BC Hydro
The messy policing situation at Surrey gets even messier, with the mayor calling the solicitor general a misogynist, so now what does the government do? The CEO of the Royal BC Museum resigns, citing government's shifting direction - is this good or bad for the future of the museum? And BC Hydro botches its electricity forecasts, which may or may not be a positive for Premier David Eby's climate plan. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Jun 16, 2023
#101 - Langford-Juan de Fuca byelection all-candidates debate
June 15, 2023: The candidates from BC's major political parties debate the issues on the minds of voters in the Langford-Juan de Fuca byelection. Host Rob Shaw moderates a Q&A and debate on issues like West Shore growth, transportation gridlock, healthcare, affordability and housing. BC Green candidate Camille Currie, BC United candidate Elena Lawson, BC Conservative candidate Mike Harris and BC NDP candidate Ravi Parmar join for the hour-long debate.
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Jun 9, 2023
#100 - June 9, 2023 - Surrey hospital, overdose crisis, anniversary guests!!!
BC's health minister unveils a plan to fix Surrey Memorial Hospital, health officials debate expanding provincial drug policy to address the worsening overdose crisis and it's Political Capital's 100th episode anniversary!
Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver ---- plus special guests!
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Jun 2, 2023
#99 BC's housing naughty list, Alberta election lessons, BC byelections, Surrey policing and free teen transit
June 2, 2023 - The BC government has put out its list of 10 'naughty' municipalities it intends to pressure to speed up housing approvals, but what does it actually mean for affordability? Alberta's election wraps up, and are there any lessons for BC's parties on how the campaign went? Plus, a look at BC's newly-called byelections, as well as the solicitor general's latest warnings on Surrey policing and a BC Green proposal to make transit free for teenagers. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades.
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May 26, 2023
#98 - Hospital crisis, trade mission and BC United branding
Doctors are sounding public alarm bells in an unprecedented fashion about the state of BC's hospitals, what should the public make of this and how should the government be responding? Premier David Eby heads out on his first international trade mission, but is it just a glorified travel junket? And BC United launches a new advertising campaign on its rebranding, how did it land? Our panel breaks it down. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades.
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May 19, 2023
#97 - Bail reform and U.S. cancer treatment
Ottawa delivers the bail reform on prolific offenders that B.C. wanted, so is this a win for the David Eby administration and what will it mean for the ongoing debate about public safety, vandalism and street disorder? Health Minister Adrian Dix announces he will start sending people to the United States for cancer treatment, what does this say about the state of our healthcare system? Plus, a look at former Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart's unpaid debts, and a discussion about the resignation of the CEO of Atira. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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May 12, 2023
#96 - BC Housing scandal, museum politics, session-ender
The long-awaited forensic audit into BC Housing lands at the legislature, creating a flurry of political finger-pointing, but what does it mean for the premier's political fortunes? The tourism minister pushes the Royal BC Museum to re-open the shuttered Old Town exhibit, does she have the right read on the public mood? And we look at the end of the spring session of the legislature, including a few standout MLAs. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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May 5, 2023
#95 - BC's new jobs plan, drug decrim, short-term rentals
The BC NDP government unveils its new jobs plan, to align the post-secondary sector with in-demand labour shortages - but is it enough and why didn't it look at a wider shift for provinces and universities? Plus, a Vancouver van selling clean drugs sparks another round of decriminalization debate. A look at the NDP's candidate for the upcoming Vancouver-Mount Pleasant. And a Green proposal to create a short-term rental registry, to combat the rise of AirBnB type services. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades and Jillian Oliver. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Apr 28, 2023
#94 - All Surrey, all the time. Debates rage over police and portables.
The BC government (sort of) makes a decision on Surrey's police controversy, but was it the right move? And the province find itself in a jam on Surrey schools as well, with the board threatening to stack portables on top of one another due to a lack of funding. Plus, new figures from BC's Prosecution Service highlight the complexities of the so-called catch and release justice system.
Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier. Brought to you by Uber Canada.
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Apr 21, 2023
#93 - BC's housing hammer, cities ban drug use in public spaces, fundraising numbers and credit rating downgrades
The BC government brings its first hammer down on housing with new legislation, is this the future of the government direction on housing? Plus, cities begin pushing to ban open drug use in public spaces, kickstarting a heated debate about decriminalization. Also, we look at new political fundraising numbers, the premier's comments on a possible hostile takeover of BC mining giant TECK Resources, and the province's new credit rating downgrade. Jillian Oliver, Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades join host Rob Shaw.
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Apr 14, 2023
#92 - BC United, crime in Nanaimo and confusing new polls
The BC Liberals officially make the switch to BC United, how does it land and what are the pros and cons of such a risky move? The premier fumbles into a PR disaster in Nanaimo on the issue of crime, what happened? Plus, a look at new Angus Reid polling that shows resilient NDP support. And in a podcast extra, we examine the new candidates and dynamics of the Langford-Juan de Fuca byelection. Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver join host Rob Shaw.
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Mar 31, 2023
#91 - Federal budget, crime, and foreign interference in politics
What does BC think of the latest federal budget - not much, it turns out, as Ottawa fails to deliver on several fronts. A wave of disturbing violence on BC streets raises the temperature on crime. Plus, a look at the issue of foreign interference in provincial and federal politics. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Kareem Allam, Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades.
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Mar 24, 2023
#90 - BC ends surplus spending spree, but affordability concerns persist
BC is wrapping up its massive surplus spending spree, but the premier still has a couple of billion of dollars left to spend within one week until the deadline. Should he spend it all, and if so on what? Plus, new polling suggests people feel worse off financially now than they did a year ago, so what does that mean for opposition parties? And a look at what BC is hoping for in next week's federal budget. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Jillian Oliver and Allie Blades.
