Podcast Summary: Your World Tonight (CBC)

Date: November 24, 2025
Hosts: Susan Bonner, Stephanie Skenderis
Episode Title: Backlash to Carney’s “Who cares?” comment, Comey indictments dismissed, businesses face Black Friday pressure, and more
Length: ~26 minutes

Episode Overview

This episode dives into major world and Canadian news stories of the day, with a focus on economic, legal, and political upheaval:

• Backlash to Prime Minister Mark Carney's "Who cares?" comment amid Canada-U.S. trade tensions
• Dismissal of criminal indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and NY Attorney General Letitia James
• Canada’s retail struggles as Black Friday deals face an economically weary public
• Progress and obstacles in peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S.
• A wave of kidnappings in Nigeria and the government’s troubled response
• The death and global influence of reggae legend Jimmy Cliff
• A quirky Canada-U.S. trade war story: The Rubber Duck Museum’s border migration

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. Mark Carney’s “Who cares?” Comment Ignites Political Storm

[00:30–04:45]

Summary

• Carney, questioned about his recent dealings with U.S. President Donald Trump after stalled Canada-U.S. trade talks, responded rhetorically, “Who cares?” sparking fierce reaction in the House of Commons.
• The Conservative opposition accused Carney of being dismissive about Canadian workers hurt by tariffs.
• Government ministers insisted on their support for Canadian industries and maintained trade negotiations are ongoing, but a new deal is elusive.

Notable Quotes

• “Who cares?” – Mark Carney, when asked about trade talks with Trump ([02:13])
• “We care about the workers who've lost their jobs and don't have paychecks to make their mortgage payments. Why doesn't he care?” – Pierre Poilievre, Conservative leader ([00:41])
• “Just because the leader of the opposition keeps repeating the same line over and over again doesn’t make it real.” – Dominic LeBlanc ([03:18])

Additional Insights

• Ontario’s trade representatives note U.S. officials are prepared to resume talks whenever Trump signals readiness.
• Carney might meet Trump during the FIFA World Cup draw in Washington on December 5.

2. Alberta, Ottawa Approach Historic Pipeline Deal Amid Political Risks

[04:46–07:30]

Summary

• Federal and Alberta governments have drafted a memorandum allowing Alberta exemptions from key federal environmental laws and support for a long-sought pipeline to the BC coast.
• In exchange, Alberta would enhance its carbon reduction scheme and support massive carbon capture projects.
• Resistance is expected from environmental groups, some federal MPs, and the BC government; skepticism remains about project economics and Indigenous consent.

Notable Quotes

• “The devil will be in the details… there is no question that this carries significant political risk for Mark Carney, including within his own caucus.” – Kate McKenna ([06:25])
• "There is not a world in which the current price of oil, a private company is going to step up and pay for this pipeline." – BC Premier David Eby ([06:52])

3. Comey and Letitia James Indictments Dismissed: Judicial Independence Upheld

[08:32–11:25]

Summary

• U.S. federal judge dismisses criminal charges against ex-FBI director James Comey and NY Attorney General Letitia James, both seen as targets of then-President Trump’s Justice Department.
• Judge: key prosecutor appointed unlawfully.
• The ruling is being appealed; the episode underscores the tension over weaponization of justice in U.S. politics.

Notable Quotes

• “The president of the United States cannot use the Department of Justice to target his political enemies.” – James Comey ([09:13])
• "I'm innocent, I am not afraid, and I believe in an independent federal judiciary." – James Comey ([10:53])
• “It's time to stand up and show the fools who would frighten us, who would divide us, that we're made of stronger stuff.” – James Comey ([11:16])

4. Ukraine-Russia Peace Plan: Gaps Widen Despite Negotiation “Progress”

[12:20–14:21]

Summary

• U.S. and Ukraine claim productive talks, but peace is distant as proposals include major territory concessions to Russia.
• European allies push their own counter-proposals, met with Kremlin rejection.
• Trump exerts deadline pressure but appears flexible; U.S. support for Ukraine seen as weakening.

Notable Quotes

• “We hope, of course we hope that the negotiations will work out…Should we wait for all of us to be killed?” – Volodymyr Kravtsov, Ukrainian citizen ([12:44])
• “It is crucial to support the principles on which Europe stands that borders cannot be changed by force.” – President Zelensky ([13:06])
• “The direction of travel of U.S. policy has been absolutely consistent, that is reducing support for Ukraine and reducing support for European security as a whole.” – Keir Giles, Chatham House ([14:12])

5. Kidnappings in Nigeria: Fear, Loss, and Calls for Accountability

[14:38–17:25]

Summary

• 250+ students remain missing in Nigeria’s latest school mass abduction, amid a surge of ransom-seeking armed group attacks.
• Parents, clergy, and human rights advocates decry insecurity and government negligence.
• President Trump blames the Nigerian government for anti-Christian violence; Nigerian officials insist all religions suffer.

