06:55

Liberals eye home equity tax while Canadians shout ‘fake news’ and hurl emojis

The response to my recent column on the Liberal government’s quiet interest in taxing your home equity was predictable — but revealing.

09:12

Kevin Klein Exposes Liberal Plan to Tax Your Home Equity

In a charged interview on the Ben Mulroney show—hosted by Alex Pierson in his absence—Kevin Klein, president of the Winnipeg Sun and former Manitoba cabinet minister, weighed in on the financial crisis looming over Canada as the federal government, now led by Mark Carney, prepares to roll out another $130 billion in new spending. Pierson expressed frustration over the country’s ballooning $1.4 trillion debt and rising inflation, joking that Canadians might soon need to start OnlyFans accounts to help pay the tab. Klein didn’t disagree, pointing out that debt servicing costs now surpass provincial transfer payments and noting the real concern isn’t just the spending—it’s how Ottawa plans to fund it. According to Klein, the answer may lie in a home equity tax, a concept quietly explored multiple times by the Liberals and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation despite repeated public denials. Klein argued that the federal government sees untapped home equity—worth trillions nationwide—as a lucrative source of future revenue. He warned that this could soon be sold to the public as a so-called “fairness tax,” targeting Canadians who’ve been responsible with their finances. The discussion turned to the broader implications of this fiscal path: $40 billion in recent federal spending approved via special warrants while Parliament was closed, another $150 million sent to the CBC under the label of “emergency funding,” and widespread economic strain across households. Klein and Pierson both questioned the lack of transparency and accountability in these moves, drawing comparisons to executive overreach and pointing out that few Canadians are seeing real benefits. With a possible Liberal majority on the horizon, Klein urged voters—especially younger generations—to pay close attention to fiscal policy, not personalities, before it’s too late. Read Klein's column for all the details on Home Equity Tax here: https://winnipegsun.com/opinion/columnists/klein-beware-the-next-liberal-tax-may-be-on-the-roof-over-your-head

29:02

Singh’s Meltdown, Bloc’s Power Play & Carney’s Trump Distraction

This week’s episode of Inside Politics with Kevin Klein tackled the fallout from the English-language federal leaders’ debate, aired just before the Easter weekend. Klein, a former politician and Minister of Environment in Manitoba, was joined by Winnipeg Sun contributors Jeff Currier and Royce Koop, a political science professor at the University of Manitoba, for a wide-ranging and at times blunt discussion about the state of the campaign, the debate format, and what Canadians can expect as the election draws near. The three wasted little time digging into their main concern—the structure of the debate itself. Currier was critical of the current model, calling it “more showbiz than substance” and arguing for a return to direct, journalist-led interviews with leaders. “We’d learn a lot more from tough questions over an hour than these set-piece stage performances,” he said. Koop was slightly more forgiving of the format, noting that this debate was better than some previous ones. “When candidates were allowed to actually debate each other, you saw who they really were,” he said. But Koop also flagged the persistent interruptions—especially from NDP leader Jagmeet Singh—as a problem that hurt the debate’s clarity and public value. He suggested Canada follow the U.S. example and consider muting microphones when candidates aren’t speaking. Klein, meanwhile, focused his concern on the participation of Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet, calling it undemocratic. He noted the Green Party was excluded from the French debate for not fielding candidates in every riding—yet the Bloc, which runs in only one province, was given a national platform. “That wasn’t a fair debate,” Klein said. “It felt like we were watching someone negotiating power, not discussing Canada’s future.” Currier acknowledged the tension. “It’s awkward. You have a separatist party participating in shaping national conversation,” he said. But he added it’s politically difficult to exclude the Bloc in Quebec-specific events. Koop pushed back on that logic, suggesting debate criteria should change: “A party should have to run candidates in more than one province to participate. This is supposed to be a national debate.” Discussion then turned to the broader tone and content of the debate itself. Currier dismissed the entire event as “devoid of big moments” and full of “falsehoods from all sides,” citing misleading claims from Carney, Polievre, and Singh alike. “I wasn’t impressed by any of them,” he said. Koop took a different view, saying Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre emerged as the clear winner, pointing to his measured tone and emotional close. “Polievre connected his policies to real struggles Canadians are facing. It was effective,” Koop said, referencing polling data that showed Poilievre scored best among viewers who watched the full debate. The episode also touched on the rising concern over media framing and access. The panel criticized the Debate Commission’s decision to cancel post-debate media scrums, which Klein said undermined transparency. The exclusion of certain outlets sparked questions about fairness and freedom of the press. “The Debate Commission has not performed well this election,” Koop said. Currier added that media coverage overall has been “superficial,” lacking deep analysis on economic policy. “We’re talking more about Trump than GDP, and Canada’s dead last in G7 growth,” he said. Klein closed the segment warning of a potential post-election Liberal-Bloc coalition. “If the Bloc props up a Liberal government, what does that mean for Western Canada? What incentive is there for Alberta or Saskatchewan to stay in confederation?” he asked. Koop and Currier noted that while the Bloc may hold influence, current polling trends suggest a possible Liberal majority, fueled in part by the NDP’s collapse. But they agreed: polling isn’t always reliable. “The shy Tory effect is real,” Koop noted. “We may see things tighten in the final days.” Klein concluded by encouraging viewers to keep watching and stay engaged as the race unfolds. New episodes of Inside Politics with Kevin Klein air weekly. Readers can find commentary from Klein, Currier, and Koop in the Winnipeg Sun and online at winnipegsun.com.

