The latest edition of Inside Winnipeg Politics brought together Winnipeg Sun columnists Geoff Currier, Royce Koop, and Kevin Klein to discuss the implications of Canada’s federal government proroguing Parliament. The panel analyzed how this pause impacts accountability, efficiency, and fairness in governance. Kevin Klein argued that members of Parliament should face conditions similar to those of private-sector employees during prorogation. He suggested that if Parliament is not sitting, MPs should not receive pay and maybe be laid off, drawing attention to the disparity between political operations and private-sector realities. His viewpoint aimed to highlight elected officials' financial and ethical responsibility during legislative inactivity. Royce Koop raised concerns about the broader consequences of prorogation. He noted that when Parliament is prorogued, government accountability is diminished, as no legislative body is in session to scrutinize decisions. This lack of oversight, he argued, creates a potential vacuum in transparency and leaves Canadians without a crucial mechanism for holding leaders accountable. Geoff Currier focused on clarifying prorogation and its functional implications. He explained that while it pauses the legislative agenda, other branches of government continue to operate. Currier emphasized that the real issue is how this pause is used and whether it serves the public interest rather than simply being a procedural break. The discussion showcases a range of perspectives on how prorogation affects governance. Klein’s focus on fiscal responsibility contrasted with Koop’s emphasis on the need for accountability and oversight, while Currier’s insights provided a clearer understanding of the procedural elements at play. The panel’s analysis reflected the complexities of managing a political system during a pause in legislative activity. #politics #politicalnews #canada #manitoba #winnipeg

This edition of Inside Winnipeg Politics brings together Sun columnists Geoff Currier, Royce Koop, and Kevin Klein to discuss the growing crisis in Manitoba’s healthcare system. The panel dives into the tragic death of a man who waited eight hours for care at the Health Sciences Centre emergency department. The conversation centers on Klein’s recent column, which criticizes Premier Wab Kinew and the NDP government for failing to deliver meaningful solutions to the province’s healthcare challenges. In the column, Klein argues that political egos and a lack of practical leadership have worsened an already dire situation, calling for immediate action and the involvement of experts to overhaul the system. Currier and Koop share their perspectives, exploring broader systemic issues and questioning the role of government in addressing such complex problems. The discussion is timely, following public outrage and growing calls for accountability following recent events. The panel also examines whether the NDP’s approach, including promises of additional hospital beds, is enough to address long-standing capacity issues. They debate whether Manitoba’s healthcare model needs a complete rethink and whether political leaders can lead that change. Viewers can expect a thoughtful discussion that illuminates the healthcare crisis and the role of elected officials. This edition promises a candid debate on one of Manitoba's most pressing issues today.

In this edition of Inside Winnipeg Politics, Winnipeg Sun columnists Geoff Currier, Royce Koop, and Kevin Klein tackle some of the most pressing topics in Canadian politics. From Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's controversial appearance on U.S. television to local MLAs criticizing former President Donald Trump, the panel dives deep into the implications of these actions for Canada’s international standing. The conversation highlights concerns about how Canadian leaders represent the nation abroad. The panel describes Trudeau’s appearance as embarrassing and discusses its impact on Canada’s reputation with its largest trading partner. Currier and Koop offer insights into the public perception of such appearances, while Klein focuses on the importance of strategic diplomacy and negotiation control. Turning to local MLAs' criticism of Trump, the panel raises questions about the effectiveness of this approach. Klein emphasizes that such actions may hurt Canada’s ability to negotiate effectively with the U.S. He argues that Canada holds a strong position in trade discussions due to its wealth of natural resources and critical minerals. "We are in the driver’s seat," Klein asserts, "and Trump knows it. So, let’s act like it.” The panel agrees that Canada needs to approach its relationship with the U.S. with intelligence and a focus on diplomacy. They stress the importance of leveraging the nation’s strengths rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric, which risks damaging critical partnerships. #justintrudeau #canada #politics

