In politics, Chrétien reminds us that funny trumps nasty

Jean Chrétien belled the Alberta cat in a way that everyone can understand: 'They never sold as much oil as they have today and they’re complaining as if they are going bankrupt?'

Former prime minister Jean Chrétien, pictured at Prime Minister Mark Carney's cabinet's swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall on March 14, 2025.The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

Opinion

BY SHEILA COPPS

November 10, 2025

OTTAWA—Jean Chrétien spent more than 40 years in public life. Upon taking his leave, he still maintains a rabid interest in politics, and has often joked about returning to help the Liberal Party when it has been in need.

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