Notable Quotes

• “I don't think anybody feels safe. …What is happening in Nigeria?” – Mother Ifeoma Anake ([16:26])
• “Some accuse the Nigerian government of complicity, but I think what's happening is criminal negligence.” – Bulama Bukharti, Nigerian human rights lawyer ([16:50])
• "It is not about religion. It is about what is happening in the larger region." – Foreign Minister Yusuf Taggar ([17:15])

6. Tribute: Jimmy Cliff’s Life and Lasting Legacy in Global Music

[17:42–20:56]

Summary

• Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff dies at 81. His music was pivotal in spreading reggae beyond Jamaica, inspiring artists like Bob Marley and Wyclef Jean.
• Remembered as a humble, transformative figure, his hits ("The Harder They Come", "You Can Get It If You Really Want", "I Can See Clearly Now") helped shape international respect for Jamaican culture.

Notable Quotes & Moments

• “I believe everybody has talent, but it's a matter of willpower and determination.” – Jimmy Cliff ([18:22], archival audio)
• “He didn't come across … like he was a superstar or anything… he was like your brother, your first cousin.” – Norman Otis Richmond, music producer ([19:20])
• “His music … helped shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.” – Jamaican PM Andrew Holness (paraphrased, [20:48])

7. Black Friday: Canadian Retailers Feel the Squeeze in Tough Economic Climate

[20:56–23:55]

Summary

• Black Friday sales are now extended to month-long events as price-wary Canadians seek bargains.
• Small retailers struggle to match big box discounts but hope for a surge in Canadian “buy local” sentiment.
• High inflation, trade uncertainty, and tight consumer budgets define the season.

Notable Quotes

• “Buying gifts for Christmas is kind of… a luxury these days.” – Bryer Stewart ([21:23])
• “Price is the top filter for Canadians.” – Santo Ligotti, Retail Council of Canada ([22:01])
• “Black Friday is… really still the anchor, but it's now more like a season than a day.” – Santo Ligotti ([22:31])
• “It's already very appreciated” if customers buy even one thing local – Fanny Vernole de Villaire, Vidov ([23:45])

8. Rubber Duck Museum Flees Tariffs for Canada

[24:07–25:49]

Summary

• The unique Rubber Duck Museum, based in Point Roberts, WA—a U.S. enclave at the tip of BC—is relocating to British Columbia due to tariff complications and loss of cross-border business.
• Owners describe economic necessity and an emotional connection to Canada.

Notable Quotes

• "With the tariffs, a lot of our vendors didn't know how to charge us…here's 30% tariff charge. Here's a 70% tariff charge." – Neil King ([24:55])
• “We love Canada. We love the culture, we love the people.” – Crystal King ([25:38])
• “It was a very easy decision.” – Museum owners, on relocating ([25:38])

Episode Highlights & Memorable Moments

• Carney’s Offhand “Who cares?” Throws Fuel on Political Fire ([02:13])
• “I'm innocent, I am not afraid, and I believe in an independent…judiciary.” — James Comey ([10:53])
• Jimmy Cliff’s wisdom and humility, remembered in his own words and through colleagues ([18:22],[19:20])
• Rubber Duck Museum’s international odyssey, a quirky lens on cross-border trade woes ([24:23–25:46])

Timestamps for Key Segments

| Topic | Start | End | |---------------------------------|:-------------:|:-------------:| | Carney “Who cares?” & Trade | [00:30] | [04:45] | | Alberta Pipeline Deal | [04:46] | [07:30] | | Comey Indictment Dismissal | [08:32] | [11:25] | | Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks | [12:20] | [14:21] | | Nigeria Kidnappings | [14:38] | [17:25] | | Remembering Jimmy Cliff | [17:42] | [20:56] | | Black Friday Pressures | [20:56] | [23:55] | | Rubber Duck Museum Relocation | [24:07] | [25:49] |

Tone and Style

The episode is brisk, newsy, and direct, with a focus on major political and economic themes, balanced by cultural stories and lighter human interest angles. Quotes and reportorial color capture both the seriousness of world events and the personality behind the headlines.

This summary offers a comprehensive, engaging overview for listeners who want the substance and spirit of the episode without tuning in.