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Mar 17, 2023
#89 - LNG, TransLink bailout, Nanaimo crime
BC approves a new LNG plant in Kitimat, but starts to shut the door on new facilities with new rules and caps on the oil and gas sector -- is it the right move, and if so is it enough? Plus, the premier bails out TransLink, and a crime rally in Nanaimo showcases political divisions on law and order. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Mar 10, 2023
#88 - Pay equity, intimate images, QP toxicity
The NDP government tables several bills around International Women's Day, including transparency on the gender pay gap and tools to crack down on non-consensual distribution of intimate images. Premier David Eby punts the issue of toxicity in the politics over to Speaker Raj Chouhan, as question period marks its 50th anniversary at the BC legislature. Plus, a discussion on the shifting BC Liberal position on decriminalization and safe supply. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Kareem Allam, Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades.
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Mar 3, 2023
#87 - Breaking down BC's new budget
Premier David Eby's first budget spends big on the areas of housing, healthcare and addictions, but what does it mean and how does it all land? Our panel does a deep dive into the issues. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Feb 24, 2023
#86 - Melanie Mark's resignation, a four-day work week proposal, Surrey policing and legislature time mismanagement
How can we begin to reform BC politics to make it less toxic, after Melanie Mark, BC's first Indigenous female cabinet minister, resigned by equating the legislature to a torture chamber and the way it functions to a political character assssination? We deep dive into the problems and solutions. Plus, the BC Greens propose a four-day work week pilot program. The NDP wrestles with what to do about Surrey policing. And the legislature gets weird with the government filibustering its own bills. Host Rob Shaw is joined by panelists Jillian Oliver, Allie Blades and Jeff Ferrier.
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Feb 17, 2023
#85 - John Rustad joins BC Conservatives, NDP addictions treatment, dumb backbencher gaffes
Former BC Liberal MLA John Rustad crossed the floor to join the BC Conservatives, giving the party its first MLA in a decade — what will the political ramifications be? The NDP match the BC Liberals on addictions treatment, which is good for the issue but how does it play politically? Plus a look at some dumb comments from backbenchers this week on safe-injection sites and the Holocaust. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Feb 10, 2023
#84 - Throne speech, healthcare deal and John Horgan retires
Premier David Eby delivers his first speech from the throne, but did it accomplish what he was intending? Ottawa offers healthcare funding that falls short of what BC was looking for, so what does the premier do now? And we look back on the legacy and impact of former premier John Horgan as he announces his retirement as MLA.
Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Kareem Allam.
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Feb 3, 2023
#83 - Eby in Ottawa, overdose deaths, throne speech
Premier David Eby visits the prime minister in Ottawa but doesn't emerge with any concrete promises, but does it matter? Another record year of overdose deaths prompts calls for change and political posturing from parties. Plus, a look ahead to Eby's first throne speech and the return of the legislature. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier and Allie Blades.
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Jan 27, 2023
#82 - Healthcare, LNG, special housing advisor
BC inches closer to a deal with Ottawa on healthcare, but it backs away from supporting an expansion to LNG Canada’s second phase due to climate concerns. The premier hires a new special advisor on housing, but it is a divisive choice. And a discussion about Surrey policing. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Jan 20, 2023
#81 - Forestry, natural resources and special health advisor
Premier David Eby finishes a week-long focus on forestry and natural resources, but what did he say and how did it land? Plus, there's a new special advisor for healthcare in the premier's office, Dr. Penny Ballem, how will that change the dynamic of decision-making? Plus, a discussion about criticism surrounding a health colleges bill, and a healthy dose of praise for minister Selina Robinson for standing up for a drag queen story time event in Coquitlam. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Jillian Oliver and Allie Blades.
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Jan 13, 2023
#80 - Premier Eby's first 50 days in office, plus predictions for 2023
Premier David Eby reaches the half-way point of his 100-day action plan in office, how has he done and is he where he wants to be so early in his premiership? Plus, we offer up both reasonable, and wild, predictions for the coming year in BC politics — some will definitely surprise you! Host Rob Shaw is joined by Allie Blades, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Dec 16, 2022
#79 - 2022 Year In Review
What a year it's been! The panel discusses the highs, lows, and surprises of 2022. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Dec 9, 2022
#78 - Premier David Eby's new cabinet
The new premier unveiled his new cabinet, and our panel digs in to what were the surprises, positives and negatives. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Dec 2, 2022
#77 - Health care, cabinet speculation and an interview with Premier Eby
The panel breaks down Premier David Eby's new healthcare announcements, plus we all speculate on who might be in and out of his new cabinet. Then the man himself comes on the show to discuss his priorities, goals and key issues in a wide-ranging interview. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Nov 25, 2022
#76 - David Eby hits the ground sprinting
Did new Premier David Eby hit the high bar of expectations by unleashing a flurry of announcements on housing, crime and affordability during his first week in office? How did those files land, what does it mean for BC's political landscape and what happens next? Our panel breaks it down. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Nov 4, 2022
#75 - Health care crisis: Doctor deal and overdose report
BC signs a new deal with family doctors, but will it be enough to actually get the million British Columbians who don't have a doctor paired up with a physician? An all-party committee of MLAs releases a report into the overdose crisis, but will it change anything? And John Horgan spends his last week as premier in the legislature. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Jillian Oliver and Allie Blades.
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Oct 28, 2022
#74 - Eby's new swearing-in date, team and 100-day plan
David Eby has set a date to formally become BC's 37th premier, but the Nov. 18 timeline raises the question: What's taking so long? Plus, we look at Eby's transition team, new senior staff, and 100-day plan for his premiership. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and former BC Green strategist Sarah Miller.
