Why Canada Feels Broken and What Could Change It | Mike de Jong

Why Canada Feels Broken and What Could Change It | Mike de Jong

From Leaders on the Frontier by Return to Reason

May 26, 2026 · 53 min · Episode 209

About this episode

Mike de Jong discusses the challenges facing Canada and offers insights on potential solutions for economic growth and policy reform.

Former BC Finance Minister Mike de Jong has spent years inside government making real budget decisions during economic stress and crisis periods in British Columbia. He reflects on what actually worked in office, balancing budgets, managing deficits, and dealing with the political pressure that comes with long-term planning. He also breaks down where policy is creating roadblocks today, especially around housing, LNG, investment, and uncertainty over land and regulation. But it’s not just criticism, he also explains what a realistic path forward looks like if governments focus again on growth, investment, and clear rules.

People in this episode

Host: Return to Reason

Guest: Mike de Jong

Topics covered

  • Canada
  • politics
  • economic policy
  • housing
  • investment
  • budget management

Keywords

  • Canada
  • economic crisis
  • budget decisions
  • housing policy
  • LNG
  • investment
  • land regulation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: British Columbia

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