This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Canadian MP Charlie Angus in Brussels during a critical NATO meeting—a setting where the very future of Western democracy was being fiercely debated. I walked away from our conversation with a renewed sense of purpose and an unyielding belief in the power of standing together for what's right.
Since Trump’s election, we have made a concerted effort to cover Canadian politics and how it intersects with the United States. I am proud of our international coverage, and I am grateful that Charlie has become a recurring guest on the network. Little did we know just how important these conversations would be. Yet, here we are, now thrust into the center of the international resistance against Trump.
From the very start of our latest chat, Charlie’s words were a wake-up call. He recounted how recent events—the disastrous Munich Conference, offensive remarks by figures like J.D. Vance and even actions by some MAGA supporters—have left European leaders shaken and disillusioned. As he explained, these actions have not only insulted long-standing diplomatic achievements but have also threatened to dismantle decades of work built on the rule of law and international cooperation.
What struck me most was his vivid description of the cascading effects these actions are having across the globe—from the deep historical wounds felt in Europe to the palpable anxiety among nations on Putin's front line. Charlie’s determination was clear as he detailed his efforts in pushing for a clear stance against extremism, even amidst the discomfort of political banter. I couldn’t help but be motivated by his courage when he recounted a tense moment with a Republican colleague over a Canadian pin—a symbol of national pride that he defended with unwavering resolve.
In our conversation, Charlie didn’t just point out problems; he also highlighted the power of collective action. He spoke passionately about how simple choices—like boycotting companies that support anti-democratic actions—can become the first line of defense for our societies. He reminded me, and now all of you, that ordinary people have the extraordinary power to shape the future. When we choose to support companies, leaders, and policies that uphold human rights and decency, we are taking a stand against tyranny.
Today, as we face turbulent times where our democratic values are repeatedly challenged, I urge you to remember Charlie’s message: we must be resilient, united, and bold in our actions. Let’s not forget that the very principles we cherish—freedom, justice, and dignity—are worth every effort to defend. Together, our choices can ignite change and ensure that our democratic institutions emerge stronger than ever.
Thank you for joining me and being a crucial part of the international resistance against autocracy. We are stronger together.
Consider joining us now as a paid subscriber to keep us going.
Share this post