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Thursday, November 21, 2024
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Susan Riley

Susan Riley is a veteran political columnist and regular contributor to The Hill Times.

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
Donald Trump
Donald Trump
The good news is that Donald Trump, pictured, will be gone for good in four years. It will be up to the next U.S. government to repair the devastation he leaves, or not, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold
Donald Trump
The good news is that Donald Trump, pictured, will be gone for good in four years. It will be up to the next U.S. government to repair the devastation he leaves, or not, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
Donald Trump
Donald Trump
The good news is that Donald Trump, pictured, will be gone for good in four years. It will be up to the next U.S. government to repair the devastation he leaves, or not, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold

Trump, Trudeau and an ominous thunder

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 11, 2024
  • Donald Trump’s return will only make things worse. He's called climate change 'a scam,' EVs useless, and boasted that America 'has more liquid gold
Donald Trump
The good news is that Donald Trump, pictured, will be gone for good in four years. It will be up to the next U.S. government to repair the devastation he leaves, or not, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Meanwhile, on a planet far, far away

  • The enemy without—climate change, of course—is scratching at the window, unheard and ignored. In one way or another it’s coming for us all.
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 28, 2024
David Eby, left, Donald Trump, Justin Trudeau, Kamala Harris, David Rustad, Pierre Poilievre, and Danielle Smith. Politics is a thankless business, so perhaps we shouldn’t begrudge our leaders the fun they are having with issues like foreign interference, Trump’s admiration for Hitler, Rustad’s flirtations with crazy conspiracies, writes Riley. Photographs courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Flickr/British Columbia Government and The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade, illustration by Neena Singhal

Meanwhile, on a planet far, far away

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 28, 2024
  • The enemy without—climate change, of course—is scratching at the window, unheard and ignored. In one way or another it’s coming for us all.

Meanwhile, on a planet far, far away

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 28, 2024
  • The enemy without—climate change, of course—is scratching at the window, unheard and ignored. In one way or another it’s coming for us all.
David Eby, left, Donald Trump, Justin Trudeau, Kamala Harris, David Rustad, Pierre Poilievre, and Danielle Smith. Politics is a thankless business, so perhaps we shouldn’t begrudge our leaders the fun they are having with issues like foreign interference, Trump’s admiration for Hitler, Rustad’s flirtations with crazy conspiracies, writes Riley. Photographs courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Flickr/British Columbia Government and The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade, illustration by Neena Singhal

Can we talk about Poilievre? Whether his harshness is impulsive or strategic, it’s invidious

  • Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair, who faced Poilievre in the Commons for 10 years, recalled: 'He has only one pitch: a hardball to the
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 14, 2024
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, left, is the latest public figure to face Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s lacerating criticism, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Can we talk about Poilievre? Whether his harshness is impulsive or strategic, it’s invidious

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 14, 2024
  • Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair, who faced Poilievre in the Commons for 10 years, recalled: 'He has only one pitch: a hardball to the

Can we talk about Poilievre? Whether his harshness is impulsive or strategic, it’s invidious

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 14, 2024
  • Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair, who faced Poilievre in the Commons for 10 years, recalled: 'He has only one pitch: a hardball to the
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, left, is the latest public figure to face Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s lacerating criticism, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

A diverse menu, but nothing appeals

  • The ideal prime minister would be someone with no political baggage, no embarrassing internet history, no ideological quirks, with razor-sharp debating skills, a sense
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 30, 2024
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. After years on the fringes of every consequential election in this country, perhaps the moment has finally come for 'none-of-the-above,' writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

A diverse menu, but nothing appeals

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 30, 2024
  • The ideal prime minister would be someone with no political baggage, no embarrassing internet history, no ideological quirks, with razor-sharp debating skills, a sense

A diverse menu, but nothing appeals

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 30, 2024
  • The ideal prime minister would be someone with no political baggage, no embarrassing internet history, no ideological quirks, with razor-sharp debating skills, a sense
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. After years on the fringes of every consequential election in this country, perhaps the moment has finally come for 'none-of-the-above,' writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Trade policy: where ideological purity goes to die

  • Protectionism is having a moment in the face of the off-shoring of jobs, shrinking middle-class incomes, growing inequality, and soaring corporate profits.
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 26, 2024
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is expected to follow the United States in placing a punishing tariff on affordable Chinese EVs, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Trade policy: where ideological purity goes to die

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 26, 2024
  • Protectionism is having a moment in the face of the off-shoring of jobs, shrinking middle-class incomes, growing inequality, and soaring corporate profits.

Trade policy: where ideological purity goes to die

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 26, 2024
  • Protectionism is having a moment in the face of the off-shoring of jobs, shrinking middle-class incomes, growing inequality, and soaring corporate profits.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland
Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is expected to follow the United States in placing a punishing tariff on affordable Chinese EVs, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Will the Harris bounce jump the border? If only

  • Kamala Harris hasn’t just revived a fretful Democratic Party, in the opening weeks of her presidential campaign, in her own country. Her arrival has
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 12, 2024
Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris
U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris is like a breath of fresh air, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Will the Harris bounce jump the border? If only

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 12, 2024
  • Kamala Harris hasn’t just revived a fretful Democratic Party, in the opening weeks of her presidential campaign, in her own country. Her arrival has

Will the Harris bounce jump the border? If only

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 12, 2024
  • Kamala Harris hasn’t just revived a fretful Democratic Party, in the opening weeks of her presidential campaign, in her own country. Her arrival has
Kamala Harris
U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris is like a breath of fresh air, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Pumping more oil while the house burns down: how long will the fantasy last?

