Guest: Queen’s Park Bureau Chief Robert Benzie

Ontario just dropped its biggest budget ever — $232.5 billion — and looming over every dollar of it is the shadow of Donald Trump, his tariffs, and an uncertain economic future. This year’s budget also includes a new $5 billion “Protect Ontario” fund to shield businesses and jobs from the escalating trade war with the U.S. But behind the big numbers lie bigger questions like a $14.6 billion deficit, no major new housing initiatives despite a worsening crisis, and a controversial plan to rip out downtown bike lanes in favour of cars. The Star’s Queen’s Park Bureau Chief Robert Benzie breaks it all down and what this budget means for Ontarians.

Produced by Saba Eitizaz and Paulo Marques

Guest: Star National Columnist Susan Delacourt

Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled his first cabinet. On Tuesday, ministers were sworn in at Rideau Hall to a trimmed down and reorganized cabinet, with 28 full members and 10 second-tier members, known as secretaries of state. Carney’s campaign promise was bold change and a post-Trudeau pivot.

Now that the lineup is out, the question is how much of it signals real transformation? Is this a true reset or does it look like a strategic rebrand? The Star’s veteran political columnist Susan Delacourt provides insights.

Audio source: CTV News

Produced by Saba Eitizaz and Paulo Marques

Guest: Ottawa Bureau Chief Tonda MacCharles

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Washington this week was his first face-to-face meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump since being elected to office. A lot hangs in the balance, at a time when Canada’s relationship with its largest trading partner is being put to the test.

While Carney made headlines with some bold statements and viral moments with Trump, the real story was the critical test of the Liberals political mandate and Canada’s position on trade, tariffs and sovereignty in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Toronto Star Ottawa bureau chief Tonda MacCharles was in the room where the diplomatic tight-rope was being walked and, she gives an inside look at what really happened.

Produced by Saba Eitizaz, Paulo Marques and Lance McMillan