2023-12

Friday July 21, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday July 21, 2023

Hot Potato Politics: Municipalities Left Holding the Homeless Bag

December 28, 2021

The plight of homelessness has escalated to a pressing concern across municipalities in Canada, demanding urgent attention from politicians and citizens alike. The homeless population has grown to such an extent that they are often seen as this nation’s internal refugees, constantly seeking resources and protection while being redirected to less visible locations.

The transformation of Canada’s population distribution, where now a significant percentage reside in cities, has outpaced the capabilities of our current federalism structure. Originally established in 1864 when the majority lived in rural areas, this system of power-sharing is no longer aligned with the realities of today’s urbanized society. Federal, provincial, and regional governments have been slow to adapt to this shift, hindering effective collaboration to tackle issues like homelessness and affordable housing.

News: ‘It’s about time’: Ottawa offers millions more in housing support to shelter refugees in Toronto  

June 7, 2023

While voices in Hamilton are only now coming together to tackle a problem that finds 1600 people living in encampments, it is essential to manage expectations realistically. Homelessness and affordable housing are national and provincial challenges that cannot be solved solely at the city level. Relying on property taxes for funding major initiatives, such as public transit, research and development, housing, education, healthcare, and environmental renewal, is inadequate and limiting.

Cities are often left in a disadvantaged position, having to plead with provincial or federal capitals for resources beyond their control. This failure of our federal system deprives municipalities of the essential resources needed to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. A new vision and imagination are required to rejuvenate the system, but it demands the willingness of senior authorities to initiate a municipal renaissance. So far, Ottawa and Queen’s Park have been content with minor adjustments instead of making meaningful investments.

February 10, 2022

Canada’s greatest talents lie within communities, but their full potential remains locked away due to outdated and neglectful systems that disregard local needs for increased investments. While there is a national homeless strategy, its effectiveness is hampered when the federal government withholds necessary funding to address the challenges adequately. Similarly, giving Ontario’s mayors additional powers without the accompanying resources is a fruitless endeavour.

News: Growing number of homeless encampments leave smaller cities struggling to respond  

Hamilton’s current effort to address homelessness is seemingly on the verge of coming together, but it may only serve as an innovative pilot project if the required funds are stashed away in senior government capitals. To fully capitalize on cities as Canada’s greatest strength, federalism must be brought into the modern era. Only when this happens can we unleash the true potential of our urban centres and effectively combat homelessness and other pressing issues that affect our communities. (AI) | Cartoon published in the Hamilton Spectator, and the Toronto Star.

 

Thursday July 20, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 20, 2023

Ford Government’s Shameful Revival of Patronage Politics: The King’s Counsel Controversy

March 22, 2019

In yet another display of cronyism and political favouritism, the Ford government has quietly reinstated the honorary title of “King’s Counsel” and shamelessly bestowed it upon numerous lawyers closely associated with the Tory politicians and staffers. This move reeks of patronage politics, eroding public trust in the government and undermining the integrity of the legal profession.

The timing of this announcement is telling, as the press release was conveniently issued late on a Friday afternoon, just before the Canada Day long weekend. Clearly, the government was aware that such a controversial decision deserved close scrutiny and hoped to avoid public backlash. The hasty and surreptitious manner in which this was done further emphasizes that the Ford government is well aware of the ethical implications of their actions.

The 91 appointees to the King’s Counsel title include not only individuals with close ties to the Ford family, but also prominent figures within the Progressive Conservative party. The list comprises influential figures like Gavin Tighe, Ford’s longtime family lawyer, Blair McCreadie, former party president, Christine Elliott, former deputy premier and health minister, and former federal Conservative ministers Peter Van Loan and Rob Nicholson. Moreover, cabinet ministers Doug Downey and Caroline Mulroney also received the title, raising suspicions of their appointments being politically motivated.

June 27, 2019

The King’s Counsel designation, which is found in many Commonwealth jurisdictions, was historically meant to honour lawyers who demonstrated exceptional commitment to the pursuit of legal excellence in service to the Crown, the public, and their communities. However, these recent appointments have transformed the title into nothing more than a tool for rewarding political allies. This blatant misuse has demeaned the profession and tarnished the legacy of what was once a prestigious recognition of legal expertise.

It is crucial to consider the absence of a transparent selection process for these appointments. No public call for nominations was made, and there was no information regarding specific criteria or the appointment process prior to the press release. By bypassing consultation with major legal organizations, the Ford government further isolates these decisions from objective scrutiny and accountability.

While some may argue that the King’s Counsel title comes with no substantial privileges beyond the use of initials “K.C.” and a special silk robe, the real harm lies in the erosion of public trust and confidence in the legal system. The blatant disregard for transparency and fairness demonstrates that these appointments are not based on merit but on political connections.

Series: Young Doug Ford

Ontario had abandoned the King’s Counsel practice in the 1980s, recognizing it as a vehicle for patronage. The Ford government’s decision to resurrect this controversial title is a significant step backward and raises questions about their commitment to ethical governance.

It is vital for any government to demonstrate integrity, accountability, and transparency in its actions, especially when dealing with public appointments. The secretive reinstatement of the King’s Counsel title undermines these principles and perpetuates the perception that political connections matter more than competence and merit.