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Oct 21, 2022
#73 - Premier-designate David Eby, and DQ'd Anjali Appadurai
The BC NDP disqualifies leadership candidate Anjali Appadurai, awarding the position and premiership to David Eby. But boy, was it a messy process. Our panel breaks down the DQ report, decision and fallout. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
Recorded Oct 21, 2022
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Oct 14, 2022
#72 - BC NDP blame Greens for 'hostile takeover,' prolific offenders, and Horgan exit interviews
Oct 14, 2022 -Are the BC Greens behind a takeover of the BC NDP during the leadership race, by encouraging members to take out dual memberships with the NDP to vote for environmental candidate Anjali Appadurai? The NDP think so, but our panel breaks down how that argument fails. Plus, two BC cabinet ministers head to Ottawa to appeal for help on prolific offenders and drum up allies to put pressure on the feds for action. And we take a look at Premier John Horgan's early exit interviews, and why the most popular premier in decades is leaving with so little fanfare or discussion of his legacy. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Oct 7, 2022
#71- BC legislature returns, new NDP poll, and the legislature cat!
The BC legislature returned for the fall session, and the last one under Premier John Horgan, but it didn't go well for the NDP government in the first week on the major issues involving health care and crime. What can the government do to flip things around and what's with the growing disconnect between reality and rhetoric in the house? Also, Speaker Raj Chouhan gets the legislature a cat... just not the cat it was looking for, in a story that goes viral across the country. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Sep 23, 2022
#70 - Prolific offenders report, Horgan's approval numbers and BC NDP leadership race
A long-awaited expert report into street disorder and prolific offenders contains sweeping recommendations, so why is the BC NDP so focused on playing petty political games on the issue? Premier John Horgan's final public approval poll shows an extraordinary five-year run of popularity. Plus, a look at the latest developments in the BC NDP leadership race and the question of why candidate David Eby appears to be sleepwalking through the competition. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
Recorded Sept. 23, 2022
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Sep 16, 2022
#69 - Queen's funeral holiday, UBCM, BC NDP leadership controversy
Premier John Horgan faces a public backlash over his decision to create a half-holiday for the funeral of Queen Elizbaeth, why did he make this decision and what could have been done differently? The Union of BC Municipalities wraps up its annual meeting with the province on the ropes over rural healthcare, and other issues. Plus, BC NDP leadership candidate Anjali Appadurai faces a new set of controversies for her campaign, what's going on here and will it have an impact on the race? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier and special guest panelist Allie Blades from Mash Strategy.
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Sep 9, 2022
#68 - Premier's affordability package, tentative labour peace
Premier John Horgan unveils his long-awaited affordability package, to help British Columbians combat rising inflation and interest rates -- but it's targeted to a small group of people, and is it enough? Also, the government inks a tentative deal with the BCGEU, but not all members are happy at the compromises made. Plus, we take a look at allegations facing BC NDP leadership candidate Anjali Appadurai's campaign, and the difficult position that the resulting investigation has placed on the BC NDP. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Sep 2, 2022
#67 - Labour deals, BC's surplus, rural healthcare and toxicity in politics
BC appears to have inked tentative deals with major unions, and solved the ongoing strike - what does that mean for labour peace in the province? The government closes the books on last year's budget with a stunning fiscal turnaround, but does being left with a surplus during a time of crises put the NDP in the best position politically? Rural mayors band together to push for healthcare improvements as their ERs and ambulance systems collapse. And BC's three party leaders come together to decry the rising toxicity in politics - but how do we actually solve this? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
Recorded September 2, 2022
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Aug 26, 2022
#66 - BC NDP leadership, John Rustad, Surrey South and legislature CATS!
The coronation of David Eby as BC NDP leader and premier hits a snag with the entry of climate activist Anajali Appadurai into the race - what does this mean and how has it changed the dynamic? Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad is ejected from the BC Liberal caucus and immediately endorses a BC Conservative in the Surrey South byelection, but will that make a difference in the race? And, should the BC legislature adopt a cat in order to bring harmony and peace to provincial politics? The answer is yes. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier and Katy Merrifield.
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Aug 5, 2022
#65 - A deep dive into the premiership of John Horgan
It's a Matter of Confidence reunion this week on Political Capital as Global BC's Richard Zussman joins Rob Shaw to discuss Premier Horgan's five year tenure and pending retirement. How has Horgan changed over the past decade, what has it been like covering his government and what could his legacy be as he leaves the job? Tune in.
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Jul 22, 2022
#64 - David Eby enters (and already wins?) the BC NDP leadership race
The worst kept secret in BC politics is out: David Eby has launched his campaign to be premier. We break down how he did it, his overwhelming caucus support, what it means for both him and the government, as well as our predictions for the last half of the year. Political Capital is taking a summer break and will be back in late August. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Jul 15, 2022
#63 - Premier Horgan's fight for health care funding, inflation and NDP leadership
Premier John Horgan clashes with the Prime Minister on health care funding, following a meeting of 13 provincial and territorial leaders in Victoria. The PM puts his elbows up and attacks Horgan on the issue - what are the ramifications of this and can a health funding deal still be done? Also, with the Bank of Canada hiking interest rates one percentage point this week, what pressure is the province under to respond with affordability rebates and how would that look? Plus, Finance Minister Selina Robinson mulls entering the BC NDP leadership race to challenge David Eby. Host Rob Shaw is joined by guests Jillian Oliver and the Vancouver Sun's Vaughn Palmer.
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Jul 8, 2022
#62 - Is David Eby (unofficially) the next premier of BC?
