Rising Above the Mean
How opinion researchers can stay human in an AI-enabled world There is no doubt that the widespread adoption of AI is manifesting broader changes in the way many of us work. Though, as an opinion researcher, it is tempting to talk about what everyone else thinks about AI, it’s also important to reflect on how […]
From Problem to Policy: A Guide to Effective Budget Advocacy
Turning Your Policy Idea into a Viable Budget Proposal—A Practical Guide What goes into a good budget submission? The House of Commons is now moving at full speed after the holiday break and the Standing Committee on Finance (FINA) has issued its yearly call for pre-budget briefs from stakeholders. The submission deadline is April 30th, […]
The Ring of Fire: Partnerships, Progress, and the Road Ahead
The strategic importance of the Ring of Fire is no longer in question. Today, with geopolitical tensions reshaping supply chains and intensifying the race for secure critical minerals, the region’s value has never been greater. The real question is how to move projects forward in a landscape defined by distance, complexity, and diverse perspectives. I […]
Felix Burns Promoted to Senior Account Director
Felix Burns has been promoted to Senior Account Director at Counsel Public Affairs, based in Toronto. Specializing in legislative affairs and issues management, Felix’s experience across senior roles in Ontario’s government helps clients navigate Queen’s Park and achieve their goals. At Counsel, Felix brings clear navigation of relationships at Queen’s Park, a keen ability to […]
Minority Report: Fall Sitting Displays New Parliament’s Struggles
After a burst of activity in the spring following Mark Carney’s April election win, Canada’s new Parliament returned in September to face more familiar gridlock. Parliament’s resumption saw Pierre Poilievre re-enter the House after winning a byelection in Alberta, setting the stage for a more engaged official opposition. The government was only able to pass two bills during the fall sitting and has only […]
Former National Security Advisor Jody Thomas Joins Counsel Public Affairs
Counsel is excited to welcome Jody Thomas as a Senior Advisor. Jody brings more than 35 years of leadership experience in national security, defence, and intelligence, having served in some of Canada’s most senior roles. Most recently, she was National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister until 2024. Her distinguished career also includes serving as […]
Protecting Ontario: Key Takeaways from Ontario’s 2025 Fall Economic Statement
The Ford Government tabled their Fall Economic Statement (FES) today, providing an update on their Plan to Protect Ontario with support for businesses and workers while boosting the economy to help weather the economic uncertainty caused by the U.S. tariffs. Not simply an economic and fiscal update, the FES is the next chapter in the […]
Carney’s Change Cabinet
Post-election cabinet shuffle signals dramatic transition from Trudeau government Currently only two seats shy of a majority government, Prime Minister Mark Carney has selected a dramatically different “change cabinet” ahead of Parliament’s return on May 26th, marking a significant departure from the Trudeau government. Carney’s new ministry maintains continuity with the critical relationships built by […]
Mark Carney’s Liberal Party Poised to Form Strong Minority Government
With special ballots still being counted across the country, Mark Carney’s Liberal Party will form a new government. Currently four seats shy of the 172 seats required to form a majority, the likely final outcome is a strong minority, enabling the Liberals to govern on a vote-by-vote basis. The Liberals’ reversal of fortunes since the […]
Platform Pitches: All Federal Parties Release Platforms
Who goes first? As we enter the final week of the federal election, all federal parties have released their platform as of today. The Conservatives announced their platform this morning, while the NDP and the Liberals released their platforms over the weekend. With the Liberals leading consistently in the national polls, they received some backlash […]