Canada's Happiness Slide: Politics, Pets, & Reconciliations

0:00It's March 24th. I'm Corey with The Story. This is Vancouver News today, driven by AI. The 2026 World Happiness Report is out, and Finland holds the top spot for the 9th year in a row. Canada has tumbled to 25th place, a big drop from 5th back in 2015, even the United States edges us out at 23rd. Earlier this week, commentators pointed to shifts like Canada's Olympic hockey goals in 2014, versus tougher times now. Some joke about needing more wins or even bold moves to boost national mood. In Alberta, NDP leader Nahid Nenchi called out Premier Danielle Smith over her recent Saudi Arabia trip. He highlighted her lack of receipts for the all expenses paid visit in a golden cat gift from officials, labeling it potentially the biggest kickback, and Canadian political history. Meanwhile, federal conservative leader Pierre Poyev has patched things up with podcaster Joe Rogan. After Rogan called him a dumbass for skipping an election invite, the two are now gym partners, lifting weights together.

1:03As Canadians ponder our happiness slide, stories like these remind us that politics, pets, and personal reconciliation all play into the national vibe.