David Eby looks to have a stranglehold on the BC NDP leadership race, after Ravi Kahlon drops out. Does that mean the race is over? And what does that mean for the NDP party and government? Plus, premiers across the country gather in Victoria to argue for a boost to health care transfers. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Jun 30, 2022
#61 - Premier John Horgan resigns
In a special edition of the podcast this week, we discuss Premier John Horgan's announcement he is resigning as leader once a new person is selected this fall. Was this a surprise? What does it mean for both the BC NDP and the BC government? And how will the leadership race shape up in the months ahead? Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier break it all down.
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Jun 24, 2022
#60 - Museum backtrack, Horgan's future, and housing affordability
The NDP executes a billion-dollar backtrack on the unpopular Royal BC Museum project, but is the damage already done? Premier Horgan hints at his potential retirement, but is it genuine and what does it mean for the next few months? Plus, housing affordability spirals into several reports, panels, rent caps and more. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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Jun 17, 2022
#59 - Money laundering report and Premier Horgan's declining popularity
The long-awaited public inquiry report into BC's money laundering scandal is complete, so what does it mean for solving the actual problem and how will parties look to capitalize or play defence based on the findings? Plus, two new polls by Angus Reid show the premier's popularity sliding, how much of this is due to the deeply unpopular museum and what other factors are at play? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Jeff Ferrier and two special guests this week — This is VANCOLOUR host Mo Amir, and former BC Liberal politico Barinder Bhullar.
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Jun 10, 2022
#58 - School deferrals, heat dome deaths and BC Liberal name change
The BC government is under fire for saying it doesn't have the money to approve numerous new major school projects this year, at a time it's pushing forward with the $1-billion Royal BC Museum. Is this just political theatre, or a major problem for the government? Also, the coroner releases a report into last year's 619 deaths related to the heat dome, and we take a look at the response. Plus, BC Liberals gather in Penticton to consider changing the party's name - good move, unnecessary or too little too late for the opposition party? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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Jun 3, 2022
#57 - Decriminalization, spring session ends, Premier Horgan's future
BC receives historic permission from Ottawa to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illicit drugs, but is it enough and why did the feds water down the province's original proposal? The spring session of the legislature ends, and we take a dive into what was accomplished and the political dynamics as MLAs head out to the summer BBQ circuit. Plus, is Premier John Horgan considering retiring? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver this week to break down all the latest in BC politics.
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May 27, 2022
#56 - Royal BC Museum controversy continues
The BC government, facing a huge backlash over the $1 billion Royal BC Museum project, unveils the business case to defend itself — did it help or hurt the issue? We take a deep dive into the museum project, and whether the issue will stick around or is a flash in the pan, and what might happen if critics successfully tie it to larger concerns about the government. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver.
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May 20, 2022
#55 - Museum backlash, Kevin Falcon's first week, royalty review, clerk verdict and more
BC's $1 billion museum replacement plan turns it an enormous political controversy - what happened here and what are government's options to fix this crisis? Plus, a look at BC Liberal leader Kevin Falcon's first week in the house. And the panel touches on BC's oil and gas royalty review changes, former clerk Craig James's guilty verdict and a health care protest outside the legislature. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield.
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May 13, 2022
#54 - Gas prices, US draft abortion decision, and BC legislature proposal
BC politicians spar over helping high gas prices, what can actually be done by the province and how does the government manage both the issues of climate change and affordability on a file like gas prices? Plus, provincial political parties address the fallout of the leaked US draft Supreme Court decision against abortion rights. And, MLA Rick Glumac proposes to his fiance on the floor of the legislature - our panel weighs in on if any of us would have the courage to follow through with a public proposal! Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Jeff Ferrier.
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May 6, 2022
#53 - Falcon wins byelection, youth overdose bill and Maclean's last show!
This week the panel dissects Kevin Falcon's byelection win in Vancouver-Quilchena and looks forward to the Surrey South byelection, plus a discussion on the youth overdose stabilization bill that the premier once used for justification for an election but has now cancelled. Also discussed is an environmental lawsuit by the Sierra Club, new race-based data legislation and a new review of prolific criminal offenders. It's Maclean's last show on the panel as he transitions into a post-journalism career, and he walks us through his time on both sides of the media and politics at the BC legislature. Jeff Ferrier and Jillian Oliver also join host Rob Shaw.
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Apr 29, 2022
#52 - The premier's f-bomb, the family doctor crisis and crime concerns
Premier John Horgan makes waves with his use of the f-word on the floor of the legislature, the government faces rising pressure on the family doctor crisis and urban mayors demand action to fix the catch and release justice system. Plus, a discussion about the pros and cons of making law and order a political issue. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jeff Ferrier, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Apr 8, 2022
#51 - Vaccine cards lifted, card check legislation, byelections and LNG vs climate
BC has dropped mandatory vaccination cards, as promised, but it has left some people anxious and others (like BC Green's leader) worried the move is a mistake - did the province strike the right balance? Also, new legislation will make it easier to organize a union, exposing an age-old ideological fight in BC that is set to play out again. Plus, a look at two byelections in the province, and a deep dive into LNG Canada's expansion plans and whether BC can accommodate them in its climate change strategy. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and Jeff Ferrier.
