Ian’s note: The title for this episode was meant as a (weak) joke about the BC NDP’s Childcare plan (it puts babies first, get it?), and not in anyway an attempt to undermine the credibility of Finance Minister Carole James or any women in politics. I’m sorry for this shortsightedness and will continue to try better in the future.

The BC NDP have released their first full budget, so we’re dedicated the entire show to it! First, Ian & Scott break down the major highlights and reactions from the opposition. Then they speak with UBC economist Tom Davidoff about the 30 point housing plan and finally with tax economist Lindsay Tedds about the MSP Task Force and the announced phase out of MSP premiums.

Plus a few quick takes and we close off with our picks for this week’s #bestofbcpoli

This week’s intro music is Unmade by Ian Cromwell. Vote for the song in CBC Music’s Searchlight every day until February 28.

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Links

Baby’s First Budget

Interview with Tom Davidoff

at 16m14s

Interview with Lindsay Tedds

at 50m55s

Apologies for the lower quality on this interview, we were trying a new call recorder.

Quick takes

at 1h04m03s

#bestofbcpoli

1h14m33s

Our long national tantrum is over. https://t.co/jk47eIdl5f — Patrick Meehan (@Patmeister) February 22, 2018

The NDP war on upper end homes ignores that many of these homes command premium prices because they invovle significant work from skilled trades people and expansive furnishings from BC builder supply companies. A blow for our residential construction and supply sectors. — Dan Ashton (@DanAshtonBC) February 21, 2018

While you’re passing on their concerns, maybe pass back to them that instead of building upper end homes for 5, maybe build developments that will house 500 instead? And while we’re at it, are those builders the same ones who donated $25k+ to your re-election campaign? #bcpoli pic.twitter.com/AnRPA09zYW — Tony Bui (@Tony_Bui) February 22, 2018

The NDP war on upper end homes ignores that many of these homes command premium prices because they invovle significant work from skilled trades people and expansive furnishings from BC builder supply companies. A blow for our residential construction and supply sectors. — Dan Ashton (@DanAshtonBC) February 21, 2018