Canada – mackaycartoons

Thursday July 17, 2025

July 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 17, 2025

Navigating Uncertainty with Strategic Resilience

June 5, 2025

In the complex and often tumultuous world of international trade, Canada’s steel industry finds itself at a precarious crossroads. With the imposition of a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports by U.S. President Donald Trump, challenges have arisen that require astute leadership and strategic foresight. Prime Minister Mark Carney, confronted with an unconventional U.S. administration, has embarked on a path that prioritizes resilience, diversification, and support for Canadian workers.

The crux of the issue lies in the stark imbalance of economic power between Canada and the United States. With 90% of Canada’s steel exports traditionally directed to the U.S., the impact of these tariffs cannot be underestimated. President Trump’s steadfast determination to impose tariffs on foreign steel, regardless of existing trade agreements like CUSMA, places Canada in a difficult position. In such a dynamic landscape, Carney’s approach to diversify Canada’s trade relations and reduce dependency on a single market is not just prudent—it is essential.

News: Steel producers warn of dire consequences of 50% tariff if broader U.S. trade deal isn’t reached

March 13, 2025

Diversification acts as a safeguard against the volatility of U.S. trade policies. By opening new markets and exploring opportunities beyond the immediate neighbour, Canada can reduce its vulnerability to sudden policy shifts. This strategy not only strengthens the steel sector but also aligns with broader national interests in building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.

In tandem with diversification, Carney’s commitment to supporting Canadian steel workers is a crucial component of his strategy. The allocation of $70 million for training supports and $1 billion for technological advancement within the steel industry underscores a forward-thinking approach. By investing in skills development and innovation, Canada is not merely reacting to current challenges but preparing its workforce for the future.

News: Carney cracks down further on cheap steel imports into Canada in bid to protect domestic mills

November 8, 2024

Moreover, the introduction of tariffs on non-free trade countries and reciprocal measures for free-trade partners reflects a balanced response to unfair competition. By reducing the influx of cheap imported steel into Canada—some of which finds its way to the U.S.—Carney addresses a significant concern of the U.S. administration. This measure could open a pathway to a more integrated North American steel market, potentially leading to reduced U.S. tariffs on Canadian products and fostering a collaborative trade environment.

Carney’s measured response, with a focus on long-term sustainability, contrasts with the unpredictability of the current U.S. administration. While President Trump’s policies may be driven by immediate gains and protectionist inclinations, Canada’s approach is rooted in a broader vision of economic stability and growth.

Analysis: Six things Trump should know about Liberia after he praised leader’s ‘good English’

Navigating the challenges posed by an unconventional U.S. presidency requires careful consideration and strategic action. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s emphasis on diversification, worker support, and industry investment demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding Canada’s steel industry. This multifaceted approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the groundwork for a more robust and resilient economic future. As Canada treads carefully in these uncertain times, the path forward is illuminated by a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and international collaboration.

Saturday July 12, 2025

July 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 12, 2025

The Great Lakes at Risk

In the delicate balance of preserving our planet’s natural resources, the Great Lakes stand as a vital beacon of life and sustainability. Spanning 1,200 miles from Minnesota to central New York, these lakes hold 20% of the world’s fresh surface water and provide drinking water to more than 40 million people. They support a thriving ecosystem of 3,500 species and are central to a $750 billion annual economy. Yet, under the Trump administration, these treasures are under unprecedented threat.

Analysis: Cataclysmic’: environmentalists fear effects of Trump cuts on Great Lakes

The recent article from The Guardian paints a sobering picture of the current administration’s disregard for environmental stewardship. Proposed budget cuts to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other key federal agencies threaten to undermine decades of progress in protecting the Great Lakes. Moreover, the administration’s inclination to withdraw from international agreements with Canada raises alarming questions about the future of these vital waters.

The Trump administration’s rhetoric and actions reveal a troubling willingness to prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability. The proposed diversion of Great Lakes water to other parts of the United States, if pursued, could have disastrous consequences for both ecological balance and international relations.

The Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and other binational treaties with Canada are more than mere formalities; they are commitments to stewardship, cooperation, and shared responsibility. They represent a promise to future generations that these waters will remain pristine and abundant.

Graeme Gallery: Donald Trump: Dirtiest U.S. President Ever

State governments and regional organizations have admirably stepped in to fill some gaps left by federal funding cuts, but their efforts alone cannot replace the comprehensive support and enforcement capabilities of the federal government. Without a strong federal commitment, the risks of pollution, invasive species, and water-level fluctuations could escalate, threatening the very fabric of life in the region.