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Apr 1, 2022
#50 - Human Rights Commish on masks, cooling off period in real estate and federal CASA
Should BC's Human Rights Commissioner be wading into the debate on public health orders by asking Dr. Henry to restore the mandatory mask provision? Will a new bill on cooling off periods on real estate make a difference in the market? And how do we reconcile new polling showing Premier John Horgan and his government's popularity is high but people are furious about affordability issues? Plus, a discussion about the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the federal NDP and Liberals, with lessons learned from BC's CASA. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Mar 18, 2022
#49 - BC's expert COVID review, minimum wage and daylight saving time
BC has hired an expert panel to review how it did on COVID-19, but what does it accomplish when public health decisions and economic aid programs are excluded from the scope? Does BC even want to review those areas, and should it? Also, the province's minimum wage goes up and is now linked to inflation, the right move or another blow to businesses still recovering from the pandemic? Plus, the US senate has passed a bill that could end daylight saving time by 2023 - will BC follow suit and should it act on its own if the US house of representatives subsequently kills the idea before it becomes law? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Mar 11, 2022
#48 - COVID masks dropped, gas prices and a new overdose report
BC has dropped masks as part of its new COVID pandemic plan, is the right move, too much too soon and how is it resonating with the public? Plus, Alberta has offered tax relief on high gas prices, putting BC in a bind on the issue - what should government do and what are the political risks on its approach? A new report on the overdose crisis moved Premier John Horgan to strike an all-party committee to examine the issue, but what will that do and is it enough? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jeff Ferrier, Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver.
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Mar 4, 2022
#47 - BC's Ukraine/Russia response, COVID-19 reopening, BC Ferries
What role if any does a province like BC have in responding to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and were the province's actions on liquor, land titles, divestments and immigration the right moves? Plus, BC moves to weekly COVID-19 data which raises the questions about whether health officials should scrap weekly public briefings and if they do what kind of information vacuum is created. Also, a new bill gives government more control over BC Ferries, what's behind it and is it the right move? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and new panelist Jeff Ferrier of Hill and Knowlton to discuss the week in BC politics.
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Feb 25, 2022
#46 - BC budget, minister pay, overdose crisis, new ministers
The BC budget has landed, what's good, bad and meh in the new fiscal plan for the province? Cabinet ministers are getting a 10 per cent salary boost after government drops a holdback that would have docked their pay during deficit budgets, what's behind this change? And the panel talks about a new land stewardship ministry, oil and gas revenue declines, the overdose crisis and more. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and Katy Merrifield.
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Feb 18, 2022
#45 - BC’s reopening, Ottawa’s state of emergency
BC gets ready to loosen some public health restrictions but how will it handle being out of line with other provinces on vaccine cards and masks? Ottawa invokes the Emergencies Act for the first time ever, but was it the right move politically? Plus, BC’s new economic plan, the politics of gas prices and the resignation/legacy of former BC Liberal leader Andrew Wilkinson.
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Feb 11, 2022
#44 - Throne speech, reopening plans and Kevin Falcon
Did the BC government's new throne speech accomplish anything, or what even was the point? BC finds itself dealing with pressure to reopen from COVID restrictions as other provinces act, Kevin Falcon wins the BC Liberal leadership race and a grab bag of other topics. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Feb 4, 2022
#43 - Erin O'Toole defeated, public pressure on vax mandates, BC Liberal leadership predictions
What does the resignation of federal Conservative leader Erin O'Toole mean for the political landscape? What should the BC government do in the face of rising public frustration against vaccine mandates that appears to be an undercurrent in trucker protests? And what has the long scandal-plagued BC Liberal leadership race meant for the future of the party? Plus: Our predictions on who is going to win. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Jan 28, 2022
#42 - BC vax pass, trucker convoy, Fairy Creek, housing and BC Liberal leadership race.
BC extends the vaccine card, what's been the reaction and what does it mean for the future of health restrictions? Plus, a look at the last week of the BC Liberal leadership race and a grab bag of topics including Fairy Creek court ruling, the controversial trucker convoy and BC signaling it wants municipalities to speed up building permits to address housing affordability. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and Katy Merrifield.
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Jan 21, 2022
#41 - COVID confusion and the final BC Liberal leadership debate.
A confusing week on COVID restrictions has the government on the defensive - what happened and what are the implications? Plus, candidates in the BC Liberal leadership race hold their final debate before the February 5 vote - who won, and what are the considerations in the final days of the race? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Jan 14, 2022
#40 - Vax tax, BC Liberal leadership controversy, housing affordability woes.
BC is quick out of the gate to rule out following Quebec's tax on the unvaccinated, is this the right move? The BC Liberals face internal controversy over membership sign-ups in the dying days of the party's leadership race - we break down what's going on. And BC raises the threshold for the homeowners grant, is that an admission that housing affordability is still out of control? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Jan 7, 2022
#39 - BC is facing rising frustration and blowback to its decisions on rapid tests, booster doses and COVID-19 public health restrictions.
Has BC lost public confidence and is there anything it can do to get it back? Host Rob Shaw is joined by the panel: Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Dec 10, 2021
#38 - A 2021 year-in-review: Highs and lows, and top political players.
The show ends 2021 with a blockbuster year-in-review, as the panel picks the best and worst moments for the BC NDP, Liberals and Greens in a year dominated by crises and extraordinary events. In a podcast extra, we each pick the top performers from each party, and debate their performances for the year. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay. Political Capital will be back in January 2022!
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Dec 3, 2021
#37 - BC's disaster response criticized again, a missed deadline on old growth and more
BC is sharply criticized for slow disaster response by the Fraser Valley Regional District, exposing flaws in its local-first emergency system. First Nations push back on a 30-day old growth deadline, throwing the province's plan into doubt. And the minister responsible for FOI faces accusations she misled the legislature. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay this week.
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Nov 26, 2021
#36 - BC disaster response, new provincial sick pay and the fall legislative session ends
The province attempts to do a better job preparing and responding to the next round of storms. A new 5-day sick pay program fails to please organized labour and the business community, but is likely still an important win for the government. And the fall session of the legislature ends with government shutting down debate and ramming bills through, amid controversy. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Sarah Miller.
