Fighter jets, Epstein vote, MBS goes to Washington, and more

Summary

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Your World Tonight – Episode Summary

Date: November 18, 2025
Hosts: Susan Bonner & Stephanie Skenderis
Podcast: CBC – Your World Tonight
Episode Title: Fighter jets, Epstein vote, MBS goes to Washington, and more
Duration: ~26 minutes

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Overview

On this episode, hosts Susan Bonner and Stephanie Skenderis guide listeners through the day’s top global and Canadian news stories. The key topics include the brewing debate over Canada's fighter jet fleet, political and economic tensions impacting Canada-US relations, a pivotal U.S. Congressional vote on the Jeffrey Epstein files, the Saudi Crown Prince’s high-profile visit to Washington, rising violence in the West Bank, and Alberta's legal maneuvering over transgender laws. The episode closes with a fascinating discovery of wolves using tools in British Columbia.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Debate Over Canada's Next Fighter Jets (00:52–05:02)

• Context: Swedish officials and executives from Saab lobby Ottawa, offering to build fighter jets in Canada, promising about 10,000 jobs, as an alternative to the existing $27B F-35 deal with the U.S.
  • Industry Minister Mélanie Jolie expresses openness to leveraging procurement for greater local benefits.
    • "I don't believe that we've had enough jobs created and industrial benefits done out of the F35 contract." – Reporter Julia Wong (02:26)
    • "We can use military procurement to get more. And that is why we're looking indeed at the Gripen." – Mélanie Jolie, paraphrased (02:48)
• Swedish Royal Visit: Swedish King and Queen, along with defense and corporate leaders, make a formal pitch for the deal.
  • "It is my hope that this state visit will contribute to further deepening our excellent bilateral relations." – King Gustav (03:30)
• Analysis: Former defense official Alan Williams suggests a mixed fleet could provide savings.
  • "I would be shocked if, in fact, the cost analysis didn't say, Prime Minister, you can save a ton of money by having two fleets." – Alan Williams (04:27)
• Pushback: Senior defense officials—and some former military leaders—are reportedly pushing against reconsidering the F-35 deal.

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2. Canada, U.S., and Finland Join Forces on Arctic Security (05:02–06:24)

• Agreement: The three nations plan to bolster their icebreaker fleets and share expertise to defend the increasingly strategic Arctic.
  • "If we give up that high ground, then we will condemn future generations to permanent insecurity and we're not going to let that happen on our watch." – Host Susan Bonner (05:27)
• U.S. Role: Washington to build new icebreakers with Canadian and Finnish input; Canada will build for its Coast Guard.

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3. Budget Vote and Political Tensions in Canada (06:24–09:13)

• Update: Prime Minister Mark Carney passes a crucial budget confidence vote—a first major hurdle for his economic agenda.
  • "Very pleased that we passed the budget vote... but [there are] more votes to come." – PM Mark Carney (06:45)
• Political Drama: Conservatives criticize excessive spending; Bloc Québécois feels ignored and issues a warning.
  • "They exploited the momentary weaknesses of everybody and this is not how our policy should be done. So I believe it will come bite their ass." – Bloc leader Yves François Blanchet (08:30)
• No Backroom Deals: No opposition was offered concessions, raising stakes for future votes.
  • "If you want to be comfortable, don't enter federal politics." – Government House Leader Stephen McKinnon (08:53)

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4. Saudi Crown Prince Visits Washington Amid Khashoggi Backlash and Business Deals (10:12–13:19)

