165,000 lost - Are Mark Carney’s flip-flops costing Canadians?

This week’s episode of Inside Politics with Kevin Klein dives deep into the state of Canada’s economy, energy policies, and growing concerns about crime. Kevin Klein is joined by Winnipeg Sun columnists Lawrence Pinsky, King’s Counsel, and University of Manitoba professor Royce Koop, for a wide-ranging discussion that challenges both political leadership and public safety priorities.

The panel begins with Mark Carney’s recent announcements, including the rollback of the federal electric vehicle mandate. While some viewed the move as a correction, Pinsky and Koop argue it raises more questions than answers. Carney, once celebrated as a steady hand during financial turbulence, is now facing criticism for flip-flopping on policies he once endorsed. As Pinsky noted, “He even waffles about waffling.”

The conversation zeroes in on whether Canadians can trust a government that dismantles policies it championed only months before. Carney’s talk of reducing one tax while quietly floating new levies, such as a proposed 17-cent gas tax, is described as a hidden burden on households and businesses. Klein highlights that despite Carney’s promises, Canada lost 165,000 jobs in the last three months—a figure the panel says reflects a troubling trend of companies leaving for friendlier markets.

From there, the discussion shifts to crime, where the panel argues that Canada’s bail system is failing citizens. Koop points out cases of violent repeat offenders, including children as young as 12, who are committing serious crimes while out on bail. “Youth crime is turning into a sleeper issue in this country,” Koop warns, stressing that Liberals have failed to amend the Criminal Code in a way that prioritizes community safety.

Klein presses the question of judicial accountability, asking why judges and Crown attorneys aren’t held responsible when offenders reoffend. Pinsky explains that Liberal amendments to the law now emphasize release over safety, a change he describes as both dangerous and avoidable.

The panel also highlights shocking recent crimes across Canada—an eight-year-old killed in his sleep, a three-year-old raped, and multiple cases of youth-involved violence—illustrating a disturbing pattern that goes beyond isolated incidents. “We’re not talking about thousands of young people,” Koop clarifies. “We’re talking about a relatively small group of repeat violent offenders. And yet, the system keeps releasing them.”

The episode closes with a pointed exchange on anti-Semitism in Canadian politics. The panel discusses Liberal MP Anthony Housefather’s failed attempt to get his caucus to sign a letter condemning rising hate crimes against Jewish Canadians. Only 20% of Liberal MPs supported the statement, a fact that left Pinsky calling it “one of the most shameful incidents in modern Liberal policy history.” Koop adds that the Liberal Party has abandoned its tradition as a “big tent” organization, narrowing its voice and alienating long-time members.

Klein doesn’t shy away from underscoring the stakes. From economic uncertainty to violent crime and a divided Parliament, he frames the conversation around a central question: is Canada’s leadership failing to provide stability when it’s needed most?

The episode is a mix of sharp analysis, fact-based criticism, and unflinching commentary. It offers viewers not just a recap of headlines but a deeper look at the forces shaping Canada’s future. For anyone concerned about the economy, crime, or the country’s direction under Carney, this discussion is essential viewing.