  • Fossil fuels still hugely contribute to provincial coffers and the federal treasury, but too so would green energy alternatives if given a chance to
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 29, 2024
Last summer's forest fires in Alberta. With a few exceptions, our politicians are divided into two camps: the stout defenders of the oil and gas industry regardless of damage to the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions cause; or, those rhetorically committed to addressing climate change, but, maybe next decade, or in 2050. Photograph courtesy of Cpl. Marc-André Leclerc, DND Canada

Pumping more oil while the house burns down: how long will the fantasy last?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 29, 2024
  • Fossil fuels still hugely contribute to provincial coffers and the federal treasury, but too so would green energy alternatives if given a chance to

Pumping more oil while the house burns down: how long will the fantasy last?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 29, 2024
  • Fossil fuels still hugely contribute to provincial coffers and the federal treasury, but too so would green energy alternatives if given a chance to
Last summer's forest fires in Alberta. With a few exceptions, our politicians are divided into two camps: the stout defenders of the oil and gas industry regardless of damage to the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions cause; or, those rhetorically committed to addressing climate change, but, maybe next decade, or in 2050. Photograph courtesy of Cpl. Marc-André Leclerc, DND Canada

Who will be left standing in an uncertain political moment?

  • What does any leader do when the public mood is 'out with the old, in with the unthinkable'? And 'old' isn’t always a matter
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 15, 2024
U.S. President Joe Biden, left, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a bilateral meeting in Ottawa on March 24, 2023. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Who will be left standing in an uncertain political moment?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 15, 2024
  • What does any leader do when the public mood is 'out with the old, in with the unthinkable'? And 'old' isn’t always a matter

Who will be left standing in an uncertain political moment?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 15, 2024
  • What does any leader do when the public mood is 'out with the old, in with the unthinkable'? And 'old' isn’t always a matter
U.S. President Joe Biden, left, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a bilateral meeting in Ottawa on March 24, 2023. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Happy Canada Day, everyone! Or is it?

  • This July 1 has some Canadians worried about the future and despondent about the present. 
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 1, 2024
Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, centre, pictured on the Hill on April 16, 2024, with some of his Conservative MPs. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Happy Canada Day, everyone! Or is it?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 1, 2024
  • This July 1 has some Canadians worried about the future and despondent about the present. 

Happy Canada Day, everyone! Or is it?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 1, 2024
  • This July 1 has some Canadians worried about the future and despondent about the present. 
Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, centre, pictured on the Hill on April 16, 2024, with some of his Conservative MPs. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Colonel Mustard with the knife in the Constituency? Maybe not

  • Elizabeth May's unexpected denouement left media, opposition parties, and the dysfunctional security apparatus looking like bit players in an Inspector Clouseau farce. The whole
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 17, 2024
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May told reporters last week that 'There is no list of MPs who have shown disloyalty to Canada,' but said one former unnamed MP was a willing tool of Beijing. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Colonel Mustard with the knife in the Constituency? Maybe not

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 17, 2024
  • Elizabeth May's unexpected denouement left media, opposition parties, and the dysfunctional security apparatus looking like bit players in an Inspector Clouseau farce. The whole

Colonel Mustard with the knife in the Constituency? Maybe not

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 17, 2024
  • Elizabeth May's unexpected denouement left media, opposition parties, and the dysfunctional security apparatus looking like bit players in an Inspector Clouseau farce. The whole
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May told reporters last week that 'There is no list of MPs who have shown disloyalty to Canada,' but said one former unnamed MP was a willing tool of Beijing. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Hey, Liberals! Why be shy? Isn’t it time to refute the disinformation?

  • Any attempts to dispute the cascade of falsehoods on X, many emanating from Pierre Poilievre, have been late, fitful and lost amid the background
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 3, 2024
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on the Hill on April 16, 2024. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Hey, Liberals! Why be shy? Isn’t it time to refute the disinformation?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 3, 2024
  • Any attempts to dispute the cascade of falsehoods on X, many emanating from Pierre Poilievre, have been late, fitful and lost amid the background

Hey, Liberals! Why be shy? Isn’t it time to refute the disinformation?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 3, 2024
  • Any attempts to dispute the cascade of falsehoods on X, many emanating from Pierre Poilievre, have been late, fitful and lost amid the background
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on the Hill on April 16, 2024. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Workin’ 9 to 5, that’s no way to make a livin’

  • Sending public servants into action to save a city from decades of bad urban planning is like dispatching the military to fill sandbags, or
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 13, 2024
Public Service Alliance of Canada president Chris Aylward during PSAC's picket line in Ottawa on April 19, 2023. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Workin’ 9 to 5, that’s no way to make a livin’

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 13, 2024
  • Sending public servants into action to save a city from decades of bad urban planning is like dispatching the military to fill sandbags, or

Workin’ 9 to 5, that’s no way to make a livin’

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 13, 2024
  • Sending public servants into action to save a city from decades of bad urban planning is like dispatching the military to fill sandbags, or
Public Service Alliance of Canada president Chris Aylward during PSAC's picket line in Ottawa on April 19, 2023. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

First they came for the carbon tax, are electric vehicles next?