• High-Profile Visit: Mohammed bin Salman’s first U.S. visit since journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder draws attention, but Trump shields him from tough questions.
  • "A lot of people didn't like that gentleman that you're talking about... things happen, but he knew nothing about it and we can leave it at that." – Donald Trump (11:21)
• Business & Security: Saudis expand investments in U.S. to $1 trillion; F-35 jet sales to Saudis raise Israeli concerns about maintaining their military edge.
  • "Now you're saying to me now that the $600 billion will be $1 trillion." – Donald Trump (12:01)
• Middle East Peace: Trump pushes for Saudi participation in Abraham Accords; bin Salman links this to Palestinian statehood.
  • "We want peace for the Israelis, we want peace for the Palestinians. We want them to coexist peacefully in the region." – Susan Bonner paraphrasing diplomatic messaging (12:50)
• Memorable Moment: Trump contrasts his show of respect with Biden’s:
  • "And Trump doesn't give a fist pump. I grabbed that hand. I don't give a hell where that hand's been." – Donald Trump (13:05)

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5. Violence and New U.S. Peace Plan in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (13:19–16:19)

• Incident: An attack in the West Bank (ramming and stabbing) leaves one Israeli dead; heightened Israeli settler violence against Palestinians.
• Prime Minister Netanyahu: Condemns settler violence, but critics say authorities permit impunity.
• UN & Peace Plan: UN Security Council endorses Trump's demilitarization and stabilization plan for Gaza; Hamas flatly rejects the international force proposal.
  • "Regarding Gaza and the deployment of security forces, it doesn't meet the needs of the Palestinian people or their rights." – Hazem Qassem, Hamas (15:26)
• Mixed Local Reaction:
  • "This agreement will stop conflict and stop war... I'm totally agreed with this." – Inas Jabour, Gaza resident (15:41)
  • "I don't like it because the decision brings foreign troops into Gaza to use force." – Mohamed Al Turk, Gaza resident (15:53)

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6. U.S. Congress Votes to Release Jeffrey Epstein Files (16:19–19:36)

• Historic Vote: Lawmakers approve release of all Epstein files, following Trump’s last-minute reversal under party pressure (427–1 vote).
• Victims’ Reactions: Emotional press conference from survivors; calls for Trump to show leadership and empathy.
  • "It is not about you, President Trump. You are our president. Please start acting like it. Show some class. I voted for you. But your behavior on this issue has been a national embarrassment." – Jennalisa Jones, survivor (18:11)
• Trump’s Response: Blames Democrats, insults reporter, and threatens ABC’s license.
  • "You just keep going on the Epstein files and what the Epstein is, is a Democrat hoax." – Donald Trump (18:34)
  • "You're a terrible person and a terrible reporter. I think the license should be taken away from ABC..." – Donald Trump (18:45, 18:53)
• Next Steps: Bill moves to White House; if signed, a 30-day timer starts for the files’ public release.

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7. Alberta’s Notwithstanding Clause to Shield Anti-Trans Laws (19:36–22:26)

• Bill 9: Alberta proposes use of “notwithstanding clause” to prevent court challenges to laws targeting transgender people—restricts medical treatments, pronoun changes, and sports participation for youth.
• Pushback: Critics warn this erodes democratic rights.
  • "When a government uses the notwithstanding clause to strip away rights, it is not just targeting one group, it's attacking the very foundation of our democracy." – Marni Panas, trans advocate (20:24)
• Government Stance: Premier Danielle Smith frames the move as responsive to majority opinion and accountability.
  • "We're keeping these decisions in the hands of those who are directly accountable to Albertans." – Danielle Smith (21:04)

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8. Canadian Snowbirds Changing Their Migration (23:11–25:47)

• Trend: Fewer Canadian retirees (“snowbirds”) are wintering in Florida; top reasons include political tensions after Trump’s re-election and unfavorable exchange rates.
  • "My little thing to do was change my winter vacation." – Joanne Roe, retiree (23:39)
  • "I'm not gonna let one individual dictate what makes us happy." – Silvio Conte, Ontario (24:04)
• Economic Impact: Florida sees 20% drop in Canadian tourism; businesses feel the pinch.
  • "Over a half a million jobs in Florida that are directly contributed to that economic presence of Canadian snowbirds." – Josh Levy, mayor of Hollywood, FL (24:30)
  • "All you hear is we're missing the Canadians. We are trying to fill the gap..." – Amy Faulkner, hotel sales director (24:53)
• Future Outlook: Local leaders hope the diplomatic chill will thaw.

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9. Wolves Use Underwater Fishing Traps as Tools – A Scientific First (25:47–end)

• Discovery: On BC’s central coast, researchers document wild wolves using ropes to pull up crab traps—a potential breakthrough in understanding animal cognition and tool use.
  • "Our jaws dropped. It was not what we were expecting to see, to say the least." – Researcher (26:02)
  • "They're putting two and two together to get four that if I do something with this rope, I'll be able to pull the cage and get a crab." – Mark Bekoff, animal behaviorist (26:40)
• Importance: First known instance of wild wolves using tools; may have learned from observing humans.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Trump on Khashoggi’s murder:
  "Things happen, but he knew nothing about it and we can leave it at that." (11:21)
• Victim’s plea to Trump:
  "It is not about you, President Trump. You are our president. Please start acting like it. Show some class. I voted for you. But your behavior on this issue has been a national embarrassment." – Jennalisa Jones (18:11)
• Alberta’s Danielle Smith:
  "By invoking it, we're keeping these decisions in the hands of those who are directly accountable to Albertans." (21:04)
• Florida business on missing Canadians:
  "All you hear is we're missing the Canadians. We are trying to fill the gap..." – Amy Faulkner (24:53)
• Wolf research breakthrough:
  "Our jaws dropped..." (26:02)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• Fighter Jets Deal & Saab Proposal: 00:52–05:02
• Canada-U.S.-Finland Arctic Pact: 05:02–06:24
• Canadian Budget Vote & Political Fallout: 06:24–09:13
• Saudi Crown Prince in Washington: 10:12–13:19
• Israeli-Palestinian Violence & Peace Plan: 13:19–16:19
• Epstein Files Congressional Vote: 16:19–19:36
• Alberta Notwithstanding Clause: 19:36–22:26
• Canadian Snowbird Migration Trends: 23:11–25:47
• Wolves and Tool Use Discovery: 25:47–end

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In Summary

This episode of Your World Tonight navigates global diplomacy and domestic tensions—covering the scramble over Canada’s next jet fleet, the politics of defense and economic policy, sensitive international alliances, big moves on justice for Epstein’s victims, legislative battlegrounds for transgender rights, and the surprising adaptability of wild wolves. Through prominent voices, notable quotes, and on-the-ground reports, the podcast offers a comprehensive, insightful, and uniquely Canadian take on today’s world.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Reporter Julia Wong]

We're really interested in seeing what can be done. There was an unsolicited bid that came up. 10,000 jobs is indeed a very interesting offer.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Canada's Minister of Economic development is intrigued as a Swedish jet set touched Canada's minister of Economic Development is intrigued as a Swedish jet set touches down in Ottawa hoping to land a deal. A European pitch to build this country's next fleet of fighter planes with the status of an American contract still up in the air. Welcome to youo World Tonight. I'm Susan Bonner. It's Tuesday, November 18, coming up on 6:00pm Eastern. Also on the podcast, a lot of.

[Donald Trump]

People didn't like that gentleman that you're talking about. Whether you like him or didn't like him, things happen. But he knew nothing about it and we can leave it at that. You don't have to embarrass our guests by asking a question like that.

[Host Susan Bonner]

That gentleman is journalist Jamal Khashoggi. And things happen is how Donald Trump characterized his death and dismemberment. The US President defending the Saudi crown prince on a visit to Washington and brushing aside questions about his role in a mur. To understand the serious business behind this royal visit, just look at the entourage joining the king and queen of Sweden in Ottawa. Aerospace executives and top ministers are also here courting the Canadian government with a proposal to supply the country with fighter jets and thousands of jobs. But taking them up on the offer would mean Canadian officials turning their back on the United States. Senior defense correspondent Murray Brewster has more.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

I don't believe that we've had enough jobs created and industrial benefits done out of the F35 contract.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Industry Minister Melanie Jolie going further than she has in the past about her expectations when it comes to the signed $27 billion fighter jet purchase with US defense giant Lockheed Martin.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

We can use military procurement to get more. And that is why we're looking indeed at the grif and we're having conversations with Saab. So I'm having conversations with Saab, which is offering at this point 10,000 jobs. We'll see how that is concrete and at the same time we're looking at what Lockheed Martin can do.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

More Jolie's enthusiasm for leveraging more out of the deal comes amid a royal Full court press by Sweden.

