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Sunday April 27, 2025

April 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Election 2025 Cartoons

A gallery of editorial cartoons leading up the the April 28, 2025 federal election campaign: 

Pierre Poilievre faces challenges adapting his strategy against the fresh leadership of Mark Carney, as Canada's political dynamics shift from opposition to unity.
March 15, 2025
Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.
March 21, 2025
Danielle Smith's alignment with Trump complicates Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's campaign as he seeks to distance the party from divisive politics while facing criticism over perceived weaknesses.
March 25, 2025
Doug Ford and Mark Carney's collaborative relationship offers a pragmatic approach to tackling Canada's economic challenges, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's divisive style.
March 26, 2025
The NDP faces a pivotal election, struggling for relevance as Jagmeet Singh seeks to distinguish the party amid challenges and historical achievements.
March 27, 2025
Canada reconsiders its auto industry alliances, will it embrace European and Chinese EVs for a sustainable future amid U.S. trade tensions?
March 28, 2025
The 2025 Canadian election faces unprecedented foreign interference threats, notably from the US, leveraging social media to manipulate voter sentiment.
March 24, 2025
Canada, Pierre Poilievre, Donald Trump, Mark Carney, Liberation Day, tariffs, Canada, auto, trade, economy, leadership, "maple MAGA", politics, strategy, allegations, election
April 2, 2025
Paul Chiang's resignation amid controversy over foreign interference comments highlights leadership challenges for Mark Carney and the Liberal Party.
April 2, 2025
Amid rising separatist sentiments and tensions in Western Canada, the need for dialogue and compromise is paramount to address regional grievances while promoting national unity.
April 8, 2025
April 9, 2025
April 9, 2025
Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.
April 12, 2025
The 2025 Canadian election sees major parties sidestepping climate change, prioritizing immediate economic concerns while the urgency of the climate crisis remains unaddressed.
April 15, 2025
Trump's rhetoric and policies loom over Canada's leaders' debate, influencing politics and personal decisions.
April 17, 2025
Pierre Poilievre's plan to invoke the notwithstanding clause threatens Canadian democratic norms and sets a dangerous precedent for federal governance.
April 19, 2025
As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.
April 22, 2025
Pierre Poilievre sets a 2% GDP defence target by 2030, aligning with Mark Carney's similar commitment to enhance Canada's military spending.
April 23, 2025
As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh's leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party's need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.
April 24, 2025
As Canada's election campaign nears its end, Trump's rhetoric and policies become pivotal in shaping voter perceptions of leaders Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney.
April 25, 2025
Canada's upcoming election becomes a historic moment amid Trump's global disruptions, challenging its sovereignty and international role.
April 26, 2025

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As people get older and experience many elections, those elections often start to blend together into a blur—especially when it comes to minority governments. It’s one thing to remember the leaders from one election to the next; it’s quite another to keep track of the gains and losses of seats among the four main parties. Add in the key issues of each campaign, and it quickly becomes confusing for anyone who believes the components of campaigning truly matter.

For me, as well as for political enthusiasts and historians, the details of elections are crucial. Campaigns in Canada tend to follow a familiar pattern. They start with the issuing of writs, followed by polls, gaffes, the dropping of candidates, debates, advance polls, the unveiling of costed platforms, endorsements, and the last minute frenzy leading up to election day.

In olden days, politicians would actually show up for editorial board meetings and answer questions with thoughtful answers. Here, Bob Rae, interim leader of the federal Liberal Party before editors at the Hamilton Spectator. Often, I would go to sketch the visitors and listen in on the Q&A. This is long a thing on the past.

These elements have remained consistent in federal elections throughout my career as a political cartoonist. However, what has changed significantly is how media shapes and shares information about candidates and issues. Social media has lessened the need for political groups to communicate through traditional media. In recent elections, I’ve noticed that many local candidates have stopped responding to basic policy questions from newspapers. Many have also not made themselves available for interviews or editorial board meetings. Politicians, like Mr. Poilievre, have limited the number of questions asked during scrums and restricted media access to their campaign buses and planes.