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Nov 19, 2021
#35 - BC devastating flooding, how did the province respond, and new legislation on bubble zones, childcare, and logging.
BC is hit by devastating flooding and landslides, how did the province respond and what needs to be improved for the future? As well, major new legislation on bubble zones to protect hospitals and schools from anti-vaxx protesters, a complex new forestry bill that affects old growth logging, and government's shift away from new for-profit childcare spaces. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver to discuss.
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Nov 5, 2021
#34 - New old growth deferrals, BC's decriminalization application, autism funding, COP26, heat dome deaths, and sexism in the BC Liberal le
BC's new old growth deferral plan picks up criticism from all quarters, the province asks Ottawa to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illicit drugs, and a grab bag of topics this week that looks at controversy on changes to autism funding, the COP26 climate conference and new figures on the summer heat dome deaths. The panel also discusses allegations of sexism in the BC Liberal leadership race after a disturbing incident involving a staffer from the Kevin Falcon campaign. Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and former BC Green strategist Sarah Miller.
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Oct 29, 2021
#33 - Premier's health, climate plan 2.0, FOI fight
Premier John Horgan has revealed a personal health challenge - we wish him well, while also asking what if anything this means for the functioning of government and the legislature. Plus, the government releases a new climate plan that has its share of proponents and critics, as well as continues its fight to push through contentious new FOI legislation. Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Oct 22, 2021
#32 - FOI fees spark backlash, federal vaccine passports, and alternate COVID-19 briefings
Premier John Horgan's government finds itself accused of hypocrisy by bringing in new fees on FOI, BC is off-side with a new federal vaccine passport system meaning people here will have to work with two vaccine cards, and a group of doctors starts alternative COVID-19 briefings to criticize Dr. Bonnie Henry. Plus, we look at the one-year anniversary of the Horgan government's majority election victory and muse about whether the premier will run again. Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Oct 15, 2021
#31 - BC's first mandatory vaccine requirement, and Aaron Gunn enters BC Liberal leadership race.
BC has started its first mandatory vaccine rule in the seniors' care sector, how many people would rather lose their jobs than comply and what does this mean for future vaccine requirements in other public sector jobs? Also, we take a deep dive into conservative pundit Aaron Gunn launching his campaign for BC Liberal leader, what does it mean for the party and what will happen if he is approved or rejected to enter the race? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield and Maclean Kay this week.
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Oct 8, 2021
#30 - BC punts teacher vaccines to school districts, and week one of the fall BCleg session
BC is under fire for its decision to require 60 different school districts to vote on whether to make vaccines mandatory for teachers and school staff, why is it doing this and what are the political risks ahead? We also take a dive into the first week of the fall session of the BC legislature, what happened, what didn't and is anyone paying attention? Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield.
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Oct 1, 2021
#29 - Old growth logging, school masks and BC Liberal leadership debate
BC Supreme Court has tossed Premier John Horgan the hot potato of continued old growth logging protests at Fairy Creek, what does this mean for his government? Plus a revolt my parents has led to changes to BC’s mask policy for school-aged children, and we look at who won and lost the first BC Liberal leadership debate. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Sep 24, 2021
#28 - Winners and losers in the federal election, plus fights in BC over COVID-19 data
The panel takes a deep dive into the federal election - what should each party take away from the results and what did we accomplish other than virtually identical results to 2019? We also look at the fate of each of the party leaders, and implications for BC politics. Plus, BC is backtracking to provide data for parents on school exposures, but the fight over what information the province releases on COVID and when continues. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay.
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Sep 17, 2021
#27 - Federal election predictions and Alaska attacks BC on cruise ships
With just days before the 2021 federal election, the panel offers up their predictions and analysis of the final few days. Plus, why is Premier John Horgan picking a fight with Alaska and why is Alaska coming for BC's cruise ship sector? We also discuss BC Green leader Sonia Furstenau's impact on BC politics at her one-year anniversary as leader. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver.
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Sep 10, 2021
#26 - BC's new vaccine card system and the federal election debate.
The province unveils a new vaccine passport system to access restaurants, movie theatres and more - how did it land and what does the path forward look like for this program in the face of a small but vocal group of anti-vaxxers? We also break down the federal leaders' debate to see who comes out with momentum for the last week of the election campaign. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver.
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Sep 3, 2021
#25 - BC vaccination protests, the overdose crisis and federal election week 3.
What should the BC government do in the face of anti-vaccination passport protests that disrupted health care services? And has the time finally come to take drastic action to curb the overdose crisis, in the wake of more record-breaking death counts due to the toxic drug supply? Plus we take a look at week three of the federal election campaign. Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver.
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Aug 27, 2021
#24 - BC gets mixed reviews for its new mandatory mask and vaccine policies, plus the province's back to school plan.
BC's mandatory mask and vaccine strategies draw mixed reactions, and the province's back-to-school plan doesn't seem to land well either. Plus a look at week two of the federal election campaign and whether the issue of Afghanistan will become a leadership problem for Liberal leader Justin Trudeau. Host Rob Shaw discusses the week with Jillian Oliver, Katy Merrifield, and Maclean Kay.
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Aug 20, 2021
#23 - The new federal election, plus John Horgan takes a holiday during BC’s wildfires.
We take a deep dive into the new federal election - what leaders, issues and parties emerged from week one with momentum. Plus, Premier John Horgan is under fire for a holiday during the wildlife crisis - is this a big scandal or much ado about nothing? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Jul 30, 2021
#22 - Good news/bad news on COVID-19, BC posts a $5.5 billion deficit and would US-style cash incentive for vaccination work in BC?