[Host Susan Bonner]

We're signing a strategic partnership between Canada and Sweden.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Prime Minister Mark Carney greeting Sweden's King and Queen who are in Ottawa along with senior defense and and corporate leaders. King Gustav praised Canada.

[Host Susan Bonner]

It is my hope that this state visit will contribute to further depending on excellent bilateral relations.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Warm words that stand in contrast to the ongoing war of words with the United States since President Donald Trump returned to the White House. Sweden and its top defense company have sensed an opportunity ever since Carney ordered a review of Canada's purchase of the F35s last winter, Saab's Gripen finished second to the F35s in the federal government's fighter jet competition. The suggestion has been the Air Force would accept the first batch of 16 F35s on order and then shop elsewhere for the remaining fleet. Aside from enticing Canada with building the Gripen in this country, some believe there may be other reasons to consider a mixed fleet.

[Host Susan Bonner]

70% of the cost of any acquisition is the life cycle sustainment cost.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Alan Williams is a former senior defence official who has long urged Canada to keep an open mind.

[Host Susan Bonner]

So I would be shocked if in fact the cost analysis didn't say, Prime Minister, you can save a ton of money by having two fleets.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

The Air Force and many senior defense officials are quietly opposed to revisiting the F35 contract. That opposition may be getting louder. Radio Canada has reported former high ranking officers are hoping to put an end to the courtship between Canada and Saab. They've sent a letter to the federal government to reiterate the benefits of acquiring a full fleet of F35s to meet Canada's military needs. Murray Brewster, CBC News, Ottawa.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Defending the Arctic is at the heart of an agreement Canada just signed with the US And Finland. The countries plan to work together to bolster their fleets of icebreakers. US President Donald Trump has previously said he didn't support the pact. Today, U.S. homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said all three countries could pool their experience.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

The Arctic is the world's last, most.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Wild frontier and our adversaries are racing to claim its strategic position and its rich natural resources for their own. If we give up that high ground, then we will condemn future generations to permanent insecurity and we're not going to let that happen on our watch. To thrive in the Arctic, we need icebreakers. Washington has chosen a Canadian company's design for six new icebreakers which will be built in the US with help from Finnish companies. Canada will also build two new polar icebreakers for the Canadian coast guard. The day after winning a critical vote on the federal budget, the work is not over for the Liberal government. As the prime minister prepares for an international trip, Mark Carney now faces the tough task of making his economic vision a reality. Olivia Stefanovic reports. It is such an honour to welcome you, your majesties to Canada.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

With the red carpet rolled out in the frenzied halls of Parliament, Prime Minister Mark Carney returned to his diplomatic duty greeting the King and Queen of Sweden.

[Host Susan Bonner]

We're meeting at exceptional times before departing.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

For a week long international trip. The day after his first budget overcame a crucial test.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Very pleased that we passed the budget vote. There are more votes of course to come through the budget process but important step for our country.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

Carney is now heading to the United Arab Emirates, then South Africa for the G20. Finance Minister Francois Philippe Champagne says he was supposed to join the Prime Minister.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, I had to change my schedule.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

Actually but is staying back to stick handle the budget's next steps.

