Listen: Who won the French-language leaders' debate?

Broadcaster and Journalist Rob Breakenridge joins Shane Hewitt and the Nightshift with an early look at the French language leaders’ debate and observes the following. Blanchette's strong debate performance; Differing views on oil production as the parties presented contrasting approaches to Canadian oil production. Breakenridge points out  the Conservatives showing strong poll numbers, yet the unique political landscape prevents a guaranteed majority. Also noted, Mark Carney's performance in the upcoming English-language debate is considered critical.

From CJAD in Montreal, Elias Makos joins Shane Hewitt to talk about tonight’s French-language Canadian federal election debate. The French-language leaders' debate saw Poilievre adopt a measured approach, successfully addressing housing and immigration concerns, particularly in Quebec. Carney maintained a strong Liberal position. Blanchet effectively used his French fluency to criticize tax havens and highlight Quebec's immigration concerns. Singh's performance was considered less impactful, focusing his attacks primarily on Poilievre. Immigration was a more central theme in the French debate due to Quebec's specific anxieties. Makos also notes differences between the French and upcoming English debates, suggesting some candidates may be saving their strongest attacks for the latter.

Jaden Braves, CEO of Young Politicians of Canada, a non-partisan youth-led non-profit joins the Nightshift to. discuss the organization's mission to engage young people in Canadian politics, emphasizing the importance of participatory democracy. He argues that current low voter turnout among young adults (around 36%) stems from a perception of politics as intimidating and complex, exacerbated by social media and a first-past-the-post voting system.  The organization promotes civic literacy, non-partisan political engagement, and collaborative dialogue to foster stable governance and prepare the next generation for complex issues. For young people following the election...https://www.youngpoliticians.org/

Originally aired on 2025-04-16