Before anyone brushes this off with a “cry me a river, media dude” attitude, I ask how it helps the public when local party representatives skip all-candidates debates. In my riding of Hamilton Centre, only one candidate showed up to face the sitting NDP MP, Matthew Green, in a televised debate. Ironically, the candidate who attended was from the low-polling Green Party, resulting in a Green vs. Green comedy scenario. This turned into a trivial exercise rather than a meaningful discussion that should have included candidates from the two parties most likely to influence the next session of Parliament. What happened to the days when candidates would knock on doors to meet voters? It seems that the people we elect have either become too important to be accountable to their constituents or have become so trained to stick to party lines that they can’t engage in local conversations.

There are security issues that may prevent candidates from freely interacting with the public and canvassing in neighbourhoods as they used to. We may need to raise awareness that harassment of public figures, as we’ve seen recently, should not be tolerated.

The beauty of editorial cartoons is that they capture feelings and ideas that vanish as soon as the votes are counted and the election dust settles. Will anyone remember who Paul Chiang was, that Neil Young endorsed Mark Carney, or why the Greens weren’t included in the debates? Probably not. Did the Niqab ban influence the 2015 election? What about the Blackface scandal in 2019 or the vaccine mandates in 2021? I would argue that they certainly did.

Looking ahead to 2025, it’s a given that Donald Trump has played a giant role in this election, and this is reflected in the editorial cartoons I create. Other themes in my work that will hold relevance in the days to months ahead include Preston Manning’s fears about Western separation, Doug Ford’s comments on Pierre Poilievre, and Canada’s passive approach to bolstering its defence. For the record, I think Jagmeet Singh’s tenure as NDP leader is on the cusp of coming to its end.

Together, editorial cartoons tell a story that written articles cannot replicate. With all due respect to my colleagues who write, this is why editorial cartoons matter—they provide insights that extend beyond mere words.

In this election, I have openly rejected Pierre Poilievre. He has shown himself to be hostile toward mainstream journalism, often criticizing reporters in a manner reminiscent of Donald Trump. He doesn’t offer solutions for struggling legacy media outlets that are being overwhelmed by foreign media companies. It’s challenging to view any politician fairly when they dismiss the role of journalism in a democracy.

As for the future of editorial cartoons, the platforms we once relied on—mainly print media—are disappearing. However, satire has existed for longer than the printing press, and it should continue. I strive to remain relevant in my newspaper’s digital space by animating my editorial cartoons. While static cartoons are appreciated by my generation and older audiences, younger viewers seek movement, and I work on that every day.

Past Election Galleries

2015 Federal Election
2015 Federal Election
2019 Federal Election
2019 Federal Election
2021 Federal Election
2021 Federal Election

 

Posted in: Uncategorized Tagged: 2025 election, Canada, election, Jagmeet Singh, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, Yves-François Blanchet

Our National Nightmare Nears its End

April 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Saturday April 26, 2025 | Newsletter 29

As we wrap up the 2025 federal election campaign, Canada is finally ready to fill the six-month void where leadership should have been. It all kicked off on the U.S. election day when voters decided to hand the keys back to a criminal, sending Trudeau’s already shaky government into a tailspin. In a desperate attempt to win back support, Trudeau’s team rolled out expensive “tax relief” schemes that even his Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland couldn’t back. The resulting fallout had Trudeau wheeling through the holiday season with a disastrous budget tied to the roof of his metaphorical clown car, which predictably crashed on January 6, 2025, when he finally called it quits.

Even after resigning, Trudeau hung around a little longer while Parliament stayed shut and Trump threw his usual tantrums—with tariffs and insults aimed right at Canada. Meanwhile, the Liberals scrambled to find a new leader, while provincial Premiers did their best impression of keeping things together. Enter Mark Carney, the guy with the impressive resume and the task of steering Canada back on track. But first, he has to survive the federal election. Time to brush off the distractions, and the disruption of Timbit Trump and get down to business.

With the April 28, 2025, election looming, this week has been all about setting the stage. The Liberals have a slight lead in the polls, while the other parties are busy trying to make their pitch. Here’s a look at what’s been going down this week.

Monday April 21, 2025
Re-run of the week – July 30, 2022: “Checking Off Apologies”
The week began with the somber news of Pope Francis’s death, prompting reflections on leadership and reconciliation in Canada. His legacy of advocating for Indigenous rights resonates as the nation grapples with its own political challenges in the lead-up to the election. Visit the Pope Francis Retrospective Gallery.

As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.

