Political Pulse with Ryan Painter

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Ryan Hemsley of Victoria stirred up controversy in a Free Press article published at the end of December 2024, saying he eagerly awaited Canada's becoming the 51st state.

We sat down to explore why he wants this, how he thinks it could happen, why he would instantly become an American if he could snap his fingers, and why this shows how much he loves Canada.

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Political Pulse with Ryan Painter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this weekly roundup, we discuss allegations of election irregularities in BC, former BC Premier Christy Clark’s interview on CBC about her previous flirtation with the Conservative Party, Danielle Smith’s visit to Mar-a-Lago to meet with President Trump, and an uplifting story about a former homeless MPP moving into a shelter with the help of his friends and former adversaries.

For reference:

Christy Clark says she ‘misspoke,’ acknowledges support for Charest

BC Conservatives call for a review of the 2024 election, claiming voting ‘irregularities’

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith visits Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago

Homeless former MPP moving from shelter with help of friends and former adversaries

On the inaugural X livestream of the Political Pulse Podcast, Ryan is joined by National Post Columnist Rahim Mohamed to discuss Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s appearance on CNN with Jake Tapper, Canadian identity, the federal Liberal leadership race, and the first Netflix production of WWE Raw and the match between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan.

Political Pulse with Ryan Painter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

On the inaugural episode of the 2025 Political Pulse podcast, host Ryan Painter discusses pressing issues affecting British Columbia, including rampant crime and government accountability. He highlights Marco Mendicino's recent departure from federal politics and the struggles of the Liberal Party under Trudeau's leadership. The episode also touches on the ongoing controversy surrounding Donald Trump and his influence on Canadian politics, emphasizing the need for safety and accountability in governance.

April Hutchinson Website

Marco Mendicino letter

In this episode of the Political Pulse Podcast, host Ryan Painter interviews Greg Old, the founder of BlanketBC, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing warmth and support to those in need. Greg shares the inspiring story behind the inception of BlanketBC, detailing how a simple act of kindness led to a community-driven initiative that has grown significantly over the years.

The conversation delves into the daily operations of the organization, the challenges faced in the non-profit sector, and the broader social issues surrounding homelessness. Greg offers candid reflections on the political landscape and the need for effective solutions to curb homelessness, emphasizing the importance of community support and personal responsibility.

The episode concludes with Greg's heartfelt gratitude for the volunteers and supporters of BlanketBC, as well as his aspirations for the future of the organization.

Takeaways

* BlanketBC started from a simple act of kindness.

* Community support is crucial for non-profit success.

* Daily operations involve significant volunteer efforts.

* The organization helps not just the homeless but families in need.

* Homelessness is a complex issue that requires multifaceted solutions.

* Political engagement is necessary to address social issues.

* Comfort can lead to complacency in addressing community needs.

* Effective treatment centers are essential for recovery.

* The importance of personal responsibility in community support.

* Gratitude for volunteers is vital for sustaining non-profit work.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Blanket BC and Its Mission

02:29The Origin Story of Blanket BC

05:05The Scope of Assistance: Beyond the Streets

07:44Challenges in the Non-Profit Sector

10:15Daily Operations and Volunteer Engagement

15:28Reflections on the Current State of Homelessness

20:53Greg's Vision for Addressing Homelessness

21:43The Struggles of Normalcy and Inflation

22:35The Consequences of Free Drug Policies

23:26Survival Over Voting: A Harsh Reality

24:26The Need for Effective Help and Support

25:20Learning from Global Approaches to Drug Issues

26:13The Importance of Treatment and Follow-Up Care

27:08Creating Purpose Through Housing and Employment

28:03The Role of Government in Addressing Homelessness

29:03The Passion Behind Community Service

29:56Reflections on Family and Community Impact

31:01Looking Ahead: Future Goals for Blanket BC

In this podcast short, Political Pulse Podcast host Ryan Painter muses on how British Columbians are feeling in the wake of 3 stabbings in Vancouver and Surrey, and if we'll ever see action from government to make our streets safe again.

