Political change in the winds from the north. Canada’s long-serving Prime Minister Jean Chretien has resigned, and Paul Martin, the man known as Chretien’s loyal Finance Minister for many years is being sworn in as his replacement. Simple, straightforward, no fuss, very Canadian. Except that behind the story is a much more interesting tale of palace intrigue, and envy and ambition.
It is also of particular interest here in the United States, where some are wondering how this succession might repair the bruised relations between Washington and Ottawa. Canadians have remained strongly opposed to the war in Iraq and to many policies of the Bush Administration. At the same time, Canadians are almost completely dependent on the U.S. for international business. So what’s the new PM to do?
Guests:
John Gray, freelance journalist and author of “Paul Martin: the Power of Ambition”
Pamela Wallin, Canadian Consul General to New York.