  • Canadian politicians at all levels have a choice: continue supporting a still-lucrative but damaging fossil fuel industry, or summon the courage and foresight to
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 22, 2024
The slowing sale of EVs lends ballast to an indirect campaign by Big Oil, and its enablers, to undermine the transition away from gasoline, with torqued reports about the supposed unreliability of EVs in cold climates, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

First they came for the carbon tax, are electric vehicles next?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 22, 2024
  • Canadian politicians at all levels have a choice: continue supporting a still-lucrative but damaging fossil fuel industry, or summon the courage and foresight to

First they came for the carbon tax, are electric vehicles next?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 22, 2024
  • Canadian politicians at all levels have a choice: continue supporting a still-lucrative but damaging fossil fuel industry, or summon the courage and foresight to
The slowing sale of EVs lends ballast to an indirect campaign by Big Oil, and its enablers, to undermine the transition away from gasoline, with torqued reports about the supposed unreliability of EVs in cold climates, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

How to navigate post-fact politics: skeptically, but attentively

  • Today’s politics is entirely personality and performances. The bickering plays out like an annoying soundtrack, and the temptation to tune it out can be
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 8, 2024
The oilsands in Fort McMurray, Alta. The delivery of federal climate measures has been so bungled and half-hearted that the fact-free enemies of climate action—various premiers, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre—are winning the communications war, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Jake Wright

How to navigate post-fact politics: skeptically, but attentively

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 8, 2024
  • Today’s politics is entirely personality and performances. The bickering plays out like an annoying soundtrack, and the temptation to tune it out can be

How to navigate post-fact politics: skeptically, but attentively

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 8, 2024
  • Today’s politics is entirely personality and performances. The bickering plays out like an annoying soundtrack, and the temptation to tune it out can be
The oilsands in Fort McMurray, Alta. The delivery of federal climate measures has been so bungled and half-hearted that the fact-free enemies of climate action—various premiers, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre—are winning the communications war, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Jake Wright

There are signs of resistance to the right-wing juggernaut, if you look hard enough

  • The election of Wab Kinew, the first modern-day Indigenous premier of Manitoba, signals a welcome departure from the usual fed-prov scenario: premiers fighting Ottawa
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 25, 2024
Wab Kinew, pictured Oct. 3, 2023, after winning the Manitoba election. In his first months, the new NDP premier has cheerfully accepted $664-million in federal money for health care and also welcomed the recent federal mini-pharmacare plan, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of X/Twitter

There are signs of resistance to the right-wing juggernaut, if you look hard enough

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 25, 2024
  • The election of Wab Kinew, the first modern-day Indigenous premier of Manitoba, signals a welcome departure from the usual fed-prov scenario: premiers fighting Ottawa

There are signs of resistance to the right-wing juggernaut, if you look hard enough

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 25, 2024
  • The election of Wab Kinew, the first modern-day Indigenous premier of Manitoba, signals a welcome departure from the usual fed-prov scenario: premiers fighting Ottawa
Wab Kinew, pictured Oct. 3, 2023, after winning the Manitoba election. In his first months, the new NDP premier has cheerfully accepted $664-million in federal money for health care and also welcomed the recent federal mini-pharmacare plan, writes Susan Riley. Photograph courtesy of X/Twitter

‘Baby-steps’ pharmacare a test of our humanity and of our political leaders

  • If the proposals survive, this national pharmacare intro-package should fill open gaps for many insulin-dependent diabetics, especially those with Type 1 diabetes. But there
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 11, 2024
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. The final argument against what's otherwise a compassionate and affordable initiative from a reluctant federal government is that paying for medication for diabetics could be a slippery slope. But isn't that a slope we want to be on, asks Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

‘Baby-steps’ pharmacare a test of our humanity and of our political leaders

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 11, 2024
  • If the proposals survive, this national pharmacare intro-package should fill open gaps for many insulin-dependent diabetics, especially those with Type 1 diabetes. But there

‘Baby-steps’ pharmacare a test of our humanity and of our political leaders

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | March 11, 2024
  • If the proposals survive, this national pharmacare intro-package should fill open gaps for many insulin-dependent diabetics, especially those with Type 1 diabetes. But there
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. The final argument against what's otherwise a compassionate and affordable initiative from a reluctant federal government is that paying for medication for diabetics could be a slippery slope. But isn't that a slope we want to be on, asks Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

A rapidly changing climate and a glaring political disconnect

  • Climate change is on the agenda, but only sometimes, as one of several recurring issues. It might crop up when a town burns down,
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 26, 2024
Long-time NDP MP Charlie Angus introduced a private member's bill that would ban deceptive advertising from the oil and gas sector, but you'd think he had proposed legalizing child pornography, so violent and dismissive was reaction to his bill. It doesn’t stand a snowball’s chance in Ottawa of surviving, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

A rapidly changing climate and a glaring political disconnect

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 26, 2024
  • Climate change is on the agenda, but only sometimes, as one of several recurring issues. It might crop up when a town burns down,

A rapidly changing climate and a glaring political disconnect

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 26, 2024
  • Climate change is on the agenda, but only sometimes, as one of several recurring issues. It might crop up when a town burns down,
Long-time NDP MP Charlie Angus introduced a private member's bill that would ban deceptive advertising from the oil and gas sector, but you'd think he had proposed legalizing child pornography, so violent and dismissive was reaction to his bill. It doesn’t stand a snowball’s chance in Ottawa of surviving, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

For climate progress, maybe the rest of Canada should join Quebec

  • Plaudits to Quebec. It is more than carrying its weight when it comes to lowering national admissions and, unlike the federal government, gaining favourable
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 12, 2024
Quebec Premier François Legault in Ottawa on Feb. 7, 2023. The premier is leaping to the front of a parade led by middle-class Quebecers—but it is a parade that leads away from oil and gas, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

For climate progress, maybe the rest of Canada should join Quebec

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 12, 2024
  • Plaudits to Quebec. It is more than carrying its weight when it comes to lowering national admissions and, unlike the federal government, gaining favourable

For climate progress, maybe the rest of Canada should join Quebec

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 12, 2024
  • Plaudits to Quebec. It is more than carrying its weight when it comes to lowering national admissions and, unlike the federal government, gaining favourable
Quebec Premier François Legault in Ottawa on Feb. 7, 2023. The premier is leaping to the front of a parade led by middle-class Quebecers—but it is a parade that leads away from oil and gas, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Will Trudeau’s third act include a surprise ending?