Silence and inaction are not options. The Great Lakes are not just a regional concern; they are a national treasure and an international responsibility. We must demand that the Trump administration uphold its obligations under international agreements and prioritize the health and sustainability of the Great Lakes.

To protect these precious waters, we need bipartisan support, increased public awareness, and unwavering advocacy. The Great Lakes are our Yellowstone, our Grand Canyon—a wonder of the world that demands our respect, care, and vigilance. It’s time to stand up for the Great Lakes and ensure that they remain a thriving legacy for generations to come.

Wednesday July 9, 2025

July 9, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday July 9, 2025

Carney Folds a Bad Hand at the Right Time

August 4, 2023

As Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government announced the eleventh-hour cancellation of Canada’s long-planned Digital Services Tax (DST), many critics—predictably—rushed to frame the move as a capitulation, a humiliation, a sign of diplomatic incompetence. Robyn Urback, writing in The Globe and Mail, likened Carney’s posture to a “chicken dance,” accusing him of flapping and folding in the face of Donald Trump’s latest trade tantrum. The dominant narrative from opposition benches and comment threads alike is that Canada blinked, and that the Prime Minister sold out our integrity.

But this breathless critique misses the point—and badly overstates both the importance of the DST and the value of standing one’s ground for its sake.

Yes, the optics were less than ideal: a tax announced under the previous Trudeau government, long delayed and then abruptly cancelled the night before collections were to begin. Yes, it came in response to Trump’s inflammatory declaration on Truth Social that all trade talks with Canada would be suspended. But if you’re trying to conduct serious negotiations with an impulsive U.S. president who thrives on public shows of dominance, the smarter move isn’t to dig in—it’s to duck and deflect. That’s not cowardice. It’s strategic realism.

Opinion: The digital services tax was bad policy, but killing it now makes us look terribly weak

March 2, 2023

Even if you support taxing big tech—and many Canadians do—the DST was deeply flawed policy. It would have added a mere $1.4 billion annually to government revenue, while inviting retaliatory measures against more than $700 billion in goods and services Canada exports to the United States. Google had already begun passing costs onto Canadian advertisers. And perhaps most damning, the OECD is already in the late stages of crafting a multilateral digital tax agreement, expected in 2026 or 2027. Why rush into a go-it-alone tax that angers your largest trading partner and your own business community, for a short-term gain you might have to roll back anyway?

Critics argue Carney should have scrapped the tax months ago, and they’re not wrong. But to now say that its cancellation constitutes a diplomatic collapse stretches credulity. As one commenter noted, there’s no reason the DST couldn’t be reintroduced later—perhaps within a broader, OECD-aligned framework—if talks with the U.S. break down. What was needed in this moment wasn’t a grand gesture of defiance. It was a de-escalation.

Anyone who’s watched Donald Trump operate—through two presidential terms, global summits, and enough diplomatic ruptures to fill a trilogy—knows that he requires the perception of victory. He needs his headlines. He needs to say “I crushed the other guy.” This is how he negotiates, how he governs, how he breathes.

So if Canada can toss him a symbolic win—killing a policy we probably should have killed anyway—in exchange for getting trade talks back on track, then that’s not surrender. That’s tactical appeasement. It’s ducking now in order to land something more meaningful later: a durable, modernized Canada-U.S. trade and security agreement.

December 1, 2023

Several reader comments got it exactly right. One wrote: “This whole debacle made us look weak and silly and humiliated. Never bluff.” But what if the bluff was inherited from the Trudeau government, already exposed, and the only move left was to fold gracefully and keep the game going? Another put it even more clearly: “Take the public opinion hit in the short term in order to get a signed agreement. It will be crowed about by the White House as a great triumph, but it will be a move towards getting the private sector investment we must have.”

News: What is Canada’s digital services tax and why is it infuriating Trump?

Carney understands the stakes here. The long-term survival of Canada’s economy depends not on sticking to a flawed tax, but on securing trade certainty, attracting investment, and avoiding unnecessary shocks. Sometimes that means letting the other guy do his victory lap.

Is it annoying to watch Trump crow about a “win” at Canada’s expense? Sure. Does it bruise the pride to see the White House press secretary say Canada “caved”? Absolutely. But if that moment of chest-thumping helps clear the path toward a real, grown-up agreement that protects Canadian jobs, industries, and sovereignty—then so be it.

There are bigger battles ahead. Carney would be wise to save his elbows-up posture for a hill that actually matters.

Saturday June 28, 2025

June 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday June 28, 2025

Carney’s Swift Bill C-5: A Canada Day Triumph Amid Ontario’s Criticism

June 4 2025

As Canada prepares to celebrate another Canada Day, Prime Minister Mark Carney has delivered on a promise that resonates deeply with the nation’s aspirations for growth and resilience. The rapid passage of Bill C-5, the “nation-building” legislation, marks a significant achievement for the newly elected Carney government, fulfilling a pledge made during the April federal election. Positioned as a strategic response to external economic threats and internal productivity challenges, Bill C-5 is being heralded as an ambitious and forward-thinking initiative.

Carney’s commitment to enacting Bill C-5 before July 1 was more than a political promise; it was a symbolic gesture of renewal and determination. His government’s ability to shepherd the legislation through both chambers at record speed is seen by many as a testament to effective leadership and the urgency of addressing Canada’s economic imperatives. The bill’s focus on reducing interprovincial trade barriers and fast-tracking projects of national interest aligns with Carney’s vision of economic diversification and strategic autonomy.

News: Carney government’s ‘nation-building’ bill becomes law despite Senate criticism

June 26, 2025

In stark contrast stands Ontario’s Bill 5, the “Protecting Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act,” which, despite being similarly focused on economic development, has attracted substantial criticism. The Ford government’s initiative is perceived by many as prioritizing economic growth at the expense of environmental safeguards and Indigenous rights. This perception is compounded by the government’s previous record, which has often been criticized for insufficient consultation and environmental stewardship. Although Ford received a mandate in a recent provincial election, the low voter turnout suggests a more tepid endorsement of his policies.

The comparatively positive reception of Carney’s Bill C-5 can be attributed, in part, to a sense of optimism and faith in a government that, as of yet, remains untested in its stewardship of the environment and commitment to meaningful consultation. The Carney administration’s promises of full-day engagement sessions with Indigenous rights holders and its emphasis on consultation reflect a desire to balance economic progress with social responsibility. This assurance, coupled with Carney’s credentials in sustainable finance and economic expertise, fosters a belief that his government can navigate the complex intersections of development and rights protection.

News: Senate passes Carney’s signature bill to fast-track major projects

June 17, 2025

While Bill C-5’s passage is a significant milestone, the real test lies ahead in its implementation. The government must ensure that the rhetoric of consultation translates into genuine dialogue and that the fast-tracking of projects does not sideline environmental and Indigenous concerns. The presence of oversight mechanisms and reporting requirements in the legislation offers some reassurance, yet vigilance from all stakeholders remains crucial.

As Canada reflects on its past and looks to its future this Canada Day, the swift enactment of Bill C-5 serves as a reminder of the possibilities inherent in bold leadership and strategic vision. While the Carney government’s record is still in the making, the potential for nation-building is palpable. It is a moment of hope and promise, one that invites Canadians to participate in shaping a future that honours both economic ambition and the values of inclusivity and sustainability.

Happy Canada Day. Have some cake, err, or some pie

It’s amazing how quickly the Mark Carney government managed to pass the ‘nation-building’ Bill C-5, just as he promised before Canada Day. This was the gift he pledged after the Liberals’ victory in the April federal election, and he’s delivered on it. When you compare this to Ontario’s Bill 5, the “Protecting Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act,” there’s a noticeable difference in public perception.

Ontario’s Bill 5 is facing much more criticism, likely because the Ford government doesn’t have a stellar record on environmental matters and consultation. Despite receiving a mandate in a recent election, the low voter turnout suggests a lack of strong backing.

Part of why Carney’s Bill C-5 is being received more positively might be due to his image as a capable and trusted CEO figure. People seem to have faith in his leadership, even though his government is untested in areas like environmental stewardship and proper consultation. On the other hand, Doug Ford is often seen as more of a lovable bumbler, which might affect how his policies are perceived.

Ultimately, when it comes to consultation, there needs to be a limit. It’s important to ensure that projects are scrutinized to minimize risks, but not to the point where development is completely blocked. There’s a fine line between being cautious and being overly restrictive, and finding that balance is key.