32:40

Inside Politics Blasts CBC Bias, Media Manipulation & Liberal Election Tactics

The latest episode of Inside Politics with Kevin Klein, Jeff Currier, and Royce Koop focused on ethics in Canada’s federal election campaign, media bias, and growing concern over economic policy being sidelined in favour of political theatre. As early voting ramps up at Elections Canada offices, the trio noted an uptick in political activity and attention. “I’ve never seen so many staff,” said Klein, referencing a nearby Elections Canada site. “People are coming in early to vote. There’s momentum.” But that momentum, the panel agreed, has been overshadowed by controversy. A Liberal campaign tactic involving planted pro-Trump buttons at a conservative conference has sparked criticism. The buttons, designed to associate Conservatives with American politics, were reportedly placed by Liberal staffers later overheard discussing their actions at a bar near Parliament Hill. Royce Koop, a political science professor and Winnipeg Sun columnist, called the stunt a “dirty tricks campaign” and said the decision by Liberal leadership to quietly reassign rather than fire those involved shows a lack of accountability. “This kind of sneaky business alienates people from politics,” Koop said. “It’s why good people don’t run for office.” Currier echoed that sentiment, calling the move “unconscionable.” He said other parties have dropped candidates for far less. “These are the people who want to govern the country and manage your tax dollars,” he said. “And this is the ethical standard they’ve set.” The panel questioned whether Liberal leader Mark Carney truly leads the party or whether entrenched backroom operatives from the Trudeau era remain in control. “We’re getting the same old Liberal Party,” said Koop. “Carney’s just the new face.” The conversation then shifted to provincial politics, where Premier Wab Kinew’s comments in the legislature about the ongoing PC leadership race drew attention. Kinew claimed that despite one candidate selling a large number of memberships, the “establishment” would ensure another wins. Koop dismissed Kinew’s remarks as political interference. “It’s none of his business,” he said. “That’s internal party politics.” Klein and Currier both criticized the state of modern political coverage, arguing that economic issues such as rising debt, the carbon tax, and the size of the federal bureaucracy are being ignored. Klein pointed out that over 110,000 federal bureaucrats have been added under the Trudeau government, and said few are talking about what that means for Canadians’ wallets. “The media is too focused on sideshows,” said Currier, citing recent questions from CBC reporters as examples of misplaced priorities. He criticized one instance where a journalist asked Pierre Poilievre if Trump could pose a military threat to Canada. “That’s not journalism. That’s a distraction,” he said. The panel also discussed the CBC’s funding and perceived bias. Koop noted that Carney’s support for increasing CBC funding could influence media coverage. “You can’t ignore that one leader wants to give them $150 million and the other wants to defund them,” he said. “Of course that affects how stories are told.” Klein clarified that while federal programs such as the Local Journalism Initiative have supported some outlets, they come with strings attached and are ending. “If they want to write us a cheque, fine. But we’re not going to say what they want us to say,” he said. The hosts closed by reflecting on the broader challenge of sustaining private media in a shifting digital economy and emphasized the importance of government spending its ad dollars locally rather than on U.S.-owned platforms. The panel plans to reconvene after the English-language leaders’ debate, which they believe could mark a turning point in the campaign.