BC takes one step forward in its fight against COVID-19 with a new "vax to the max" campaign, but also has to crack down with new restrictions on an outbreak in the central Okanagan, so are we falling backwards? Also, what to make of B.C.'s $5.5 billion deficit and the new public accounts report. Should the Governor General refuse an early election request from PM Justin Trudeau, as suggested by the federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh? And if the US is offering $100 to people to get vaccinated, would that work in BC? Plus a podcast extra on a new Elections BC report into the 2020 election, which was full of historic firsts and extra costs. Host Rob Shaw is joined by the regular panel, Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver.
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Jul 23, 2021
#21 - Wildfire emergency, a top NDP strategist retires, and the federal Green implosion continues.
BC is now in a state of emergency due to wildfires, NDP strategist Bob Dewar retires after five years of reshaping BC politics and the clown car crash of the federal Greens continues. Plus a fascinating discussion on the changing boundaries of how ministers and politicians can treat their staff, and what is acceptable in this day and age, amid stories of a toxic work environment in a federal cabinet minister's office. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Evan Pivnick, Katy Merrifield and Maclean Kay.
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Jul 16, 2021
#20 - BC ambulance reforms, new safe drug supply and the return of US cruise ships.
BC tries to fix its beleaguered ambulance service but are the resources enough to tackle a political crisis? Health officials offer new prescription drug supply in a bid to reduce overdoses. Ottawa opens up our waters to cruise ships, but BC still faces the risk of losing the entire cruise sector due to US legislation. Plus a callback from July 2017 when Premier John Horgan unveiled his new cabinet, what were his successes, failures and learning lessons from his first front bench?
Rob Shaw is joined by panellists Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and special guest Danielle Dalzell.
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Jul 9, 2021
#19 - Ottawa bails BC out on child care, Horgan gaffe on heat wave, NDP constituency assistants vote to strike.
Trudeau delivers funding to supercharge BC’s $10-a-day child care promise. The premier commits another gaffe on heatwave deaths but does it matter? And NDP Constituencies could be behind picket lines soon after a strike vote. Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver, and Katy Merrifield to discuss all the latest in BC politics.
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Jun 25, 2021
#18 - BC rejects a new housing affordability report, and scandals mount in Ottawa amid early election speculation.
Canada's Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister is facing resignation calls for a racist text, BC's finance minister rejects major recommendations to cool the real estate market in a new expert report on housing affordability and election speculation in Ottawa reaches a fever pitch amid a growing number of scandals for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's party.
Plus, we examine new BC Liberal leadership candidate Val Litwin, and look back in our callback segment to the "Clone Speech" of 2017 when then-Premier Christy Clark changed all her positions to try and stay in power.
Host Rob Shaw is joined by the weekly political panel, Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay, and Katy Merrifield.
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Jun 18, 2021
#17 - Spring legislative session, premier's office budget, and the imploding federal Greens.
We review what was accomplished as the spring session of the B.C. legislature ends, kick around whether the rising budget of the premier's office is a big deal and dig into why the federal Green party is imploding and what it might mean for the upcoming federal election.
In our podcast extras this week, we jump back into the time machine to June 2018 when Attorney General David Eby released the rules into the proportional representation referendum - did that kill PR on the spot, and what would B.C. politics look like had it passed? Host Rob Shaw is joined by his regular political panel: Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield.
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Jun 11, 2021
#16 - First Nations and old growth logging, U.S. cruise ships and more.
Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jillian Oliver to discuss all the latest in B.C. politics, as well as this week's Hot Take question: Should politicians ever cross the floor, or is that the political kiss of death? Our podcast extra topics cover a new B.C. Liberal postmortem into the 2020 election loss, and the launch of Michael Lee's B.C. Liberal leadership campaign. Plus Rob has a spicy hot take on the controversy over MLA Renee Merrifield's tabling of a petition by angry parents opposed to masks in schools.
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Jun 4, 2021
#15 - Residential schools, BC's new forestry plan and the overdose crisis
Green MLA Adam Olsen delivers a powerful speech to the legislature on residential schools, our panel analyzes Premier John Horgan's new forestry plan and we explore why political parties won't cooperate to tackle the public health crisis on overdose deaths. Plus, a callback to a dramatic 24 hours in the house around Speaker Darryl Plecas in 2019. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay this week.
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May 28, 2021
#14 - A deep dive into B.C.'s restart 2.0 plan, plus old growth protests in the Premier's riding
How does B.C.'s long-awaited restart plan change the political landscape? Premier John Horgan is facing heavy pressure due to protests in his riding against old growth logging at Fairy Creek, so why isn't he responding? Plus a callback segment on the "rugby summit" between Horgan and Andrew Weaver in 2017 and how it set the stage for an NDP-Green power-sharing deal. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and special guest this week Marie Della Mattia.
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May 21, 2021
#13 - Kevin Falcon leadership, BC vaccine passports and Alaska bypasses BC on cruise ships
Former finance minister Kevin Falcon launches his leadership bid with a giant target on his back, what should he do next? BC confirms its developing a vaccine passport but are the privacy concerns enough to derail the idea? And an angry Alaskan congressional delegation makes Premier John Horgan the villain as they pass legislation to bypass BC during cruise ship season - how did that get so out of control so quickly? Host Rob Shaw is joined by Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield to break down the latest in BC politics - with an extended audio podcast discussion about leadership campaigns and a callback to the 2013 BC election, when everything started to change...
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May 7, 2021
#12 - B.C. hides COVID-19 data, Ottawa's confusion on vaccines and political parties debate public funding.