  • Absent future careless misjudgments, bureaucratic boondoggles or mishandled global, domestic, or climate emergencies, Justin Trudeau could pull off a miracle recovery. Or at least
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 29, 2024
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. The Hill Times photographs by Sam Garcia and Andrew Meade

Will Trudeau’s third act include a surprise ending?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 29, 2024
  • Absent future careless misjudgments, bureaucratic boondoggles or mishandled global, domestic, or climate emergencies, Justin Trudeau could pull off a miracle recovery. Or at least

Will Trudeau’s third act include a surprise ending?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 29, 2024
  • Absent future careless misjudgments, bureaucratic boondoggles or mishandled global, domestic, or climate emergencies, Justin Trudeau could pull off a miracle recovery. Or at least
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. The Hill Times photographs by Sam Garcia and Andrew Meade

How the Liberal Party can save itself, maybe

  • It may be too late. The Liberals are never going to win over Alberta’s political class, many voters out West, many angry men. They
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 22, 2024
Sport Minister Carla Qualtrough, top left, Housing Minister Sean Fraser, Immigration Minister Marc Miller, Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan, above left, Treasury Board President Anita Anand, Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne tend to get things done, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

How the Liberal Party can save itself, maybe

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 22, 2024
  • It may be too late. The Liberals are never going to win over Alberta’s political class, many voters out West, many angry men. They

How the Liberal Party can save itself, maybe

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 22, 2024
  • It may be too late. The Liberals are never going to win over Alberta’s political class, many voters out West, many angry men. They
Sport Minister Carla Qualtrough, top left, Housing Minister Sean Fraser, Immigration Minister Marc Miller, Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan, above left, Treasury Board President Anita Anand, Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne tend to get things done, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

For something completely different: a little good news

  • Despite the threat of a reversal of our halting progress on climate, reconciliation and social equity under a future Conservative government, continuing worry about
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 8, 2024
Housing minister Sean Fraser offered an eye-catching proposal just before Christmas: an updated version of an 80-year old federal housing program that offered small, simple, nearly-identical housing units to returning Second World War veterans, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Photograph by Andrew Meade

For something completely different: a little good news

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 8, 2024
  • Despite the threat of a reversal of our halting progress on climate, reconciliation and social equity under a future Conservative government, continuing worry about

For something completely different: a little good news

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 8, 2024
  • Despite the threat of a reversal of our halting progress on climate, reconciliation and social equity under a future Conservative government, continuing worry about
Housing minister Sean Fraser offered an eye-catching proposal just before Christmas: an updated version of an 80-year old federal housing program that offered small, simple, nearly-identical housing units to returning Second World War veterans, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Photograph by Andrew Meade

Oil and gas industry’s fancy foot-dragging wins the day, again

  • While the Conservative leader is busy trying to 'ruin' Trudeau’s holiday with procedural hi-jinks aimed at fighting the carbon tax, oil executives and their
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 11, 2023
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault, left, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, and Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson. The Trudeau government has abased itself to the fossil fuel industry leaders: buying a $30-billion money-losing pipeline, sending millions of dollar to the province to clean up abandoned wells, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Oil and gas industry’s fancy foot-dragging wins the day, again

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 11, 2023
  • While the Conservative leader is busy trying to 'ruin' Trudeau’s holiday with procedural hi-jinks aimed at fighting the carbon tax, oil executives and their

Oil and gas industry’s fancy foot-dragging wins the day, again

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 11, 2023
  • While the Conservative leader is busy trying to 'ruin' Trudeau’s holiday with procedural hi-jinks aimed at fighting the carbon tax, oil executives and their
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault, left, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, and Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson. The Trudeau government has abased itself to the fossil fuel industry leaders: buying a $30-billion money-losing pipeline, sending millions of dollar to the province to clean up abandoned wells, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

It’s always the economy, and we’re not stupid

  • While politicians hurl accusations and recycle old ideological claims, their lives are mostly untouched by current financial pressures; they, along with grocery store executives,
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 27, 2023
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, pictured on the Hill. Unfortunately for Poilievre, last week’s fall economic update was preceded by cheering news on inflation; the official rate has dropped from 3.8 per cent in September to 3.1 per cent last month and could be on its way further down, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

It’s always the economy, and we’re not stupid

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 27, 2023
  • While politicians hurl accusations and recycle old ideological claims, their lives are mostly untouched by current financial pressures; they, along with grocery store executives,

It’s always the economy, and we’re not stupid

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 27, 2023
  • While politicians hurl accusations and recycle old ideological claims, their lives are mostly untouched by current financial pressures; they, along with grocery store executives,
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, pictured on the Hill. Unfortunately for Poilievre, last week’s fall economic update was preceded by cheering news on inflation; the official rate has dropped from 3.8 per cent in September to 3.1 per cent last month and could be on its way further down, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Canada’s climate policy, not just the carbon tax, is on a knife’s edge

  • The Liberal government seemed content to let the carbon tax do all the work until, magically, everyone buys electric vehicles, installs heat pumps, and
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 13, 2023
The saddest thing is that the Liberals under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, are probably as good as it gets on climate since Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre doesn’t take climate seriously, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Canada’s climate policy, not just the carbon tax, is on a knife’s edge

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 13, 2023
  • The Liberal government seemed content to let the carbon tax do all the work until, magically, everyone buys electric vehicles, installs heat pumps, and

Canada’s climate policy, not just the carbon tax, is on a knife’s edge

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 13, 2023
  • The Liberal government seemed content to let the carbon tax do all the work until, magically, everyone buys electric vehicles, installs heat pumps, and
The saddest thing is that the Liberals under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, are probably as good as it gets on climate since Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre doesn’t take climate seriously, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

No country for old men

  • The health of any institution requires regular renewal, encouraging newcomers while bidding a respectful farewell to those who have served long and often well.
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 30, 2023
U.S. President Joe Biden, age 80, left, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, age 51. Canada is blessed in the health, energy and work ethic of our political leaders, especially when compared to our southern neighbours, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

No country for old men

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 30, 2023
  • The health of any institution requires regular renewal, encouraging newcomers while bidding a respectful farewell to those who have served long and often well.