Tuesday April 22, 2025
“Campaign Promises vs. Reality”  As the candidates ramped up their campaigns with promises of tax cuts, the underlying reality of potential spending cuts raises eyebrows. Voters are left questioning the sincerity of these commitments, emphasizing the need for transparency as the election approaches.
YouTube: Austerity is Coming

Pierre Poilievre sets a 2% GDP defence target by 2030, aligning with Mark Carney's similar commitment to enhance Canada's military spending.

Wednesday April 23, 2025
“NATO Commitments Under Scrutiny”  Trump, Rubio, and Poilievre are shown grappling with NATO’s 2% GDP spending target. Poilievre’s past criticism of Liberal defence spending now rings hollow, as his own commitments mirror theirs. With global tensions rising, voters are left wondering if these targets will lead to meaningful action on national security. Other partners are committing to 3 to 4% as a consensus forms for Canada to up our commitment to a new improved level of defence laggard.
Youtube: PPs 2% Promise

As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh's leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party's need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.

Thursday April 24, 2025
“The NDP’s Dilemma”  Jagmeet Singh faces a critical moment as the NDP’s poll numbers dwindle. While he has achieved some policy victories, the party needs a dramatic turnaround to regain traction. Time is running out for Singh to solidify his leadership and vision for the NDP. With the election race turning into a two party competition the third, forth, fifth and even sixth parties are veering on complete irrelevance.
Youtube: NDP Prop  Shop

As Canada's election campaign nears its end, Trump's rhetoric and policies become pivotal in shaping voter perceptions of leaders Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney.

Friday April 25, 2025
“Trump’s Shadow in Canadian Politics”  Canadians are pondering which candidate most mirrors Trump, as if the answer isn’t glaringly obvious. The question pops up frequently in hyper-partisan conservative posts and the comment sections of mainstream op-eds. A popular jab suggests, “Carney is Trump’s guy because he’s weak.” Meanwhile, in more grounded circles, Pierre Poilievre’s style and tactics have drawn comparisons to Trump, sparking concerns about how this might sway voter sentiment in the upcoming election.
You Tube: Pre-Electlion Day Reflection

Canada's upcoming election becomes a historic moment amid Trump's global disruptions, challenging its sovereignty and international role.

Saturday April 26, 2025

“Elephant in the Election Room”  Featuring a beaver holding a “Vote 2025” sign, staring down a Trump caricature. This imagery illustrates the chaotic political atmosphere and the pervasive influence of Trump’s persona over Canadian politics. Voters must navigate their choices carefully as they consider the implications of such influences.
YouTube: The 2025 Federal Election Elephant

This week has really put the spotlight on the tangled web of this election, from pondering leadership to the messy business of defense spending and party politics. As April 28 draws near, Canadians are going to have to think carefully about their choices, since each one could have a big impact on the nation’s future. After the election, don’t be surprised if a leader or two—or maybe even three—decide to exit stage left, especially if one of the top parties (looking at you, Liberals) grabs a majority. If Canadians wake up to a solid mandate on Tuesday (hint: Carney), we might see some chit-chat between the White House and Ottawa by the end of the week. Let’s toast to finally closing up the power vacuum in Canada and crossing our fingers for a government with a strong majority backing it.

April 21-26, 2025 Animated Feature

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will always be free. Thank you for your continued support!

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Posted in: Substack Post Tagged: Substack

Saturday April 26, 2025

April 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Canada's upcoming election becomes a historic moment amid Trump's global disruptions, challenging its sovereignty and international role.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 26, 2025 (Published in the Toronto Star)

Canada’s Historic Moment Amidst Trump’s Global Disruptions

Canada, Pierre Poilievre, Donald Trump, Mark Carney, Liberation Day, tariffs, Canada, auto, trade, economy, leadership, "maple MAGA", politics, strategy, allegations, election

April 2, 2025

In the annals of modern history, few leaders have managed to cast as wide and as contentious a shadow as Donald Trump. His second term as President of the United States has proven to be an era of unprecedented upheaval, marked by a series of aggressive and unpredictable maneuvers that have sent shockwaves through global political and economic systems. As Canada stands on the brink of a pivotal federal election, Trump’s influence looms large, creating a historic moment that could redefine the nation’s role on the world stage.

