US: Americans Supportive Of Plans To Reduce Federal Inefficiency And Red Tape
Jan-27 18:33
A new surveyfrom AP-NORC finds that “Majorities [of US adults] believe that corruption, inefficiency, and red tape are major problems within the federal government.”
AP: “Republicans are more likely to believe corruption, inefficiency, red tape, and defiant civil servants are all major problems within the federal government. However, many Democrats and independents also consider government corruption and inefficiency as major problems... Even with those concerns about government operations, most people think the government is spending too little in key areas such as education, social security, Medicare, Medicaid, assistance to the poor, or border security.”
The survey suggests that Americans are largely supportive of the core mission of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. However, Americans may be less inclined to support President Donald Trump's broader overhaulof the federal workforce.
Figure 1: Problems with Federal Government, % US Adults
Source: AP-NORC
CANADA: Politics Week: Carney Pulls Ahead In Liberal Leadership Endorsements
Jan-27 18:26
Ontario Premier Doug Ford plans to call an election for Feb. 27, arguing he needs a mandate to tackle the threat of U.S. tariffs. He's also shown unease since the Liberals brought in a new leader.
Donald Trump delayed his threat of a 25% tariff to Feb. 1 or later, pulling back from earlier signals he would do so upon taking office.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will resign March 24 to allow for a Liberal leadership race. Mark Carney gains momentum over Chrystia Freeland in the decision set for March 9, grabbing cabinet minister endorsements while Freeland struggles to define her record in CBC interview.
Trudeau has suspended Parliamentary business until his March 24 resignation, short-circuiting opposition parties who intended to force a snap election when the legislature had been due to open Jan. 27.
Foreign interference inquiry report due for release Tuesday, unclear if any current lawmakers will be revealed.
Polling aggregator 338Canada shows Conservatives likely to win majority government if election were held now.