No country for old men

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 30, 2023
  • The health of any institution requires regular renewal, encouraging newcomers while bidding a respectful farewell to those who have served long and often well.
U.S. President Joe Biden, age 80, left, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, age 51. Canada is blessed in the health, energy and work ethic of our political leaders, especially when compared to our southern neighbours, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

All our puny sorrows: plea for perspective in an anguished world

  • While Israelis and Palestinians alike reckon with the aftermath of the barbarism unleashed by Hamas last week, one Canadian leader has invoked the notwithstanding
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 16, 2023
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has invoked the notwithstanding clause to allow him to override the rights of young people questioning their gender identity, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

All our puny sorrows: plea for perspective in an anguished world

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 16, 2023
  • While Israelis and Palestinians alike reckon with the aftermath of the barbarism unleashed by Hamas last week, one Canadian leader has invoked the notwithstanding

All our puny sorrows: plea for perspective in an anguished world

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 16, 2023
  • While Israelis and Palestinians alike reckon with the aftermath of the barbarism unleashed by Hamas last week, one Canadian leader has invoked the notwithstanding
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has invoked the notwithstanding clause to allow him to override the rights of young people questioning their gender identity, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Just what we need: another national unity crisis

  • If Alberta premier Danielle Smith manifests such disregard for the rest of the country, she shouldn't be surprised if the rest of Canada reacts
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 2, 2023
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith wants to exit the Canada Pension Plan and take more than half its assets with her. But there's the little matter of the greenhouse gas emissions emanating from Alberta's primary industry, and the costly damage they continue to cause every province and territory in the country, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Just what we need: another national unity crisis

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 2, 2023
  • If Alberta premier Danielle Smith manifests such disregard for the rest of the country, she shouldn't be surprised if the rest of Canada reacts

Just what we need: another national unity crisis

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 2, 2023
  • If Alberta premier Danielle Smith manifests such disregard for the rest of the country, she shouldn't be surprised if the rest of Canada reacts
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith wants to exit the Canada Pension Plan and take more than half its assets with her. But there's the little matter of the greenhouse gas emissions emanating from Alberta's primary industry, and the costly damage they continue to cause every province and territory in the country, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade
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No more Mr. Nice Guy

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—If Canada doesn’t emerge from this pandemic with much-improved long-term care for seniors—beginning with concrete and well-funded steps in that direction come spring—then
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 8, 2021
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured Jan. 29, 2021, holding a media briefing outside the Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. Even those who find Justin Trudeau annoying, mannered, insufficiently serious, or arrogant, also know this: we are one people when it comes to how we treat our elders. We have already lost more people in long-term care than any other wealthy nation. And we don’t want to carry the national shame of more unnecessary deaths. Do what you have to, prime minister, and let them howl, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

No more Mr. Nice Guy

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 8, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—If Canada doesn’t emerge from this pandemic with much-improved long-term care for seniors—beginning with concrete and well-funded steps in that direction come spring—then

No more Mr. Nice Guy

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | February 8, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—If Canada doesn’t emerge from this pandemic with much-improved long-term care for seniors—beginning with concrete and well-funded steps in that direction come spring—then
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured Jan. 29, 2021, holding a media briefing outside the Rideau Cottage in Ottawa. Even those who find Justin Trudeau annoying, mannered, insufficiently serious, or arrogant, also know this: we are one people when it comes to how we treat our elders. We have already lost more people in long-term care than any other wealthy nation. And we don’t want to carry the national shame of more unnecessary deaths. Do what you have to, prime minister, and let them howl, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

The two faces of Canada’s approach to climate change increasingly confusing

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—You can excuse our American friends—any of our friends—for wondering where Canada stands on climate change and, more broadly, on the future of
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 25, 2021
On one hand, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, pictured Sept. 18, 2020, is threatening to sue the new Biden administration for its entirely unsurprising decision to withdraw support for the expansion of the Keystone XL pipeline, which was to transport more of Alberta’s heavy oil to refineries on the U.S. Gulf Coast. He is demanding the federal government retaliate with sanctions if Justin Trudeau cannot change the president’s mind—sanctions as robust as those employed against Donald Trump’s unfair U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

The two faces of Canada’s approach to climate change increasingly confusing

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 25, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—You can excuse our American friends—any of our friends—for wondering where Canada stands on climate change and, more broadly, on the future of

The two faces of Canada’s approach to climate change increasingly confusing

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 25, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—You can excuse our American friends—any of our friends—for wondering where Canada stands on climate change and, more broadly, on the future of
On one hand, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, pictured Sept. 18, 2020, is threatening to sue the new Biden administration for its entirely unsurprising decision to withdraw support for the expansion of the Keystone XL pipeline, which was to transport more of Alberta’s heavy oil to refineries on the U.S. Gulf Coast. He is demanding the federal government retaliate with sanctions if Justin Trudeau cannot change the president’s mind—sanctions as robust as those employed against Donald Trump’s unfair U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

COVID is exacerbating regional, provincial, and inter-personal tensions 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The most insidious thing about this pandemic is the way it turns strangers into threats and everyone into a stranger. This is most
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 11, 2021
While some politicians exacerbate these divisions—Ontario Premier Doug Ford warning of 'hordes' of Quebecers, flooding into Ottawa; Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, and Quebec’s François Legault, criticizing the federal government for slow vaccine roll-outs—there are rare, and welcome, voices of compassion and unity, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