B.C. is caught withholding vast amounts of COVID-19 data from the public - why would it do this? A federal advisory committee on vaccines embarrass itself by issuing confusing information on AstraZeneca vaccines. B.C. politicians debate whether to continue giving their own political parties a per-vote subsidy, and we break down the latest fundraising numbers. Rob Shaw debates the week in politics with panelists Maclean Kay and Katy Merrifield - (Jillian is returning next week).
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Apr 30, 2021
#11 - Sick pay delays, pop-up vaccine confusion and tent city deadline.
What's taking the Horgan government so long to come up with a sick pay plan? How did health officials so badly bungle pop-up vaccine sites in Surrey? And will the province hit its deadline to clear tent cities in Vancouver and Victoria? Host Rob Shaw discusses the week in BC politics with Jillian Oliver, Katy Merrifield and Maclean Kay. Plus a discussion of money-laundering commission and a look back at the career of Health Minister Adrian Dix.
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Apr 23, 2021
#10 - Dr. Bonnie Henry
Dr. Henry, B.C.'s provincial health officer, joins host Rob Shaw to talk about the pandemic, new travel restrictions, how Vancouver Island is performing in the pandemic, the delicate balance of public health orders and what it's like to be constantly second-guessed by armchair critics. Then, the weekly political panel of Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield convene to analyze the BC budget and the clumsy rollout of travel restrictions.
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Apr 16, 2021
#9 - BC's new throne speech is (deliberately?) boring, the overdose crisis hits year five and old growth logging protests.
BC tries to walk a tightrope in its throne speech between a raging COVID-19 crisis and plotting a post-pandemic plan; a somber fifth anniversary for the province's other crisis, the public health emergency on overdose deaths; Vancouver's new mayoral candidates emerge 18 months before the election; and First Nations politics complicates the ongoing old growth logging protests at Fairy Creek but also gives government an out on a difficult file. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield to discuss all BC's political news, plus our hot takes on an MP whose nudity was caught on camera in the House of Commons Zoom feed.
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Apr 9, 2021
#8 - Those dang youths not following COVID restrictions, Greens propose a lockdown and restaurants get a partial bailout.
Premier John Horgan struggles to get out from under criticism for blaming young people about COVID-19 spread two weeks later, the BC Greens propose a sweeping three-week lockdown, restaurants get a partial bailout, Gavin Dew enters the BC Liberal leadership race and the money-laundering public inquiry calls a former premier to testify. Host Rob Shaw is joined by Katy Merrifield, Maclean Kay and Jilian Oliver to discuss all the news in BC politics.
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Mar 26, 2021
#7 - Homelessness, expensive toilets and advice to political parties at the half-way point of the spring legislative session.
BC's new aggressive stance on housing and homelessness, questions swirl around Vancouver's $645,000 toilet, and our panel gives BC's political parties some advice as they hit the half-way mark of the spring legislative session. Plus, what should the BC government do if anything to salvage its relationship with Alaska on cruise ships? Rob Shaw and panelists Katy Merrifield, Jillian Oliver and Maclean Kay break down the latest news in B.C. politics.
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Mar 19, 2021
#6 - BC picks essential workers for vaccines, hikes assistance rates, and fights with Penticton over housing.
BC decides who is 'essential' enough for an early vaccine, the largest hike to assistance rates in history falls flat and the case of David Eby VS the City of Penticton highlights challenges in the housing/homeless file.
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Mar 12, 2021
#5 - Vaccination call-centre collapse, the ups and downs on the pandemic, and more
What should the public make about a wild week of ups and downs on BC's pandemic response? Rob, Katy, Jillian, and Maclean break it all down, including how the government created a villain in Telus to blame for the problems. As well, the BC Greens manage to pause a government firearm bill with concerns about First Nations consultation, and the Greens continue to raise important questions about mental health treatment.
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Mar 5, 2021
#4 - BC’s new vaccine rollout plan, pandemic politics, a new renters’ law, and more...
Rob, Katy, Jillian and Maclean tackle BC’s changes to its vaccine rollout strategy, the difficult line politicians have to walk in pandemic politics at the legislature, why a new renters’ bill is smart politics, ICBC reforms getting shot down by court, and a new report into the horrendous misogyny facing female politicians and staff across party lines.
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Feb 26, 2021
#3 - Site C gets approved (again), the legislature is set to return amid confusion, and housing prices continue to soar.
Premier John Horgan doubles down on the Site C dam with a controversial decision to approve a new $16 billion budget, but did he have any other choice? Rob Shaw and the political panel of Maclean Kay, Katy Merrifield and Jillian Oliver debate dam politics, the return of the legislature, housing prices and an online social media campaign by the province for mental health bingo that went horribly wrong.
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Feb 19, 2021
#2 - BC loses to churches in court, Site C, and the Liberal leadership race.
B.C. gets dealt a major blow in its pandemic enforcement with an interesting court ruling in favour of churches. Liberal leader Andrew Wilkinson resigns (again), and the biggest, most expensive scandal nobody is talking about - the troubled Site C dam. Host Rob Shaw discusses the latest BC political news with Jillian Oliver, Maclean Kay and Katy Merrifield.
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Feb 12, 2021
#1 - Pandemic politics, ICBC and the overdose crisis.
For our first show, host Rob Shaw is joined by Maclean Kay, Jillian Oliver and Katy Merrifield to discuss the government's response to COVID-19, ICBC's rebate program, the ongoing overdose crisis, the prospect of a snap federal election and a look back at the Wet'suwet'en protest on the Coastal Gaslink pipeline from a year ago and where we are now.
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Feb 10, 2021
Political Capital Preview
An introduction from Rob.
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