If politicians weren’t so snarly, more collegial, ratings might rebound

Has Question Period always been so joyless? Even if the show is free, there is only so much vitriol audiences can tolerate. A little collegiality, even if it’s fake, would be a welcome holiday gift. And it might even help our grim-faced political pugilists in the polls.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. While every Parliament features ferocious rivalries, harsh personal attacks and outlandish accusations, some have also offered moments of humour, good-natured teasing, or simple acknowledgement of humanity across the aisle, writes Susan Riley. The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY SUSAN RILEY

December 12, 2022

CHELSEA, QUE.—There was an edifying moment recently in Canadian politics. A beaming Doug Ford, standing in front of a watchful Justin Trudeau, announced a major new investment in electric vehicle manufacturing for Ingersoll, Ont. More than that, the Ontario premier actuall...

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