In this engaging episode of the Political Pulse podcast, Ryan Painter interviews Drea Humphrey, B.C. Bureau Chief for Rebel News, discussing the essence of journalism, the role of Rebel News in the media landscape, and the recent arrest of Ezra Levant. Drea shares her perspective on citizen journalism, the challenges faced by independent media, and the importance of standing up for press freedoms. The conversation highlights the need for diverse voices in journalism and the ongoing fight against censorship in Canada.

Takeaways

* Drea Humphrey defines journalism as a means to correct societal wrongs.

* Rebel News serves a vital role in providing alternative narratives.

* The arrest of journalists raises concerns about press freedom in Canada.

* Drea emphasizes the importance of citizen journalism in today's media landscape.

* Rebel News has a strong support base that helps them continue their work.

* The police's treatment of Rebel News journalists reflects a troubling trend.

* Drea calls for solidarity among journalists against censorship.

* The mainstream media often overlooks stories that Rebel News covers.

* Rebel News is committed to providing the other side of the story.

* Drea encourages listeners to consider their stance on freedom of the press.

Chapters

00:00The Essence of Journalism

02:40Rebel News and Its Role in Media

04:45The Arrest of Ezra Levant

07:37Rebel News' Response and Resilience

10:44The Future of Rebel News

In this conversation, Ryan Painter engages with Ambassador Iddo Moed, discussing his role as the Israeli Ambassador to Canada, the historical context of Israel-Canada relations, and the challenges faced in recent years. The dialogue also touches on personal insights and experiences that shape diplomatic relations, culminating in a reflection on the importance of collaboration and understanding in diplomacy.

Takeaways

* The role of an ambassador is to represent their nation effectively.

* Israel and Canada share a long history of collaboration.

* Recent years have seen strains in Israel-Canada relations.

* Understanding personal experiences can enhance diplomatic efforts.

* Challenges in diplomacy require open dialogue and collaboration.

* Ambassadors must navigate complex political landscapes.

* Cultural exchanges play a vital role in strengthening ties.

* Personal insights can bridge gaps in international relations.

* The importance of empathy in diplomatic discussions.

* Future relations depend on mutual respect and understanding.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Current State of Affairs

09:19 The Role of the Ambassador

16:34 Antisemitism and Political Challenges

20:40 Hope and Resilience in Israel

32:40 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of Painters Political Pulse, host Ryan Painter engages with Brittany, a rising voice in conservative politics and content creation.

Brittany shares her journey from beauty influencer to political content creator, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among women in the conservative movement.

The conversation explores the challenges…

Summary

Carson Binda, the British Columbia Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, discusses the organization's mandate to fight for lower taxes, less waste, and more accountable government. Carson highlights the importance of raising awareness about government debt and its impact on taxpayers. Binda explains the purpose of the debt clock truck, which displays the real-time debt and taxpayers' share. He emphasizes the need for fiscal responsibility, balanced budgets, and tax relief. Binda also discusses the upcoming provincial election in BC and the campaigns the Canadian Taxpayers Federation is working on, such as opposing the home equity tax and fighting against high liquor and fuel taxes. He encourages citizens to vote and get involved in supporting their mission.

Takeaways

* The Canadian Taxpayers Federation fights for lower taxes, less waste, and more accountable government.

* Government debt has real consequences, affecting taxpayers' ability to receive services and keep more money in their pockets.

* The debt clock truck raises awareness about the growing debt and taxpayers' share.

* Fiscal responsibility, balanced budgets, and tax relief are crucial for addressing the debt and making life more affordable for citizens.

* The Canadian Taxpayers Federation campaigns against the home equity tax, high liquor taxes, and excessive fuel taxes.

* Citizens are encouraged to vote and support the mission of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Mandate of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation

01:48Government Debt and Interest Charges

07:47Campaigning for Tax Relief and Responsible Spending

12:36Opposing the Home Equity Tax, Liquor Taxes, and Fuel Taxes

20:50Raising Awareness about Government Debt

25:30Hope for a Shift in Public Sentiment towards Fiscal Responsibility

27:07Conclusion and Call to Vote