From the outset, Trump’s presidency has been a whirlwind of controversy and disruption. His recent threats to annex Canada and impose punitive tariffs have not only strained bilateral relations but have also thrust Canadian politics into the international spotlight. Mark Carney, the Liberal leader and a former central banker, finds himself in a unique position. His expertise and calm demeanour in the face of Trump’s provocations have resonated with voters seeking stability in uncertain times. Inadvertently, Trump has become a significant factor in Canada’s electoral calculus, making this election one of the most consequential in recent memory.

The Guardian: Canada election is Carney’s to lose in contest turned on its head by Trump

Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.

March 21, 2025

The impact of Trump’s policies is not confined to North America. Across the globe, allies and partners are reassessing their relationships with the United States. The European Union, once a steadfast ally, now contemplates a future where it must forge stronger ties internally and with other global powers to counterbalance an unpredictable U.S. administration. Trump’s disregard for established international norms and his penchant for unilateral actions have left many nations grappling with the reality of a world order in flux.

For Canada, this moment presents both challenges and opportunities. Trump’s actions have underscored the vulnerabilities inherent in over-reliance on a single ally, prompting a reevaluation of Canada’s foreign policy and trade strategies. The positive international reception of Carney’s leadership during this crisis highlights Canada’s potential to lead in building multilateral relationships that transcend traditional alliances. This is Canada’s moment to assert itself as a resilient and adaptable nation, capable of navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape.

Opinion: Donald Trump can’t stop trash talking Canada. That may be the reminder we need

Trump's tariffs, justified by a fentanyl pretext, strain U.S.-Canada relations, threaten economic stability, and serve broader political agendas.

March 5, 2025

Yet, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty. Trump’s polarizing presence is both exhausting and dangerous, not only for the United States and Canada but for the world at large. His willingness to upend decades of diplomatic progress in favour of short-term gains and headline-grabbing antics threatens the stability of international systems built on cooperation and mutual respect. As nations scramble to adjust, the spectre of a fragmented global order looms large, with unpredictable consequences for economic and geopolitical stability.

In these historic times, Canada’s election serves as a microcosm of the broader global struggle to adapt to a new era of leadership defined by disruption and unpredictability. As Canadians head to the polls, they do so with the knowledge that their choice will resonate far beyond their borders, shaping not only their nation’s future but also its place within the international community.

Analysis: As the World Recoils, Canada Votes in the Shadow of a Rogue President

The escalating Canada-U.S. trade tensions, driven by President Trump's tariffs, have united Canadians across political lines and spurred retaliatory actions, while opening discussions on diversifying trade partnerships.

February 4, 2025

In the face of such challenges, it is imperative that Canada—and indeed the world—remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of diplomacy, cooperation, and resilience. Only by embracing these values can we hope to navigate the turbulent waters of the present and chart a course toward a more stable and inclusive future.


Not Going Away

So, here’s the scoop: We’ve got this new guy in the neighbourhood, and let’s just say he’s quite the boor and buffoon. But unlike your typical troublesome neighbour, this guy isn’t just a headache for the folks nearby—oh no, he’s a well-known nuisance to everyone up and down the street, and even to the people across the block.

The kicker is the crew he’s got living under the same roof with him. You’ve got J.D. Vance, Pete Hegseth, Marco Rubio, Tulsi Gabbard, RFK Jr., Howard Lutnick, Kash Patel—the list keeps going. And then there are the friends who just can’t stay away, like Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lindsey Graham, and Ted Cruz, all adding to the chaos. It’s like a never-ending parade of drama and misery that these new folks are bringing to everyone around them.

Picture this: We used to have civilized people in that house. Now, it’s filled with nasty folks who can’t seem to get along with anyone, always tossing around insults. There’s no kindness, just this glaring sense of entitlement.

And then there’s Donald Trump, who loves to repeat his mantra—“We don’t need Canada” or “Canada would make a fine 51st state.” Seriously, it’s like he wants Canada but also claims the USA doesn’t need it. Who in their right mind thinks this is a way to win friends? It’s maddening, insulting, and downright bullying.

