Canada’s 45-Minute Budget

A post-budget analysis

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Events around this year’s budget unfolded rapidly after its release at 4 p.m. March 22nd. By approximately 4:45 p.m., the leader of the NDP and the leader of the Bloc had both decided to vote against it. The Liberals had already made that conclusion earlier. So why analyze a budget that was a live option for all of 45 minutes? Budgets reveal government priorities — and this budget could have ramifications for Canadians for many years to come.

About the authors

David Macdonald

David joined the CCPA as its Senior Ottawa Economist in 2011, although he has been a long time contributor as a research associate. Since 2008, he has coordinated the Alternative Federal Budget, which takes a fresh look at the federal budget from a progressive perspective. David has also written on a variety of topics, from child care to income inequality to federal fiscal policy. He is a regular media commentator on national policy issues, often speaking to the CBC, Globe and Mail, Toronto Star and Canadian Press. David received his BA from the University of Windsor and his MA from the University of Guelph, both in Philosophy. Follow David on Bluesky at @davidmaccdn.bsky.social