Host David Cochrane announced live on Power & Politics that Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux will be stepping down. Jeneroux stated his decision was driven by the desire to focus on his family amid recent Conservative Party turmoil over the past 48 hours.
The Power Panel, joined by CBC's Rosemary Barton, provided immediate commentary on the impact of losing two MPs within a single week. They discussed whether this trend poses a growing challenge to Pierre Poilievre's leadership of the Conservative Party.
Defence Minister David McGuinty addressed questions on how the proposed $82 billion defence budget aligns with Canada's goal to reach NATO’s 3.5% of GDP spending target by 2035.
"We are assessing how close the new budget will bring us to the NATO spending commitment set for 2035."
McGuinty's statements highlight ongoing efforts to meet international defence spending obligations.
Summary: Matt Jeneroux's resignation amid party tensions adds pressure on Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, while Defence Minister McGuinty outlines progress toward NATO spending goals.