[Host Susan Bonner]

And obviously I understand politics is part of this place but I think in moments like that there's moment in our nation history where you need to elevate yourself from politics and say let's do something for the country.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Shall I dispense with no one prepared.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

To defeat the government. The House of Commons passed its second confidence vote this week, a Ways and Means motion bringing the government closer to implementing its budget. But it won't always be be that easy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Canadians are cash strapped and needed a break.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Instead the Prime Minister gave them the costliest budget in Canadian history and put it all on the national credit card.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

The Conservatives continue to criticize the fiscal policy for tens of billions of dollars in new spending while stalling the government's bail reform bill from being studied at committee. A key Liberal federal election promise.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

They refused the possibility of having support from us with very clear conditions.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

Bloc Quebecois leader Yves Francois Blanchet is also putting the government on notice after the Liberals declined to entertain any of the separatist party's requests in exchange for.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Support on the budget as they were.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Not good partners for anybody. They exploited the momentary weaknesses of everybody and this is not how our policy should be done. So I believe it will come bite their ass.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

Asked how comfortable the Liberals feel moving forward Government house leader Stephen McKinnon.

[Host Susan Bonner]

I have very good advice for everyone. If you want to be comfortable, don't.

[Reporter Olivia Stefanovic]

Enter federal politics, noting nothing was offered to any of the opposition parties for their help thus far. So the game of chicken continues. Olivia Stefanovic, CBC News, Ottawa.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Coming right up, bridging a Gulf. Saudi Arabia's crown prince gets a warm welcome from Donald Trump on his first visit to Washington since the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and simmering violence in the west bank as questions swirl about a US Backed plan for peace in Gaza. Later, we'll have this story.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

As cold weather settles over much of the country, Canadian snowbirds are starting the trek. But this year fewer are expected to fly to the United States. As long as the politics are the way they are and there's tariffs on Canada and we're trying to protect Canada.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Economically, I don't want to go back.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

I'm Julia Wong in South Florida with the snowbirds who made the trip, those who migrated elsewhere and what it all means for the Florida economy. That story is coming up on youn World tonight.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Canada's not the only country with a royal visit today, and fighter jets were also on the agenda in Washington. But that's where the similarities end. The White House hosted the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, his first trip to the US since the high profile murder of a journalist, a killing Mohammed bin Salman was asked about this afternoon, but Donald Trump answered for him. Paul Hunter has the latest.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Outside the White House. A grand welcome from Donald Trump for Saudi Arabia's controversial crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, a military flyby. And warm words from the U.S. president.

[Donald Trump]

I want to just tell you what an honor it is to be your friend.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

It's the first visit to the US for the effective Saudi leader in seven years, not since US Intelligence concluded bin Salman likely signed off on the brutal killing of a Washington Post journalist and Saudi critic in 2018. Your Royal Highness, when a reporter asked about that in the Oval Office, said Trump.

[Donald Trump]

A lot of people didn't like that gentleman that you're talking about. Whether you like him or didn't like him, things happen, but he knew nothing about it and we can leave it at that. You don't have to embarrass our guests by asking a question like that, said.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Bin Salman, who's always denied any involvement.

[Host Susan Bonner]

We did all the right steps of investigation.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

We are doing our best that this doesn't happen again. Key to the trip for both countries, business deals from AI to pharmaceuticals to weaponry.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

As you said, Mr. President, it's the.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Most hottest country in the planet.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

The Saudis today taking an earlier pledge to invest some $600 billion in America and nearly doubling that.

[Donald Trump]

Now you're saying to me now that the 600 billion will be 1 trillion.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Definitely, because what we are signing it will facilitate that and build it.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Among the transactions, the sale of American F35 fighter jets, raising concerns in Israel with its own U S Made weaponry and US Guarantees that its sales to other countries would never leave Israel's force diminished. Also on the agenda, we've had a.

[Donald Trump]

Very good talk on the Abraham Accords.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Trump's hope to have the Saudis sign the Abraham Accords aimed at stabilizing the Middle East. Though bin Salman seemed to underline that would hinge on Palestinians getting their own state, something US Ally Israel continues to reject. We want peace for the Israelis, we.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Want peace for the Palestinians.