On the latest episode of Inside Winnipeg Politics, columnists Currier, Koop, and Klein discussed a recent statement by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Poilievre suggested eliminating the hyphen in Canada, sparking a conversation about national identity and unity. Koop, a political science professor at the University of Manitoba, supported the idea, seeing it as a step toward fostering a stronger sense of togetherness among Canadians. Klein pointed out that he had already advocated for removing hyphens in columns published in the Winnipeg Sun last year, declaring that Canadians should not have to apologize for their national identity. The panel discussed a recent poll that revealed only 34% of Canadians consider themselves "very proud" of their country. Klein attributed this decline to the rise of DEI policies, which he called “woke bullies,” and the politicians who failed to oppose them. He argued that these trends have undermined traditional values and distorted the concept of what it means to be Canadian. At one point, the panel asked, “What does it mean to be Canadian anymore?” They debated whether anyone today could provide a definitive answer. Koop and Currier reflected on the diverse interpretations of Canadian identity, but all agreed the question had grown increasingly difficult to answer. Klein emphasized that restoring pride and unity requires reclaiming a clear and shared vision of what it means to be Canadian. Currier offered a more cautious perspective, noting that while eliminating the hyphen has symbolic appeal, addressing deeper societal divisions will require more than rhetoric. He highlighted the need for meaningful actions to restore pride and confidence in Canadian identity. The panel’s discussion reflected differing views on how to navigate the challenges of modern Canadian identity, with each bringing their own perspective to the debate. Watch Currier, Koop, and Klein tackle this topic with their signature candour as they explore what it means to be Canadian in today’s political climate. #pierrepoilievre #canada #politics #politicalnews

On the latest episode of Inside Winnipeg Politics, columnists Currier, Koop, and Klein call it like it is after details of federal transfer payments were revealed. Manitoba is set to receive $4.7 billion in transfer funds from Ottawa, a significant sum that sparked sharp criticism from the panel about lazy Manitoba Politicians. Currier and Koop questioned why there seems to be little drive to make Manitoba more self-sufficient. Koop noted the lack of long-term planning and vision, while Currier raised concerns about the province's dependence on federal money. Both columnists pointed to the absence of meaningful initiatives to grow the economy and reduce reliance on transfers as a troubling sign for Manitoba’s future. Klein offered a blunt assessment, stating that the problem lies in a culture of complacency among politicians. "It’s far too easy for lazy politicians to spend other people’s money," he said, emphasizing that this attitude is prevalent at all levels of government in Manitoba. He argued that the lack of accountability and urgency has hindered the province's progress for years. The panellists hold nothing back as they dissect Manitoba’s reliance on federal aid and its leadership failures. Watch Currier, Koop, and Klein tackle the tough questions about the province’s future and, as always, deliver their unfiltered take on the issues that matter most. #politics #politicalnews #canada #winnipeg #manitoba

On Inside Winnipeg Politics, Currier, Koop, and Klein ask, “Is it time for a new conservative party?” A real conservative party to serve Manitobans? That question resonates more loudly with each passing day as the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba continues to falter in its duty to represent conservative values and principles. The Manitoba PC Party has failed to address significant concerns raised about its integrity and financial management. The recent election expenses scandal is a glaring example. Manitobans are still waiting for answers about the rental car invoice linked to a sex coach, invoices submitted without addresses, and glaring mathematical errors on invoices that included a former MP among them. Over $250,000 was handed to Campaign Compass, with even more money paid to an Alberta-based company, yet the public remains in the dark about what these expenditures achieved or what they were indeed for. This lack of transparency undermines trust and calls into question whether this party is fit to represent the interests of conservatives. The PC Party has also strayed from its foundational values of fiscal responsibility and principled governance. Once the adults in the room when it came to financial stewardship, they have become increasingly indistinguishable from their ideological opponents. Their misguided spending during the last election, their refusal to address the ongoing Sio Silica investigation, and their general lack of accountability reflect a party adrift. This drift is evident in their failure to confront divisive societal issues. Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently told the National Post, “Go see a pro-Israel demonstration and then go see a pro-Hamas demonstration. The difference is that only at the Israeli demonstration will they be carrying the Canadian flag. If you see a Canadian flag at the other group, they’ll be burning it. And that’s all you need to know about why Canada should be supporting Israel — they are our friends, and the other side is not. It’s that simple.” Manitobans deserve a party that unequivocally stands against importing ancient hatreds into our communities. Harper’s call to action — “We cannot start importing age-old hatreds onto our streets…we need to do something about this” — should have been echoed loudly by the PC Party. Instead, their silence is deafening. Worse, Obby Khan’s letter in support of a University of Manitoba student accused of anti-Semitism raises further questions about the party’s commitment to conservative principles. Across Canada, we’ve seen examples of new parties emerging when the old guard fails to deliver. The Saskatchewan Party was born out of frustration with the traditional Progressive Conservative and Liberal parties. Today, it’s a dominant force, embodying the values of fiscal responsibility, principled governance, and common sense that resonate with Saskatchewan voters. Manitoba could follow a similar path if conservatives come together to create a party that genuinely represents their interests. Activists with radical agendas infiltrating political parties have eroded trust and led to a shift away from core values. The WOKE movement has divided communities and even conservative parties, forcing them to adopt positions that alienate their base. True conservatism is about respect for tradition, individual responsibility, and pragmatic governance—not bending to the demands of a loud minority seeking to impose its worldview on everyone else. The PC Party has lost its way, becoming entangled in the very WOKE rebellion that conservatives reject. It is no longer a vehicle for promoting conservative ideals but a shadow of its former self, beholden to insiders and activists. This is why the idea of a new conservative party deserves serious consideration. A new party could serve as a fresh start, unencumbered by the baggage of past scandals and free to prioritize Manitobans' needs. It could focus on core conservative principles: fiscal responsibility, public safety, and respect for individual freedoms. It could stand firmly against the divisive ideologies that have permeated other political parties and work to unite Manitobans around shared values. The WOKE movement has fractured society, but it has also presented an opportunity for conservatives to reclaim their identity. A new conservative party could be the answer, providing a platform for those who feel abandoned by the PC Party to unite and rebuild. It would not be easy, but as history has shown, bold action often leads to meaningful change. The question is no longer whether the PC Party can reform itself. The question is whether Manitobans are ready to demand something better. The time has come to have an honest conversation about the future of conservatism in Manitoba. A new conservative party may be the only way forward. #politics #manitoba #winnipeg