32:31

Canada has bigger problems than Trump

In this episode of Inside Politics, we examined the lingering effects of Donald Trump's tariffs on Canada, a topic some say is being repurposed by politicians as a campaign tool rather than a pressing economic concern. While the damage could have been far worse, the issue has given the Liberal government—particularly potential leadership contender Mark Carney—a chance to showcase economic credentials. However, panellists questioned whether Carney’s promises, such as building 500,000 homes, were achievable or merely political theatre in an election climate already clouded by inflation, high debt, and bureaucratic trade barriers. The conversation also ventured west, where frustration continues to simmer in provinces like Alberta. The idea of Western separation, once fringe, is now increasingly part of mainstream political discourse. Experts warned that this sentiment stems not just from cultural grievances but from tangible economic disparities and a sense of neglect by Ottawa. As Canada heads toward a potential federal election, it’s clear that the debate over national unity, affordability, and trust in leadership will dominate the conversation—issues that go far deeper than a single tariff.

25:23

Inside Politics: Trump, Carney, and Canada’s Economic Crossroads

This week on Inside Politics, the panel dives deep into Donald Trump’s eyebrow-raising endorsement of Mark Carney and whether it crosses the line into foreign interference in Canadian elections. The episode also tackles pressing economic concerns—from Canada's shrinking roster of head offices to the urgent need for tax reform and a more competitive investment climate. With candid takes on media bias against Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and the growing influence of provincial leaders on federal outcomes, this episode delivers sharp insight and bold debate on the forces shaping Canada's political and economic future.

What People Say About Kevin Klein

Brian Sharfstein

"We served together as board members on the Winnipeg Police Board. While I did not always agree with his views and recommendations, I came to understand his motivation. During his campaign for Mayor, I spent time getting to know Kevin and gained respect for his integrity and honesty."

Jan Currier

“I am proud to have known Kevin Klein for many years.

He is intelligent, well read, personable, an incredibly hard worker and exudes common sense.

Most importantly, Kevin is upfront and honest."

Rob Carver

Kevin never treated me or anyone else on his team like employees. It felt like a family, and in fact, his family was there with us.

Dorothy Dobbie

"He is a man of utmost integrity. He is not afraid to speak truth to power! He does his homework and uses his considerable intellectual skills to look for answers and to solve problems."

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Stuart Murray

Kevin has demonstrated through his years of public service that he has the experience to listen, to work hard and I believe will be a strong voice for all the constituents of Kirkfield Park, I ask you to give Kevin the same honour you gave me, to represent Kirkfield Park in the Manitoba Legislature.

Ryan Woiden, a veteran frontline paramedic leader stated,

“Kevin has a better understanding of what paramedics need within the city of Winnipeg than any one else I’ve talked to. The province has done their diligence by looking at where the current monies go. Now let’s dot the i’s and cross the t’s and get on with it. Take my word for it. Kevin Klein’s perspective on how paramedics can take pressure off of the current healthcare system is right. These are the kind of ideas that paramedics can get behind. This group of paramedics that handle all our Community Paramedic work within Winnipeg. Community Paramedics have a scope that allows them to treat people in their homes instead of a trip to a hospital. They also can connect patients to other Health Care team members Instead of filling ER waiting rooms. I’m hoping some of the 2000 health care professionals to be hired will include Advanced Care Paramedics too.”