[Host Susan Bonner]

We want them to coexist peacefully in the region.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Trump also made mention of his predecessor in the White House, Joe Biden, and Biden's fist bump with bin Salman on a Biden visit to Saudi Arabia. Trump, by contrast, shook hands with the Saudi.

[Donald Trump]

And Trump doesn't give a fist pump. I grabbed that hand. I don't give a hell where that hand's been.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

Soon enough, private talks began with a big dinner tonight and more meetings set for tomorrow. Paul Hunter, CBC News, Washington.

[Host Susan Bonner]

One Israeli is dead and three others injured after an attack in the occupied West Bank. It comes a day after violent clashes and attacks by Israel. Israeli settlers against Palestinians. It is the latest in a series of assaults that has Israel's prime minister speaking out. Tom Perry has more from Jerusalem.

[Reporter Tom Perry]

Police and soldiers at the scene of a deadly attack. Israel's military says two Palestinian assailants rammed a vehicle into pedestrians in the occupied west bank and then began stabbing people. The military says both attackers were eliminated and that explosives were discovered in their vehicle. This assault targeting Israelis comes amid a rising wave of attacks by Jewish settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. The latest happening near Bethlehem. Video shows a passenger van engulfed in flames and other scorched vehicles with windows smashed. We were at home and heard banging, says Ali Abu Loha. I went outside and saw masked men throwing rocks toward the house. We got scared, so we left and it turned out they were settlers. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the violence, calling the attackers a small extremist group, urging authorities to pursue them to the fullest extent of the law. Though human rights groups and the UN say those authorities often turn a blind eye, that settlers who enjoy strong support from far right parties in the Israeli government often act with a sense of impunity.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now.

[Reporter Tom Perry]

While the west bank simmers, the United Nations Security Council has now endorsed a peace plan for Gaza put forward by US President Donald Trump. It calls for a demilitarization of the territory and an international stabilization force to provide security. That idea already rejected by Hamas. Regarding Gaza and the deployment of security forces, it doesn't meet the needs of the Palestinian people or their rights, says Hazem Qasem, spokesperson for Hamas. On Gaza's streets, views are more mixed. Inas Jabour sees merit in the plan.

[Host Susan Bonner]

This agreement will stop conflict and stop war on Gaza Strip between the Israeli side and the Palestinian side. So I'm totally agreed with this.

[Reporter Tom Perry]

Mohamed Al Turk takes the opposite view.

[Host Susan Bonner]

I don't like it because the decision brings foreign troops into Gaza to use force.

[Reporter Tom Perry]

There are still many questions about Trump's peace plan, including whether Hamas will ever voluntarily disarm. For now, the ceasefire in Gaza is holding, even while tensions in the west bank continue to grow. Tom Perry, CBC News, Jerusalem.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Women who were victimized years ago by Jeffrey Epstein say they feel a sense of vindication tonight. US Lawmakers have voted overwhelmingly to release all files related to the convicted sex offender. It comes after Donald Trump abruptly changed his mind about the release. And as Katie Simpson reports, the US President could soon be asked to formally approve it.

[Reporter Paul Hunter]

The bill is passed.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

It was nearly unanimous, lawmakers voting 427 to 1 in support of a bill to compel the government to release all files related to the late sex offender. Jeffrey Epstein, a lone Republican from Louisiana, opposing the bill, he says because innocent people could be unfairly named. Still, this is a remarkable moment considering President Donald Trump and his powerful allies had tried for months to stop this from happening.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Honor to stand here again for something.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

America has finally united on. Lisa Phillips, an Epstein abuse survivor, welcomed the surge in support at an emotional news conference on the Capitol Hill lawn held before the vote. Anticipating the victory, Sky Roberts credited the advocacy work of his sister, Virginia Giuffre, the Epstein victim who died by suicide earlier this year.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

You didn't just make a small debt.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You made a monumental impact.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

There were plenty of tears, along with bursts of frustration. Charlaine Rochard, among the survivors, angry the pursuit of justice has been politicized.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Let me be clear.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

This is not a hoax.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

Another survivor, Jennalisa Jones, calling on the president to be more supportive.

