Prof. Gerald Baier explains the age difference in Canadian and American leaders
The average age of Presidents is increasing, while the average age of Prime Ministers is decreasing. Professor Gerald Baier explains this is due to the higher cost of entering elections in the U.S.
Prof. Kathryn Harrison on Saskatchewan’s horrifying confirmation it will break federal law
SaskEnergy confirmed that the province will not pay the federal carbon price levy. Professor Kathryn Harrison describes this breach of federal law as “an extraordinary moment in Canadian democracy.”
Prof. Kathryn Harrison says Canada could learn from China’s reduction in carbon emissions
China has become a world leader in renewable energy technology. Professor Kathryn Harrison says Canada must learn from China and do more for the climate given the “average Canadian accounts for twice as many annual greenhouse gas emissions than the average Chinese.”
Prof. Kenny Ie’s new article examines ministers as policy actors through analysis of mandate letters
Professor Kenny Ie’s new article examines mandate letters, an important mechanism that prime ministers use to “construct” ministers and their policy work. These letters contain policy tasks that can illuminate the character and variation of policy work assigned across portfolios.
Prof. Stewart Prest on the budget options available to B.C.’s NDP
Professor Stewart Prest says the B.C. NDP can focus on quick wins or long-term sustainable solutions in their new budget. Their decision is particularly important given the upcoming election.
Prof. Stewart Prest discusses Canadian politicians taking a stance on global issues
Professor Stewart Prest says whether local politicians respond to global issues depends on the context and the importance of maintaining working relationships. He says that “conflict involves a battle for global public opinion” and while championing a cause outside one’s daily work may win applause from some contituents, it may alienate others.
Prof. Stewart Prest says plans to abolish the Vancouver Park Board by May are aspirational
Two local First Nations have vocalized support for Mayor Ken Sim’s plan to abolish the Vancouver Park Board during the spring legislative session. Professor Stewart Prest says significant opposition means it is incredibly unlikely the Vancouver Charter will be changed by then.
Prof. Gerald Baier explains why politicians opt for legal challenges over referendums to solve controversial decisions
The Vancouver Park Board recently voted to pursue legal avenues against its elimination. Professor Gerald Baier explains that many local and municipal politicians choose legal routes over referendums to preserve their reputations. However, this also decreases their direct accountability to the electorate.
Prof. Max Cameron discusses Canadian electoral reform
Motion 86 failed in the House of Commons despite Prime Minister Trudeau’s 2015 promise for electoral reform. Professor Max Cameron discusses the current First Past-the-Post system and explains how Proportional Representation and Ranked Ballot Voting systems would work.
Prof. Gerald Baier comments on MLA Selina Robinson’s removal as B.C.’s Minister of Advanced Education
Premier Eby removed MLA Selina Robinson as Minister of Education because of her inaccurate Palestine comments. Professor Gerald Baier suggests Eby’s hesitancy to remove Robinson was due to party loyalty and a desire for perceived cabinet stability.