This is the backdrop as Canadian voters head to the polls next week. Why Trump gets a kick out of this is anyone’s guess, but it’s definitely something for the voters to think about as they cast their ballots.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 26, 2025, below! 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. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

YouTube: The 2025 Federal Election Elephant   https://youtu.be/tyRFNYSpHPc

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada, USA Tagged: 51st state, ballot box, beaver, Canada, Donald Trump, election, Elephant, GOP, sovereignty, Substack

Friday April 25, 2025

April 25, 2025 by Graeme MacKay
As Canada's election campaign nears its end, Trump's rhetoric and policies become pivotal in shaping voter perceptions of leaders Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 25, 2025 (Published in the Toronto Star, April 27, 2025)

The Trump Factor in Canada’s Federal Election

Pierre Poilievre sets a 2% GDP defence target by 2030, aligning with Mark Carney's similar commitment to enhance Canada's military spending.

April 23, 2025

As Canada’s federal election draws to a close, Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has become an unexpected yet dominant figure in shaping the political discourse. His comments on tariffs, trade agreements, and even the audacious suggestion of Canada as the 51st state have stirred the waters, presenting Canadian voters with three pivotal questions: “Carney or Poilievre: Who’s more Trumpy?”; “Carney or Poilievre: Who’s best for Dealing With Trump?”; and “Carney or Poilievre: Who does Trump Prefer?”

Who’s More Trumpy? In terms of policies and demeanour, Pierre Poilievre undeniably channels more of Trump’s attributes. His rhetoric, which echoes Trump’s nationalist populism, includes slogans that promote a “Canada First” agenda. Poilievre’s approach to reducing government influence, skepticism of international organizations, and a confrontational style resonates with Trump’s signature tactics. On the other hand, Mark Carney embodies a more traditional and balanced leadership approach, prioritizing multilateral cooperation and economic stability. Carney’s focus on diplomacy and evidence-based decision-making starkly contrasts with the more brash techniques associated with Trump.

News: Trump talked about the ’51st state’ during call with Carney: Radio-Canada sources

As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.

April 22, 2025

Who’s Best for Dealing With Trump? Despite Poilievre’s ideological similarities with Trump, this doesn’t necessarily make him the best candidate to handle Trump on the international stage. There’s a legitimate concern that Poilievre’s alignment might lead to submission during negotiations, reminiscent of some Republican figures in the U.S. Conversely, Mark Carney, with his extensive background in economics and crisis management, is well-equipped to engage with Trump from a position of informed authority. Trump’s acknowledgment of Carney’s economic expertise likely prompts him to take Carney more seriously than a leader whose policies merely mirror his own.

Who Does Trump Prefer? While it might seem that Trump would naturally favour a leader like Poilievre due to shared ideologies, the reality is more complex. Trump’s respect for Carney’s expertise and strategic acumen is evident. Known for his transactional approach, Trump likely sees value in Carney’s ability to address complex economic issues, understanding that a competent counterpart in Canada could lead to more productive engagements rather than simple ideological alignment.

News: Trump reinserts himself into Canadian politics, saying ‘as a state, it works great’

Trump's rhetoric and policies loom over Canada's leaders' debate, influencing politics and personal decisions.

April 17, 2025

The assumption that Trump would prefer Poilievre simply due to ideological kinship oversimplifies Trump’s pragmatic nature. Trump recognizes Carney’s capabilities and respects his economic insights, understanding that effective leadership involves not just agreement but the capacity for meaningful engagement. As Canadians cast their votes, these considerations emphasize the importance of selecting a leader who can effectively stand up to Trump’s pressures while also facilitating constructive discussions in U.S.-Canada relations. In this election, Carney’s combination of diplomatic skill and economic expertise may offer Canada the most effective path forward in addressing the challenges posed by the Trump era.


Reflection Time

I’ve only got two more editorial cartoons to draw before voting day, and this one featuring Pierre Poilievre consulting the magic mirror counts as one of them! It seems fitting, especially since no U.S. President in living memory has influenced our election so much as Donald Trump has. His comments and antics are really shaping how we view our leaders, especially when it comes to Poilievre and Mark Carney.

As I’m sketching this out, it’s hard not to see how Poilievre channels Trump’s vibe with his “Canada First” attitude and confrontational style. But then there’s Carney, who offers a more diplomatic and balanced approach. It really raises the question: who’s actually better suited to deal with Trump on the global stage?

While Poilievre might seem like a natural fit for Trump due to their shared ideologies, I think Carney’s economic expertise could give him an edge in negotiations. Trump might actually respect Carney’s skills more than just having someone who echoes his populist rhetoric.

