Welcome back to GovGurus with host J. Richard Jones — joined by Lori Turnbull, Editor-in-Chief of Canadian Government Executive Magazine, for a fast-moving conversation on two Ottawa storylines reshaping the political landscape.
First up: Janice Charette — former Clerk of the Privy Council (twice) and former High Commissioner to the U.K. — is now tapped to serve as Canada’s chief negotiator in the high-stakes Canada–U.S. “CUSMA” negotiations. Lori breaks down what her appointment signals about the government’s approach, how she may work alongside Mark Wiseman (recently appointed Canada’s ambassador to the U.S.), and why this isn’t a “typical” trade negotiation moment.
Then the conversation turns to the latest political shockwaves: floor-crossing drama, internal party tensions, and the strategic implications of a new special advisory role on economic and security partnerships. Lori also looks ahead to what might happen over the next 30/60/90 days, including key by-elections, the path to 172 seats, and what a shift in the numbers could mean for early-election speculation.
If you’re tracking Canada–U.S. dynamics, Ottawa power plays, and the evolving parliamentary math — this one’s for you.
