Conservatives lose another MP — and a Secret Santa gift

'Twas the evening before the Liberal holiday party, when all through the House… Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. And then, a Christmas surprise that sent the Conservatives awry: Markham—Unionville MP Michael Ma announced he was crossing the floor to join Prime Minister Mark Carney.

His move brings the Liberal government within one seat of a majority. Are the Conservatives sweating this? Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman joins The House to discuss whether Pierre Poilievre's leadership is under threat.

Then, as some provinces flirt with giving the private sector a greater role in health care, will the federal government push back? Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel joins host Catherine Cullen to discuss — and weighs in on the impact the “Make America Healthy Again” movement is having in this country.

Plus, the Liberals introduced yet another tough-on-crime bill — this time aimed at stronger penalties for crimes against women and children. Lawyer and University of Ottawa visiting professor Kate Kehoe digs into whether the proposed law will actually make women safer.

Finally, from possible pipelines to potential referendums, there’s a lot stirring in the federation lately. The House checks in with former premiers Jason Kenney and Andrew Furey to get their take on the state of our nation.

This episode features the voices of:

• Melissa Lantsman, deputy leader of the Conservative Party of Canada
• Dr. Mundeesh Kaur, a foreign trained physician from India
• Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health
• Kate Kehoe, lawyer and University of Ottawa visiting professor
• Jason Kenney, former premier of Alberta
• Andrew Furey, former premier of Newfoundland & Labrador.