In the January 17, 2026 edition of letters to the editor, readers engaged in heated debate over perceived media bias in Canadian politics and shared contrasting views on cross-border relations with the United States.
Political Reader Blasts Media as Liberal "Lobbying Group"
A letter from Mike Adair of Barrie, Ontario, offered a sharp rebuttal to a recent column by Warren Kinsella titled "Poilievre’s base takes hit," published on December 28. The reader accused the mainstream media (MSM) of acting as a de facto lobbying arm for the Liberal Party.
"With the mainstream media — and that includes Kinsella — acting like the Liberals’ own lobbying group, the Conservatives, regardless of who is leader, will always be seen as ‘losers’ to you," the letter stated.
The correspondent directly challenged Kinsella's analysis that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre had seen a collapse in a 30-point lead because "He seemed too Trumpy." The letter framed this narrative as a coordinated effort between the Liberals and the media during the last election, calling it a "dishonest message."
"Blame yourself and your MSM types for these failures you point out. Not Pierre, not the party, not the membership," the writer concluded, arguing that Poilievre is targeted because he is effective at highlighting government failures.
Sunshine State of Mind: Reader Praises U.S. Border and Friendship
Striking a different tone, a second letter from George Dohnal expressed "disgust" at negative comments from other Canadians about treatment received from Americans. The reader provided a counter-narrative based on personal experience.
Dohnal described a swift, two-minute border crossing at Fort Erie, detailing a simple exchange with a border agent: ‘Where are you going? For how long? Do you have any alcohol?’ After brief answers, they were waved through.
The letter highlighted ongoing positive social interactions at a golfing community, noting friendships with people from Boston and Bellingham, Washington. "All were as friendly and welcoming as previous years. In fact, our best friends come from Boston and Bellingham, Wash. Nothing has changed," Dohnal wrote, attributing improved physical and mental health to the outdoor activities and sunshine.
The writer suggested that isolated incidents of poor treatment are amplified to "foment anti-American sentiment."
Underlying Tensions in Public Discourse
These letters, published side-by-side, reflect enduring fractures in Canadian public discourse. The first touches on deep-seated perceptions of institutional media bias in political coverage, a recurring theme in conservative commentary. The second tackles the often-sensitive topic of Canada-U.S. relations at a personal level, challenging popular narratives with firsthand account.
Together, they present a snapshot of national conversation in early 2026, covering the intertwined realms of domestic politics and international neighborly perceptions.