COVID is exacerbating regional, provincial, and inter-personal tensions 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 11, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The most insidious thing about this pandemic is the way it turns strangers into threats and everyone into a stranger. This is most

COVID is exacerbating regional, provincial, and inter-personal tensions 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | January 11, 2021
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The most insidious thing about this pandemic is the way it turns strangers into threats and everyone into a stranger. This is most
While some politicians exacerbate these divisions—Ontario Premier Doug Ford warning of 'hordes' of Quebecers, flooding into Ottawa; Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, and Quebec’s François Legault, criticizing the federal government for slow vaccine roll-outs—there are rare, and welcome, voices of compassion and unity, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Whoville and the Grinch: a cautionary tale for opposition politicians 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It is time someone who isn’t a Liberal said it: the Trudeau government has done a pretty good job managing the pandemic. Not
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 14, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at a press conference on Dec. 7, 2020, in the Sir John A. Macdonald Building on the Hill. It's time someone who isn’t a Liberal said it: the Trudeau government has done a pretty good job managing the pandemic. Not perfect, never perfect. But hardly the train wreck of corruption and incompetence depicted by opposition critics, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Whoville and the Grinch: a cautionary tale for opposition politicians 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 14, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It is time someone who isn’t a Liberal said it: the Trudeau government has done a pretty good job managing the pandemic. Not

Whoville and the Grinch: a cautionary tale for opposition politicians 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | December 14, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It is time someone who isn’t a Liberal said it: the Trudeau government has done a pretty good job managing the pandemic. Not
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at a press conference on Dec. 7, 2020, in the Sir John A. Macdonald Building on the Hill. It's time someone who isn’t a Liberal said it: the Trudeau government has done a pretty good job managing the pandemic. Not perfect, never perfect. But hardly the train wreck of corruption and incompetence depicted by opposition critics, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Eight months into the pandemic, we’re no longer pulling together

  • As the prospect of a dim and diminished Christmas approaches, social cohesion is fracturing. Like hostages trapped in the same room for too many
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 26, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government says the vaccines should start arriving in January, although shots will likely not be widely available for months after that. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Eight months into the pandemic, we’re no longer pulling together

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 26, 2020
  • As the prospect of a dim and diminished Christmas approaches, social cohesion is fracturing. Like hostages trapped in the same room for too many

Eight months into the pandemic, we’re no longer pulling together

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 26, 2020
  • As the prospect of a dim and diminished Christmas approaches, social cohesion is fracturing. Like hostages trapped in the same room for too many
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government says the vaccines should start arriving in January, although shots will likely not be widely available for months after that. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

When does ‘bold’ start? 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—So far Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s “bold,” green, post-pandemic recovery plan appears to lack boldness. And detail. And deadlines. In fact, it is
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 16, 2020
So far Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s 'bold,' green, post-pandemic recovery plan appears to lack boldness. And detail. And deadlines, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

When does ‘bold’ start? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 16, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—So far Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s “bold,” green, post-pandemic recovery plan appears to lack boldness. And detail. And deadlines. In fact, it is

When does ‘bold’ start? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 16, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—So far Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s “bold,” green, post-pandemic recovery plan appears to lack boldness. And detail. And deadlines. In fact, it is
So far Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s 'bold,' green, post-pandemic recovery plan appears to lack boldness. And detail. And deadlines, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Is the opposition deliberately trying to alienate voters? 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Is there anyone less attractive than that guy, hands in his pockets, watching a building burn to the ground while shouting non-stop criticisms
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 2, 2020
Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, Conservative MPs Michelle Rempel Garner and Pierre Poilievre. Is there anyone less attractive than that guy, hands in his pockets, watching a building burn to the ground while shouting non-stop criticisms of the sweating fire-fighters? 'Wrong hose! Should have gone in the back door! Why didn’t you buy taller ladders?' The federal Conservatives are turning into that guy, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Is the opposition deliberately trying to alienate voters? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 2, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Is there anyone less attractive than that guy, hands in his pockets, watching a building burn to the ground while shouting non-stop criticisms

Is the opposition deliberately trying to alienate voters? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | November 2, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Is there anyone less attractive than that guy, hands in his pockets, watching a building burn to the ground while shouting non-stop criticisms
Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, Conservative MPs Michelle Rempel Garner and Pierre Poilievre. Is there anyone less attractive than that guy, hands in his pockets, watching a building burn to the ground while shouting non-stop criticisms of the sweating fire-fighters? 'Wrong hose! Should have gone in the back door! Why didn’t you buy taller ladders?' The federal Conservatives are turning into that guy, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Make the rich pay, one of these days 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—A wealth tax is one of those simple and beguiling ideas that resurfaces in times of economic turmoil, only to be forgotten as
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 19, 2020
A version of a wealth tax, which already exists in a handful of European countries, has made its way into Canadian political discourse—advocated by New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh and vaguely approved by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, mostly recently in the Throne Speech. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Make the rich pay, one of these days 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 19, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—A wealth tax is one of those simple and beguiling ideas that resurfaces in times of economic turmoil, only to be forgotten as

Make the rich pay, one of these days 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 19, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—A wealth tax is one of those simple and beguiling ideas that resurfaces in times of economic turmoil, only to be forgotten as
A version of a wealth tax, which already exists in a handful of European countries, has made its way into Canadian political discourse—advocated by New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh and vaguely approved by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, mostly recently in the Throne Speech. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Save the COVID blame game for happier times

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Who is to blame for the ineptitude, delay, and confusion that has marked Canada’s response to COVID-19? The provinces (insert premier’s name here)
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 5, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured on Oct. 1, 2020, walks from the West block with his security detail. Yes, the federal government made mistakes, but it is probably more useful right now for opposition parties, bereaved families, and frustrated parents to focus urgently on correcting past mistakes rather than marinating in resentment or hurling vitriol, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Save the COVID blame game for happier times

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 5, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Who is to blame for the ineptitude, delay, and confusion that has marked Canada’s response to COVID-19? The provinces (insert premier’s name here)

Save the COVID blame game for happier times

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | October 5, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Who is to blame for the ineptitude, delay, and confusion that has marked Canada’s response to COVID-19? The provinces (insert premier’s name here)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured on Oct. 1, 2020, walks from the West block with his security detail. Yes, the federal government made mistakes, but it is probably more useful right now for opposition parties, bereaved families, and frustrated parents to focus urgently on correcting past mistakes rather than marinating in resentment or hurling vitriol, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Will there ever be a right time for concerted action on climate? 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—“If not now, when? If not us, who?” That was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, not too long ago, defending his government’s decision to proceed
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 21, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at his cabinet retreat on Sept. 14, 2020, not too long ago, defended his government’s decision to proceed with a national carbon tax. There have been studies, targets, timelines, promises and threats. There has been talk of a generational shift, of the opportunity presented by the pandemic and ensuing economic chaos for a complete reset, for the dawning of a New Green Age. But the time never seems quite right for actual, transformative action, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Will there ever be a right time for concerted action on climate? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 21, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—“If not now, when? If not us, who?” That was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, not too long ago, defending his government’s decision to proceed

Will there ever be a right time for concerted action on climate? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 21, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—“If not now, when? If not us, who?” That was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, not too long ago, defending his government’s decision to proceed
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at his cabinet retreat on Sept. 14, 2020, not too long ago, defended his government’s decision to proceed with a national carbon tax. There have been studies, targets, timelines, promises and threats. There has been talk of a generational shift, of the opportunity presented by the pandemic and ensuing economic chaos for a complete reset, for the dawning of a New Green Age. But the time never seems quite right for actual, transformative action, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

A new leader, a new script and a chance for progressive government

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Some ardent Liberals must have felt a frisson of concern as they watched Erin O’Toole’s debut as the new Conservative party leader last
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 7, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh can help their parties and the country if they can find common ground on issues like childcare, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

A new leader, a new script and a chance for progressive government

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 7, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Some ardent Liberals must have felt a frisson of concern as they watched Erin O’Toole’s debut as the new Conservative party leader last

A new leader, a new script and a chance for progressive government

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | September 7, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Some ardent Liberals must have felt a frisson of concern as they watched Erin O’Toole’s debut as the new Conservative party leader last
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh can help their parties and the country if they can find common ground on issues like childcare, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Bill Morneau and the remorseless nature of politics

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It no doubt violates the Canadian Manual for Journalistic Standards, but it is hard not to feel sorry for former finance minister Bill
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 24, 2020
Bill Morneau downplayed any conflict with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau even as he announced his resignation, following a campaign of leaks from Liberal insiders that undermined his career. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Bill Morneau and the remorseless nature of politics

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 24, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It no doubt violates the Canadian Manual for Journalistic Standards, but it is hard not to feel sorry for former finance minister Bill

Bill Morneau and the remorseless nature of politics

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 24, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It no doubt violates the Canadian Manual for Journalistic Standards, but it is hard not to feel sorry for former finance minister Bill
Bill Morneau downplayed any conflict with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau even as he announced his resignation, following a campaign of leaks from Liberal insiders that undermined his career. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

What else is happening while we worry about COVID? 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The pandemic, the WE controversy, and ongoing problems with the RCMP have given higher-than-usual profiles to a number of Justin Trudeau’s cabinet ministers—notably
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 10, 2020
Environment and Climate Change Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, pictured on Jan. 28, 2020, on the Hill arriving for the Liberal cabinet meeting in Ottawa. As worried Canadians focus on immediate problems—staying healthy, surviving financially, whether to send the kids back to school this fall—the environment disappeared from the front pages. So did the minister, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

What else is happening while we worry about COVID? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 10, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The pandemic, the WE controversy, and ongoing problems with the RCMP have given higher-than-usual profiles to a number of Justin Trudeau’s cabinet ministers—notably

What else is happening while we worry about COVID? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | August 10, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—The pandemic, the WE controversy, and ongoing problems with the RCMP have given higher-than-usual profiles to a number of Justin Trudeau’s cabinet ministers—notably
Environment and Climate Change Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, pictured on Jan. 28, 2020, on the Hill arriving for the Liberal cabinet meeting in Ottawa. As worried Canadians focus on immediate problems—staying healthy, surviving financially, whether to send the kids back to school this fall—the environment disappeared from the front pages. So did the minister, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Time for new thinking about old parties 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Why do so many people—media, pundits, pollsters, and casual followers of politics—assume that Conservatives are the default governing party when the Liberals wobble?
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 27, 2020
Outgoing Conservative Party Leader Andrew Scheer, pictured on May 27, 2017, shortly after winning the party's leadership in Toronto. Instead of offering a refurbished Conservatism for the times—more inclusive, honest and closer to mainstream social values—Mr. Scheer functions like a sniper, constantly on the lookout for Liberal misdeeds, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times file photograph by Jake Wright

Time for new thinking about old parties 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 27, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Why do so many people—media, pundits, pollsters, and casual followers of politics—assume that Conservatives are the default governing party when the Liberals wobble?