[Host Susan Bonner]

It is not about you, President Trump. You are our president. Please start acting like it.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Show some class I voted for you.

[Host Susan Bonner]

But your behavior on this issue has been a national embarrassment.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

Trump changed his position and backed the bill only after it was clear many in his party planned to defy him, though his tone has not changed.

[Donald Trump]

You just keep going on the Epstein files and what the Epstein is, is a Democrat hoax.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

Trump lashed out at a journalist in the Oval Office after she asked about the release of the Epstein files.

[Donald Trump]

You're a terrible person and a terrible reporter.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

He even threatened to punish ABC News, the reporter's employer.

[Donald Trump]

I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and it's so wrong.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

Trump campaigned on releasing all Epstein files and has angered his supporter base by failing to follow through.

[Host Susan Bonner]

And the American people won't tolerate any other bullshit.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

That's where we are today, sparking a public split with MAGA leaders, including Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.

[Host Susan Bonner]

And he called me a traitor for standing with these women.

[Reporter Katie Simpson]

The bill moved quickly to the Senate where it was passed with unanimous consent and now heads to the White House. If Trump signs it, it starts a 30 day timer for the files to be made public. Katie Simpson, CBC News, Washington.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Nearly a year after passing controversial legislation that impacts transgender people, Alberta's government is now proposing another bill that would shield those laws from legal challenges, including at the Supreme Court. Erin Collins explains how the notwithstanding clause could do that.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Before it was even tabled. Backlash to Bill 9 building on the steps of Alberta's legislature, I can't think.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Of a single person whose life is being improved by what's happening with Bill Nye.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There isn't a single person. Bill Nye uses the notwithstanding clause to stop challenges to three laws passed last year. All impact transgender Albertans. But opponents like trans advocate Marni Panas say using the notwithstanding clause impacts everyone.

[Host Susan Bonner]

When a government uses the notwithstanding clause to strip away rights, it is not just targeting one group, it's attacking the very foundation of our democracy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The laws shielded by today's bill cut a wide swath restricting access to some gender reassignment treatments for youth, requiring parental consent for students under 16 to change their pronouns, and limiting participation in women's and girls sports to those who were born female.

[Host Susan Bonner]

These measures reflect the views of an.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Overwhelming majority of Albertans.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says using the notwithstanding clause is about ensuring that elected bodies aren't overruled by the courts.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

By invoking it, we're keeping these decisions.

[Host Susan Bonner]

In the hands of those who are.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Directly accountable to Albertans.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is the second time in under a month Alberta has used the notwithstanding clause, which prevents a constitutional challenge to a law. It was embedded in back to work legislation that forced teachers back to the classroom, a move the teachers union says it will challenge in court. And in neighboring Saskatchewan, the use of the notwithstanding clause to prevent challenges to its pronoun legislation is already being fought in the Supreme Court. Jeffrey Sigelet is a constitutional expert at UBC's Okanagan campus. He says some provinces have started using the notwithstanding clause more often to protect their laws from being overturned by the courts.

[Host Susan Bonner]

The provinces have used it more also since there's been a kind of ideological non alignment between a federal liberal government and provincial conservative governments that's sort of kicked off since 2015.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's unclear if Alberta's latest use of the clause will be challenged, but the province insists today's bill will stop ongoing court challenges of its existing transgender laws in their tracks. Aaron Collins, CBC News, Calgary.

