Episode Details

Today’s episode of The Really Big Show with Jim Csek and Iain Burns takes a hard look at what many are now calling a breaking point for Canadian democracy, as another Conservative MP crosses the floor and helps deliver a working majority to the Liberals.
With Marilyn Gladu becoming the latest MP to switch sides, and now the fifth overall this Parliament, Jim and Iain unpack what this means for voter trust, democratic accountability, and whether Canadians are effectively being governed by a majority they never voted for.
The conversation also dives into growing concerns around conflicts of interest at the highest levels of government. From Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne’s connection to a $90-billion high-speed rail project through his wife’s role at Alto Corp, to questions surrounding Prime Minister Mark Carney and cabinet ministers with ties to firms receiving federal contracts, the episode explores whether ethical guardrails are being tested or ignored altogether.
Beyond Ottawa, global tensions continue to shape the economic outlook. A two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States offers temporary relief, but uncertainty remains around global oil markets and trade. At the same time, CUSMA negotiations appear to be stalling, raising new questions about Canada’s economic position and long-term trade stability.
Jim and Iain also break down Canada’s worsening housing affordability crisis, with new data showing a widening gap between existing homeowners and new buyers, particularly among young families and immigrants. Add in rising whistleblower complaints, unanswered questions around forced labour tied to Chinese companies, and continued silence from key officials, and the picture becomes even more concerning.
The episode also touches on energy opportunity in Western Canada, the ongoing opioid crisis in British Columbia, and the growing debate around expanding MAID to include mental illness.
This is a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the state of Canada’s institutions, economy, and future direction.
Do you think Canadians are still in control of their democracy?
Let us know in the comments.