West of Centre

There are now six in the race to replace Rachel Notley. Former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi joined the race on Monday, confirming weeks of rumours. So how does this shake up the race, and how might each candidate bid to stand out in the weeks ahead? Host Kathleen Petty is joined by pollster and political analyst Janet Brown of Janet Brown Opinion Research, Keith McLaughlin, political strategist and former chief of staff to Notley government ministers, and Cheryl Oates, a former advisor to Rachel Notley and co-host of The Discourse podcast, to discuss what issues might define the race and what members are likely to prioritize in the weeks ahead.

The Saskatchewan government is breaking the law by refusing to remit the natural gas portion of what is commonly known as the carbon tax. And the provincial minister in charge has hired a lawyer! West of Centre explores the politics around the unprecedented decision and looks at the parallels with Alberta. 

Host Kathleen Petty is joined by CBC Reporters Adam Hunter and Sam Samson and political columnist Murray Mandryk.

The UCP government brings down a budget that is both about saving AND spending .So is anyone happy? West of Centre host Kathleen Petty and guests sort out Alberta’s finances, described by our finance minister as “champagne tastes on a beer budget." Economist Trevor Tombe is back again this week. Also at the table are political scientist Duane Bratt and the Globe and Mail’s Emma Graney.

The signature campaign promise by Danielle Smith was tax cuts. 

But in her pre-budget , tv address this week, she put those cuts on hold. 

Instead, the premier is focusing on bulking up the Heritage Fund to offset volatile oil prices.  

Where have we heard that before? 

West of Centre host Kathleen Petty is joined by economist Trevor Tombe , Kelly Cryderman of the Globe and Mail and political scientist Lori Williams.

The controversial carbon tax is under attack from all sides, including from provincial NDP leadership candidates.The federal government took a shot at rebranding it this week. But will the Trudeau Liberals kill the unpopular tax before the Conservatives can? And how can we fight climate change without it?  

On the West of Centre podcast, guest host Jason Markusoff is joined by former conservative cabinet minister Gary Mar, energy economist Andrew Leach and Cheryl Oates, former advisor to Rachel Notley.