Here is a roundup of recent stories designed to bring you up to speed.
Trump's Tariffs to Stay in Effect Amid Appeal
A federal appeals court ruled on Tuesday that U.S. President Donald Trump's extensive global tariffs will remain in place while the underlying case is heard. This decision extends an emergency stay initially granted due to a lower court's determination that the tariffs are unlawful. The United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit stated that "a stay is warranted under the circumstances," providing a temporary victory for the Trump administration as it faces legal challenges in its efforts to reshape global trade.
White House spokesman Kush Desai emphasized that the Trump administration is utilizing powers granted by the Constitution and Congress to address national emergencies including persistent trade deficits and drug trafficking. Desai expressed hope that the administration will ultimately prevail in court.
Poll Suggests Canadians Critical of Israel
A new poll indicates that nearly 50% of Canadians believe that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, nearly two years after the onset of the current conflict. Conducted by the polling firm Leger, this survey asked Canadians and Americans a series of questions regarding the Gaza Strip situation. The findings come at a time when the Canadian federal government is under pressure to take definitive action condemning Israel's actions in the region.
Leger specifically inquired whether respondents "agree or disagree that Israel is committing genocide in the Gaza Strip" based on their definitions of genocide.
Feds Look to Boost Weak Summer Jobs Market
In response to a historically weak summer job market for students, the Canadian federal government is taking steps to improve employment opportunities. An economist has pointed out that the tough job prospects for young people reveal a broader softness in the job market. Statistics Canada reported that approximately one in five returning students aged 15 to 24 was unemployed in May 2025, marking the highest student jobless rate outside the pandemic since May 2009.
On the same day as the job report, the federal government announced an expansion of the Canada Summer Jobs program, which provides wage subsidies to businesses that hire young people for seasonal positions.
Concern in Canada After U.S. Vaccine Panel Fired
Canadian medical professionals and scientists are expressing concern over the recent dismissal of an immunization advisory committee by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. health and human services secretary and an outspoken anti-vaccine advocate. This decision means that new members are to be appointed to the scientific group that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on vaccination issues.
Angela Rasmussen, a virologist from the University of Saskatchewan, commented that this move is likely to encourage false anti-vaccine beliefs in both the U.S. and Canada, creating an environment where anti-vaccine sentiments are more readily accepted and less challenged.
N.S. Miners Strike a Century Ago Still Resonates
Marking a pivotal moment in Canada's labor history, a deadly riot that took place in Nova Scotia in 1925 continues to be remembered for its impact on workers' rights. On June 11, 1925, William Davis, a 37-year-old coal miner and father of nine, was shot and killed by a special constable employed by the British Empire Steel Corporation. This tragedy highlighted the violent measures used to suppress strikes over inadequate wages and unsafe working conditions.
Danny Cavanaugh, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, reiterated the significance of Davis's story, emphasizing the sacrifices made by unionized workers in their fight for rights and dignity. His death is commemorated annually, serving as a reminder of the historical struggles faced by workers in their quest for equitable treatment.
CRTC Holds Hearing on Internet Choice
On Wednesday, Canada's telecommunications regulator, the CRTC, is hosting Day 2 of a four-day hearing designed to address consumer issues related to internet service shopping. The consultation, which began in December, aims to simplify the process of comparing home internet plans in response to public complaints regarding information transparency.
The CRTC is considering implementing a standardized label for internet service options that would provide essential details like price and speed, akin to nutrition labels found on food products. Major industry players such as the Canadian Telecommunications Association along with Telus Corp., Bell Canada, and consumer advocacy group OpenMedia are scheduled to present their insights during this hearing.