Why the Canada Day cartoon so early, you ask? I’m taking my usual time off during the first week of July and won’t be drawing anything for the Tuesday holiday. In the past, this time off included typical Canada Day celebrations, perhaps at a friend’s pool or a cottage, followed by a trip south to celebrate the Fourth of July with American family and friends. Sadly, this year is different due to ongoing issues caused by you know who…

If you haven’t already, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a vital platform for me, especially in the face of recent layoffs and newspaper closures impacting our industry. Don’t miss my animated editorial cartoon for June 28, 2025, below!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/4AKh2KiZ3tw

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Friday June 27, 2025

June 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday June 27, 2025

Also published in the Toronto Star. Posted to Reddit.

Poilievre’s Diminishing Shadow

May 1, 2025

As we embark on the second month since Mark Carney’s resounding victory in the federal election, the contrast between his leadership style and that of Pierre Poilievre has never been more stark. Carney has quickly established himself as a formidable leader, uniting the provinces with his ambitious Build Strong policy encapsulated in Bill C5. This initiative has sparked cooperation and optimism among premiers across Canada, setting a constructive tone that resonates with citizens.

In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s leadership appears increasingly out of step with the current political climate. Known for his negative and contentious approach, Poilievre has often been criticized for focusing more on tearing down opponents than on proposing viable solutions. His alignment with Donald Trump’s rhetoric, particularly the “Canada First” ideology and opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion, alienated many Canadian voters. These positions seemed tone-deaf to the values of inclusivity and global cooperation that many Canadians hold dear.

News: Pierre Poilievre has dropped out of the spotlight. What happens when he comes back?

September 16, 2023

Poilievre’s greatest political success might have been his ability to criticize and demean Justin Trudeau, which once translated into a surge in popularity. However, this strategy has proven insufficient against Carney, who has swiftly demonstrated the effectiveness of a moderate and centrist approach. Carney’s leadership style has been characterized by a commitment to Canada’s sovereignty and identity, as evidenced by his deft handling of Trump’s 51st state rhetoric and his reinforcement of Canada’s constitutional monarchy. The symbolic reading of the Throne Speech by the King further cemented Canada’s distinct national identity.

Moreover, Carney’s commitment to bolstering Canada’s defence and his adeptness in fostering international partnerships were showcased during the successful G7 summit he hosted. These achievements have elevated Canada’s standing on the global stage and underscored Carney’s ability to lead with both vision and pragmatism.

Analysis: Poilievre sets himself the easiest by-election test — ever

January 3, 2025

In comparison, Poilievre’s recent defeat and loss of his parliamentary seat have left him appearing small and increasingly irrelevant. His determination to cling to power might be seen by some as admirable, but it also smacks of desperation. The Conservative Party’s alignment with populism and Trump-lite rhetoric under Poilievre has led many to question whether he represents the future the party desires.

As Canadians look to leaders who can address the complex challenges of our time with nuance and foresight, Poilievre’s contentious style and lack of constructive engagement seem increasingly out of place. In this new era of Canadian politics, marked by collaboration and thoughtful leadership, Pierre Poilievre’s approach feels like a relic of a bygone era—one that is ill-suited to meet the demands of the present and future.

Summer School for Poilievre

Because that’s what happens when you flunk out.

As we roll into the second month since Mark Carney snagged a big win in the federal election, it’s pretty clear there’s a world of difference between him and Pierre Poilievre. Carney’s been on fire, pulling the premiers together with his Build Strong policy in Bill C5 and spreading some much-needed hope and cooperation across the country.

Meanwhile, Poilievre seems to be stuck in a rut, famous for his negativity and constant critiques without offering up any real solutions. His old ties with Trump-style rhetoric didn’t do him any favours either. Sure, he used to score points by going after Justin Trudeau, but Carney’s cool, centrist vibe just makes Poilievre look out of touch.

Carney’s been all about boosting Canada’s identity and standing up to Trump’s influence, making Canada proud on the world stage, especially with his G7 summit success. On the flip side, Poilievre, who lost his seat, is starting to look like yesterday’s news. *Not to mention, fodder for satire.* He’s hanging on tight to power, but whether that’s seen as determination or desperation is up for debate.

With Canadians leaning towards leaders who are thoughtful and cooperative, Poilievre’s confrontational antics feel like a blast from the past. Maybe he’s spending the summer dreaming up new and creative (read: annoying) ways to go after Carney and his crew. Either way, he’s got his work cut out for him if he plans to make a comeback.

If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for June 27, 2025, below!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack