Keeping our political leaders safe

Building fortresses that keep the public at bay is not the answer. Yet, with vitriol and hatred on the rise, we must find a balanced way of ensuring that access is safe and secure for both politicians and the public.

If pedestrians wait at the corner of Wellington and Elgin streets long enough, they'll likely see Prime Minister Mark Carney leaving his office. While we don't want to lose this openness to our political leaders, we also have to ensure safety for all, write Kevin Lynch and Paul Deegan. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY KEVIN LYNCH, PAUL DEEGAN

April 30, 2026

The greatest risk to politicians at the White House Correspondent’s Dinner should be well-timed one-liners and wicked barbs. Unfortunately, what should have been a jovial evening turned ugly when a gunman tried to shoot his way into this year’s dinner last week.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

Top Canadian political and policy opinion and analysis. Saturdays and Sundays. Weekends.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy