Canadian democracy promises representation, but does casting a ballot mean your concerns get heard? Democracy Watch co-founder Duff Conacher offers a framework for questioning the distance between having a vote and having influence. His argument starts with what happens between elections, when access matters and some people can afford more of it.

Your local candidate might agree with you. Their party leader might not. When those loyalties collide, whose position reaches Parliament? Duff points to a pressure on MPs that makes that question harder than simply choosing someone you trust.

Then there is the office door itself. A phone call, a staff member, a request for a meeting: what would reveal who gets through first? Duff questions how much the public can see about access to government.

Topics: Canadian democracy, political donations, MP independence, political staff, lobbying transparency

GUEST: Duff Conacher | http://democracywatch.ca

Originally aired on 2026-10-15

Canadian democracy promises representation, but does casting a ballot mean your concerns get heard? Democracy Watch co-founder Duff Conacher offers a framework for questioning the distance between having a vote and having influence. His argument starts with what happens between elections, when access matters and some people can afford more of it.
Your local candidate might agree with you. Their party leader might not. When those loyalties collide, whose position reaches Parliament? Duff points to a pressure on MPs that makes that question harder than simply choosing someone you trust.
Then there is the office door itself. A phone call, a staff member, a request for a meeting: what would reveal who gets through first? Duff questions how much the public can see about access to government.
Topics: Canadian democracy, political donations, MP independence, political staff, lobbying transparency
GUEST: Duff Conacher |<a href="http://democracywatch.ca"> http://democracywatch.ca</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-10-15

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.