It’s fascinating (and a bit concerning) to watch history unfold right before our eyes. So, as we get closer to the polls, let’s think about who can really stand up to Trump’s pressures and foster productive discussions for Canada.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 25, 2025, below! 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. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

You Tube: Pre-Election Day Reflection https://youtu.be/_9UWr9hliC4

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, 51st state, Canada, diplomacy, Donald Trump, Economy, election, leadership, Mark Carney, mirror, Pierre Poilievre, reflection, sovereignty, tariffs, Trade, U.S.

Thursday April 24, 2025

April 24, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh's leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party's need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 24, 2025

As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh’s leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party’s need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.

The NDP Faces a Crossroads Amidst Election Uncertainty

The NDP faces a pivotal election, struggling for relevance as Jagmeet Singh seeks to distinguish the party amid challenges and historical achievements.

March 27, 2025

As Canadians prepare to vote, the New Democratic Party (NDP), under Jagmeet Singh, is facing a tough election. Polls suggest a potential decline in support that could jeopardize the party’s status, highlighting the urgent need for change and strategic adjustment.

Opinion: Donald Trump pounds another nail into the NDP’s coffin

Jagmeet Singh’s leadership has been under intense scrutiny. Since becoming leader in 2017, Singh has had to navigate challenging political landscapes. Yet, his tenure is marked by decisions that have blurred the NDP’s distinct identity. The party’s agreement with the Liberals in 2022, though it brought some policy wins like dental and pharmacare coverage, has left voters wondering what makes the NDP different from the Liberals.

The end of the NDP-Liberal agreement may have provided temporary progress on key policies, but it ultimately risks a Conservative takeover that could undo these gains and highlight the weaknesses of both parties in a shifting political landscape.

September 6, 2024

Strategically, the NDP has struggled to maintain its footing. By supporting the Liberal government, the party inadvertently gave the Conservatives a chance to gain ground, especially on issues like affordability, traditionally an NDP stronghold. This has led to a loss of support, with voters increasingly turning to parties they see as more capable of addressing pressing economic concerns.

Externally, the influence of Donald Trump has shifted voter focus towards leaders perceived as strong on international trade and relations. This shift has made it challenging for the NDP’s focus on social issues to resonate. Internally, the party grapples with an identity crisis, where a shift towards more fringe policies has alienated moderate supporters.

Critics also point to the NDP’s ambitious social programs, questioning how they plan to fund these initiatives. The perception that the party is out of touch with economic realities has eroded its credibility, even among supporters who align with its social ideals.

Analysis: Singh’s fateful steps

Raising concern about Trudeau's governance due to issues like ArriveCAN mismanagement, CERB problems, and potential pitfalls of rushed decisions for political support, such as quick deals on Pharmacare and Dental care.

February 29, 2024

Despite these challenges, the situation presents an opportunity for the NDP to regroup and redefine its role. A change in leadership might be necessary to inject fresh energy and realign the party’s strategies with voter priorities. By focusing on core values like healthcare and social equality, and balancing these with economic pragmatism, the NDP can offer a clear and credible alternative to Canadians.

The party’s future will depend on its ability to adapt and reconnect with voters. As the election approaches, how the NDP addresses these challenges will determine its immediate success and long-term role in Canadian politics.


Dire Dipper Days

Pity the NDP and its leader, Jagmeet Singh, whose tenure may be one of the most consequential in decades due to his influence over Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. Through the Liberal-NDP Supply and Confidence agreement, Singh championed pharmacare, dental care, and elements of the childcare plan. Yet, with just days before the 2025 federal election, the NDP languishes in single-digit support. It seems the party is headed for a harsh voter backlash, possibly signalling the end of Singh’s leadership after eight years. Whether he became too much of a prop for the Liberals, prolonged parliament for his pension, or faced racial bias, the outcome remains uncertain. Though I’m not an NDP member, Singh has been undeniably impactful in enacting NDP policies. Historically, the NDP has influenced significant social reforms, like universal healthcare and the Canada Pension Plan. Today, the party is overshadowed by a national crisis favuoring the Liberals and Conservatives. Though Singh may soon lose his position, his legacy of social benefits for Canadians stands strong.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 24, 2025, below! 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. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

Youtube: April 24, 2025 https://youtu.be/WeNiZj0fLH0

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, Canada, confidence, election, ghost town, NDP, policy, popularity, prop, Saloon, strategy, Substack
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