Time for new thinking about old parties 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | July 27, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—Why do so many people—media, pundits, pollsters, and casual followers of politics—assume that Conservatives are the default governing party when the Liberals wobble?
Outgoing Conservative Party Leader Andrew Scheer, pictured on May 27, 2017, shortly after winning the party's leadership in Toronto. Instead of offering a refurbished Conservatism for the times—more inclusive, honest and closer to mainstream social values—Mr. Scheer functions like a sniper, constantly on the lookout for Liberal misdeeds, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times file photograph by Jake Wright

The daily handouts have slowed and the reckoning has begun 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—While the pandemic is far from over, its impact is declining in many parts of Canada and there are increasing stirrings of concern
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 29, 2020
Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau, pictured. While the pandemic is far from over, its impact is declining in many parts of Canada and there are increasing stirrings of concern about the next challenge: how do we get ourselves out of this economic hole, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

The daily handouts have slowed and the reckoning has begun 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 29, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—While the pandemic is far from over, its impact is declining in many parts of Canada and there are increasing stirrings of concern

The daily handouts have slowed and the reckoning has begun 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 29, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—While the pandemic is far from over, its impact is declining in many parts of Canada and there are increasing stirrings of concern
Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau, pictured. While the pandemic is far from over, its impact is declining in many parts of Canada and there are increasing stirrings of concern about the next challenge: how do we get ourselves out of this economic hole, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Climate is still changing while Canada courts the UN

  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—The headline was so shocking, it looked at first like fake news. Temperatures reached 30 C inside the Arctic Circle last week, in
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 15, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at Régimbal Awards and Promotions in Ottawa to highlight how businesses are benefitting from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy on June 11, 2020, has led a years-long campaign for Canada to win a seat on the United Nations Security Council. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Climate is still changing while Canada courts the UN

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 15, 2020
  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—The headline was so shocking, it looked at first like fake news. Temperatures reached 30 C inside the Arctic Circle last week, in

Climate is still changing while Canada courts the UN

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 15, 2020
  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—The headline was so shocking, it looked at first like fake news. Temperatures reached 30 C inside the Arctic Circle last week, in
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured at Régimbal Awards and Promotions in Ottawa to highlight how businesses are benefitting from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy on June 11, 2020, has led a years-long campaign for Canada to win a seat on the United Nations Security Council. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

When it comes to fixing long-term care, tears are not enough 

  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—Let’s assume, barring evidence to the contrary, that Justin Trudeau, Doug Ford, and François Legault are genuinely shaken by the horror stories emerging
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 1, 2020
Let’s assume, barring evidence to the contrary, that Justin Trudeau, Doug Ford, and François Legault are genuinely shaken by the horror stories emerging from too many long-term care homes in this country. The Hill Times file photographs by Andrew Meade

When it comes to fixing long-term care, tears are not enough 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 1, 2020
  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—Let’s assume, barring evidence to the contrary, that Justin Trudeau, Doug Ford, and François Legault are genuinely shaken by the horror stories emerging

When it comes to fixing long-term care, tears are not enough 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | June 1, 2020
  • CHEALSEA, QUE.—Let’s assume, barring evidence to the contrary, that Justin Trudeau, Doug Ford, and François Legault are genuinely shaken by the horror stories emerging
Let’s assume, barring evidence to the contrary, that Justin Trudeau, Doug Ford, and François Legault are genuinely shaken by the horror stories emerging from too many long-term care homes in this country. The Hill Times file photographs by Andrew Meade

We’re crazy with confinement, but does that mean we’re ready?

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—When it comes to when and how fast we should resume quasi-normal life as pandemic infection rates slow, the answer probably depends on
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 4, 2020
Quebec Premier François Legault, pictured in this file photograph, announced last week that elementary schools and child-care centres outside of Montreal would reopen May 11, with the Montreal-area following suit on May 19. Photograph courtesy of Instagram

We’re crazy with confinement, but does that mean we’re ready?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 4, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—When it comes to when and how fast we should resume quasi-normal life as pandemic infection rates slow, the answer probably depends on

We’re crazy with confinement, but does that mean we’re ready?

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | May 4, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—When it comes to when and how fast we should resume quasi-normal life as pandemic infection rates slow, the answer probably depends on
Quebec Premier François Legault, pictured in this file photograph, announced last week that elementary schools and child-care centres outside of Montreal would reopen May 11, with the Montreal-area following suit on May 19. Photograph courtesy of Instagram

Parliamentary accountability or pandemic pandemonium? 

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—In theory, a healthy democracy needs a vigorous opposition. In reality, there’s Question Period. That may be why Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer appears
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 20, 2020
MPs, pictured in the House for an emergency meeting on April 11, 2020, to pass the government's $73-billion wage subsidy bill. Screen capture courtesy of CPAC

Parliamentary accountability or pandemic pandemonium? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 20, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—In theory, a healthy democracy needs a vigorous opposition. In reality, there’s Question Period. That may be why Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer appears

Parliamentary accountability or pandemic pandemonium? 

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 20, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—In theory, a healthy democracy needs a vigorous opposition. In reality, there’s Question Period. That may be why Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer appears
MPs, pictured in the House for an emergency meeting on April 11, 2020, to pass the government's $73-billion wage subsidy bill. Screen capture courtesy of CPAC

Some cabinet stars emerge in pandemic

  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It has been decades since the era of strong cabinet ministers—men (always men) with a profile as prominent as the prime minister’s and
Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 6, 2020
Minister of Health Patty Hajdu gives an update on the government's measures to help Canadians with the effects of COVID-19 pandemic in Ottawa on Mar. 20, 2020. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Some cabinet stars emerge in pandemic

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 6, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It has been decades since the era of strong cabinet ministers—men (always men) with a profile as prominent as the prime minister’s and

Some cabinet stars emerge in pandemic

Opinion | BY SUSAN RILEY | April 6, 2020
  • CHELSEA, QUE.—It has been decades since the era of strong cabinet ministers—men (always men) with a profile as prominent as the prime minister’s and
Minister of Health Patty Hajdu gives an update on the government's measures to help Canadians with the effects of COVID-19 pandemic in Ottawa on Mar. 20, 2020. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

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