[Host Susan Bonner]

This is yous World Tonight from CBC News. If you want to make sure you stay up to date and never miss one of our episodes, follow us on Spotify, Apple, Wherever you get your podcasts, just find the follow button and lock us in Some important changes to note in the migratory patterns of a well known species of Canadian snowbirds are not flocking to the US in the same numbers this season, turned off by Trump and tariff turmoil. Many are finding new winter habitats and it's having an impact on local economies. The CBC's Julia Wong is snowbird watching in South Florida.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

White sand beaches, hot weather and relaxed life lifestyle. It's what drew retiree Joanne Roe to Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the past 10 years. But her feelings changed after US President Donald Trump was re elected soon after turmoil over tariffs, then conversations with friends about Canada becoming the 51st state. It bothered me that they didn't really.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Pay attention to Canada and what we.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Offered and how much we supported their.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Economy, and vice versa.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Rose says there were already challenges, including the low Canadian dollar, but says friction between the two countries compelled her to leave. My little thing to do was change my winter vacation. She will spend her winter in Mexico instead at Maple Leaf Golf and Country Club, a Florida retirement community with a heavy Canadian presence. Silvio Conte from Ontario says nothing will stop him from flocking south.

[Host Susan Bonner]

I'm not gonna let one individual dictate what makes us happy.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

So Florida is one of the top destinations for Canadian snowbirds, but the most recent state tourism data shows a 20% drop from the same time last year, ruffling feathers over what that means for the lucrative snowbird economy.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Rhetoric on trade has certainly offended Canadians.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

Josh Levy is the mayor of Hollywood, Florida. The city has welcomed snowbirds for decades. They're a big part of the economy, he says.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Over a half a million jobs in Florida that are directly contributed to that economic presence of Canadian snowbirds.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

The beachside Atlantic Hotel and Spa has always had a strong Canadian presence, according to sales director Amy Faulkner. But Canadian occupancy at the hotel has fallen 5% since the start of the year. The disappearing Canucks are the talk of the business community, faulkner says.

[Host Susan Bonner]

All you hear is we're missing the Canadians. We are trying to fill the gap because that's how much that business all.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

The also slipping away from Realtors like Larry Mastropieri. The longtime agent says fewer Canadians are buying Florida homes and more Canadians are unloading their homes. The exchange rate is one factor, he says. Political rhetoric is another.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Given the political environment, it's been a topic without question.

[Reporter Julia Wong]

He hopes all of this will be short lived. But for Roe, the cost of changing her behavior hinges on one thing. As long as the politics are the way they are and we're trying to protect Canada economically, I don't want to go back. For lawmakers and businesses in Florida, there's hope the long standing friendship between the two countries will ultimately prevail over politics. Julia Wong, CBC News, Hollywood, Florida.

[Host Susan Bonner]

We close tonight on British Columbia's Central coast, where animal researchers are used to hearing the howl of the wolves. But some fishing traps had them saying, how did they do that? Our jaws dropped. It was not what we were expecting.

[Narrator/Announcer]

To see, to say the least.

[Host Susan Bonner]

Folks who know wolves who get to spend time with wolves, it's not surprising that they are intelligent enough to be able to do something like this. But this kind of behavior has not been seen yet in wild wolves. Kyle Artel is a biologist and researcher who was on the case of some traps set in the water near Bella Bella. The traps are used to control an invasive crater crab species. They were being damaged and the crabs were being eaten. Researchers suspected a marine animal, but cameras set up on shore found the real culprits were wolves. And capturing how they did it could be a groundbreaking discovery. Mark Beckoff is a professor emeritus from the University of Colorado. They're putting two and two together to get four that if I do something with this rope, I'll be able to pull the cage and get a crab. The traps were deep underwater and out of sight for the wolves, but each was attached to a rope linking it to a buoy floating on the surface. The footage shows the animals retrieving the buoy, bringing it to shore, and then pulling on the rope until the trap emerged. In a study published this week in the journal Ecology and Evolution, researchers say it's the first time wild wolves have been observed using tools, and the animals may have learned to retrieve the traps by watching humans do it, findings that could prove wolves are more intelligent than previously thought. Thank you for joining us. This has been youn World Tonight for Tuesday, November 18th. I'm Susan Bonar. Talk to you again.

[Reporter/Correspondent]

Foreign.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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