Klein said “I appreciate the kind words from Ryan. As a City Councillor for most of Kirkfield Park, I took the time to listen to people on the front lines. I wanted an understanding of what they were experiencing and discussing potential solutions. That is how I came to know Ryan and respect his position on and opinions on these matters. If I am fortunate to become the MLA for Kirkfield Park I will continue listening to those on the front lines, working together to find solutions and be brave enough to suggest the changes necessary.”

Larry McIntosh

“I have known Kevin Klein for over 17 years both on a professional basis, during my time as President & CEO of Peak of the Market, and on a personal basis as a very close friend. Kevin has the highest ethical standards, integrity, and honesty."

Gina Mogan

Kevin constantly spoke up for his constituents with honesty and integrity. Kevin is a person who gets the job done-Kevin informs and communicates clearly to his community about current events and holds many public forums/community meetings to do so. "

Dave Howard

I know Kevin to be an extraordinary leader, a dedicated community builder, a man of his word, and a genuine person. Without reservation, I can happily recommend as the new MLA for Kirkfield Park, Winnipeg.

View Kevin Klein's private sector career by clicking on the LinkedIn logo ->

Judy Saxby

"If I was to use three words to describe Kevin it would be honourable, dependable and committed. Honourable being the key one. Kevin does not suffer bullies or unethical people."

Hannon Bell

"I have always been impressed by Kevin Klein`s passion in life, career and people and for the issues that are important to him.

That was proven in his personal life and public life"

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KEVIN KLEIN

I had the honour of serving most of you as our City Councillor. We stood shoulder to shoulder to save the Westwood Library and the John Blumberg Public Golf Course. In my four years we did more park and green space improvements than anyone before me. We were able to fund major repairs to Allard arena and put in Pickle ball courts at the KW Community Centre.

I stood with people who were facing thousands in penalties from the City of Winnipeg on Augie to get a reprieve so residents could address the issues with their builder. We planted more trees along the perimeter near the Oaks and provided funding for a canoe launch sign that residents wanted.

I have proven through my role as a city councillor that I will stand up for my constituents and do what is in their best interest. That means if I am fortunate enough to earn your vote, if I have to fight Wab Kinew or Heather Stefanson, I am going to fight for our rights and values in Kirkfield Park.

Dear Kirkfield Park Resident,

I would like to take a moment to introduce myself, although many of you have already gotten to know me over the last four years as your city councillor.

It has been an honour to serve the people of Kirkfield Park. Together we have fought to save the Westwood Library, John Blumberg Golf Course, and had the gifted amber flashing lights in school zones accepted, with the first set installed on Bedson Street. A number of our green spaces, parks and paths have received more funding for improvements than in the last 10 years.

Additionally, we provided funding for repairs to Allard Arena, and added Pickle Ball courts to the KW Community Centre.

I am extremely proud that our work to bring Homes for Heroes to the the city which will help more than 150 homeless veterans living on the streets.

We brought many people together to find solutions and move the project forward. With your support, I challenged how your hard-earned money was spent and fought to increase accountability and transparency in government.

But there is more work to be done, such as, improving Health Care and specifically the services at the Grace Hospital. We also need to develop more senior housing in our community so you have the choice to stay in our community. Crime is a growing concern and as the former Chair of the Winnipeg Police Board I will push for solutions to address the issues that are affecting us. I will work to make certain the transit shelters are safe for everyone, and that we implement a focused program to crack down on the loud vehicles and drag racing occurring Sunday nights in our neighbourhoods.

I will fight for much needed funding to make improvements at both Allard Arena and the Kirkfield-Westwood community centre.