Trudeau Needs to Go Now: Delayed Departure Raises Concerns Over Canada’s Future In a special edition of Inside Winnipeg Politics, Geoff Currier, Royce Koop, and Kevin Klein discussed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of his departure. The decision to delay his departure has frustrated many Canadians and Liberal caucus members. Kevin Klein remarked during the discussion that many within the Liberal caucus have publicly urged Trudeau to step down immediately, not on his own timeline. He said Canadians deserve leadership that acts without delay. The panel raised concerns about the implications of Trudeau’s delayed departure. With Parliament not in session, Trudeau retains authority without the usual checks and balances of parliamentary oversight. Klein questioned what harm could be done in the three months before Trudeau leaves. He said Canadians are vulnerable to any decisions made during this period without parliamentary accountability. The conversation also explored the leadership race within the Liberal Party. Royce Koop noted the challenges for any candidate stepping forward to replace Trudeau, highlighting the difficulty of rebuilding trust with the electorate. Geoff Currier added that Trudeau’s extended timeline leaves potential candidates uncertain about how to position their campaigns or differentiate themselves. The panel also discussed the role of NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who holds the balance of power through his agreement with the Liberals. Currier noted Singh’s reluctance to take action against the government but suggested he may have no choice but to reassess his position. Klein suggested that Singh’s decisions will define his legacy, as he has the power to bring down the government but has so far hesitated to act. The panel concluded that Trudeau’s delayed departure creates uncertainty and disrupts parliamentary processes. Klein stated that this delay does not serve the best interests of Canadians, emphasizing the need for decisive leadership. #politics #justintrudeau #canada

The panel of Currier, Koop, and Klein is back on Inside Winnipeg Politics, and this time, they’ve set their sights on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Dubbed “Trudeau Watch,” the columnists are examining the increasing calls for Trudeau’s resignation as frustrations within the Liberal Party grow. Even Winnipeg Liberal MP Ben Carr has joined the chorus, publicly suggesting that Trudeau may need to step down. This marks a significant shift as more caucus members voice their dissatisfaction with his leadership. Yet, the panelists are unanimous in their belief that Trudeau’s ego will prevent him from willingly relinquishing power. Koop remains convinced Trudeau will lead the party into the next federal election, expected in October. He points to Trudeau’s history of defying political odds and the inertia within the party as reasons the prime minister will stay the course. Klein, however, is holding out hope for an early election, arguing the responsibility no longer lies solely with Trudeau. “It’s on every Liberal MP who has the power to remove him,” Klein asserts. He doesn’t spare the NDP either, accusing them of propping up what he describes as a “lame-duck prime minister” whose policies have pushed the country to a critical tipping point. The panellists pull no punches as they debate whether the prime minister’s leadership can withstand the growing internal and external pressures. Watch Currier, Koop, and Klein as they break down the future of Canada’s political landscape and, as always, tell it like it is.