This is why I am asking for your vote to be your MLA representing Kirkfield Park. I have been a strong voice for our community during the last four years, and I am committed to being that same strong voice in the Legislature.

I have forged many friendships, listened to your concerns, and now with your support I am ready to fight for our community as your MLA.

Kindest Regards,

Kevin Klein

What Residents Say About Kevin Klein

We Fought Side by Side to Save the Westwood Library

Klein Releases Statement – Friday, November 25, 2022

On Thursday, November 24th, MLA Bob Lagasse shared his personal story and struggle with Mental Health issues because of the environment in the Manitoba Legislature. As a candidate in provincial politics for just a few weeks, Kevin Klein said, "My wife and I have both felt the emotional toll of this toxic style of politics displayed at the Legislature by NDP and Liberal elected officials. Our hearts go out to Mr. Lagasse."

Winnipeg City Hall did not tolerate such verbal abuse and false accusations in the Chamber. But in the Legislature, the NDP make consistent lies and false accusations because they are untouchable for what they say in the Chamber.

As opposed to showcasing what their NDP candidate has to offer in this election or addressing the fact that six NDP members have been charged and convicted of a criminal offence. The NDP chose to make personal attacks on Klein and his family as their platform in Kirkfield Park instead of the residents' concerns.

"I terminated my position at Nygard Biotech after four months because it was a toxic environment filled with verbal abuse, lies, and unprofessionalism. I stood up to him and will stand up to the antics of Wab Kinew and his NDP members." Klein said.

"My family and I lived in fear that if we spoke publicly about my experience working for Nygard Biotech, we would be subject to more abuse because we learned of others who tried and threats and lawsuits. We believed a person with that much money would go to any lengths to hurt someone. Unfortunately, the NDP's continuous barrage of false insinuations forces me to correct their lies and has heightened that fear in our family, causing undue stress."

"However, I feel so strongly about serving the people of Kirkfield Park that I have answered the many, many false insinuations made by Wab Kinew's NDP and shared the details of my very short employment," said Klein.

Klein often speaks to groups about the devastating impact of Domestic Violence by sharing the trauma of his mother's murder at the hands of her spouse. "The consistently false insinuations by Wab Kinew and his NDP members towards my integrity, and our good family name, are damaging the efforts that myself and many others are taking to stop domestic violence in our province."

"A true leader takes responsibility for their team members," said Klein, "Wab Kinew is not in control of his team, as is evident by the continued lies and false insinuations by his party members. How can you lead a province when you allow and reward this type of behaviour within your organization? I believe we are elected solely to represent the people in our constituencies and address their concerns, not to lodge unfounded attacks and false insinuations that cause personal trauma. What leader would allow this behaviour in a workplace? Not me, and I proved that by quickly leaving my job with Nygard Biotech," said Klein.

"After spending decades in the media, I know first-hand the game Wab Kinew and his NDP party members are playing. They cast aspersions disguised as questions they know are not accurate and post them to social media as a tool in the political arena.

"They are using lies and false insinuations as clickbait because they have nothing to offer to the people of Kirkfield Park," said Klein. "In this by-election, Wab Kinew does not want the people to know that at least six NDP members have been charged and convicted of criminal offences."

The NDP wants to hide the fact that Kevin Klein cleared the most intrusive background search in Manitoba to become the Chair of the Winnipeg Police Board. They don't want Manitobans to know about Klein's record serving most of Kirkfield Park as their City Councillor, where Klein saved the Westwood Library and financially supported improvements to Allard Arena and the St. James Historical Museum. He also put Pickle Ball courts in at KW Community Centre and fought to bring in Homes for Heroes - a place that helps provide shelter and care for the many homeless veterans in our city to Winnipeg.

"This is a difficult time for my family and me, but I will do whatever is necessary to protect them from this abuse," said Klein. "I will fight for my family and the residents of Kirkfield Park, whether it's against the NDP, Liberals, or my party, to bring the changes residents want in our province."