To restore public faith in the government and protect the integrity of the legal profession, the Ford government must rethink its decision and adopt a fair and transparent process for future appointments. Political favouritism has no place in the judicial system, and Ontarians deserve better than to witness the reincarnation of patronage politics in the 21st century. (AI)

 

Wednesday July 19, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday July 19, 2023

Trump Uses Bad News to Energize His Base

June 14, 2023

Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent announcement that he is now a target of the Justice Department’s investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election is just the latest episode in a long series of legal challenges he faces. Rather than being subdued by the mounting allegations, Trump seems to be using the bad news as a means to rally his troops and strengthen his position within the Republican party.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump disclosed the existence of a target letter he received from prosecutors, indicating that he could soon be facing charges related to the 2020 election. While the purpose of such a letter is to inform individuals about their right to appear before a grand jury, Trump took the opportunity to emphasize the timeline, stating he has been given a mere four days to report. His claim that this usually leads to an arrest and indictment echoes a familiar pattern of presenting himself as a victim of persecution.

May 11, 2023

This revelation comes on top of the existing state and federal charges in New York and Florida, as well as the ongoing election-interference investigation in Georgia. The mounting legal problems do not seem to dampen Trump’s ambitions for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Instead, he appears to use these challenges to present himself as a defiant figure, further solidifying his image as a strong leader fighting against the odds.

Throughout his political career, Trump has been no stranger to controversy and legal battles. Just last month, he was indicted on 37 federal felony counts in relation to accusations of illegally retaining classified documents at his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago. Despite these charges, he maintains his innocence, consistently pleading not guilty.

The pretrial conference for this case took place recently, where Trump’s lawyers pressed for an indefinite delay of the trial date. While the judge has not yet issued a decision on the matter, Trump’s legal team seems confident in leveraging the court system to their advantage, possibly in an attempt to buy time and sway public opinion.

January 8, 2021

Trump’s impeachment by the Democratic-led House for incitement of insurrection following the Capitol riot has only added fuel to the fire. Although he was acquitted in the Senate, Trump continues to exploit the events of January 6th, framing himself as a victim of political bias while downplaying his role in the escalation of tensions.

Special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation has honed in on Trump’s efforts and those of his allies to overturn the election results. This includes the role of lawyers pressuring for the overturning of results and the submission of false electoral certificates to Congress. Witnesses, including former Vice President Mike Pence and Trump’s lawyer Rudy Giuliani, have been questioned before a grand jury. Despite this scrutiny, Trump’s allies remain loyal, refusing to turn against him even in the face of legal repercussions.

News: Trump Faces Possible Indictment in Capitol Attack Investigation

As Trump navigates this legal quagmire, he continues to tap into his tried-and-tested strategy of rallying his supporters around him, portraying himself as a victim of a biased justice system and a target of political persecution. By framing himself as a warrior fighting against the establishment, Trump energizes his base, ensuring that his political ambitions remain alive and well, even amid the ongoing investigations.

It remains to be seen how these legal challenges will unfold and whether Trump’s fervent base of supporters will be enough to propel him to a potential presidential bid in 2024. However, one thing is clear: Trump’s ability to leverage bad news and turn it into a rallying cry is a testament to his enduring influence in American politics. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Tuesday July 18, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday July 18, 2023

The Struggles of Staying Home: Variants of Concern and Skyrocketing Interest Rates

November 30, 2021

In recent times, people have been facing multiple challenges that keep them confined to their homes. Two significant issues that have played a role in this situation are the emergence of Variants of Concern (VOC) during the COVID-19 pandemic and the sudden increase in interest rates, impacting variable rate mortgages. These circumstances have led individuals to prioritize financial stability over indulging in luxury and recreational activities like visiting restaurants, bars, movies, and vacations. Let’s explore the impact of these interconnected factors on people’s lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has witnessed the emergence of various variants of the virus. While most variants do not significantly alter the virus’s properties or its impact on communities, some Variants of Concern have raised alarms. These variants exhibit changes that affect crucial factors such as transmissibility, virulence, vaccine effectiveness, and diagnostic testing. Detecting and monitoring these variants is of utmost importance to prevent their rapid spread and devise appropriate strategies to contain the virus.

January 30, 2021

One such method used to identify VOC was through the testing of wastewater in Ottawa. However, due to limited funding, the rapid and cost-effective testing method for variants will soon cease. This decision has raised concerns among scientists and researchers who stress the importance of timely and frequent monitoring of variants. Identifying emerging VOC and estimating their growth within a community becomes increasingly challenging when testing frequency is low. It is vital to maintain robust monitoring systems to stay ahead of the ever-evolving COVID-19 virus.

January 27, 2022

In parallel, the recent surge in interest rates has significantly impacted homeowners with variable rate mortgages. The Bank of Canada’s consecutive interest rate hikes have left borrowers grappling with higher borrowing costs. This increase comes after a brief respite when interest rates remained steady, fueling a surge in home sales and prices reminiscent of the pandemic’s real estate boom. However, the central bank’s efforts to curb inflation have now placed borrowers under mounting pressure.

Variable-rate mortgage borrowers face the immediate burden of rising costs as more of their monthly payments are allocated towards interest rather than reducing the size of their loans. Consequently, the length of their loan repayment periods automatically extends to maintain steady payments. While some borrowers managed to make additional payments during the rate reprieve, the recent interest rate hikes will further stretch their amortization periods. As a result, borrowers will face higher monthly payments when their loans come up for renewal, leading to potential financial strain.

June 22, 2021

The impact of these rising interest rates is also evident in the housing market, particularly in major cities like Toronto. The market, once characterized by frenzied activity, has started to show signs of cooling. Home sales have decreased, reflecting buyers’ growing caution and concerns about future increases in interest rates. The once-enticing real estate landscape has now become a cause for hesitation and financial prudence.

These converging challenges have limited people’s mobility and hindered their ability to engage in leisurely pursuits. The combination of Variants of Concern and rising interest rates has reshaped priorities, pushing individuals to focus on financial stability rather than indulging in luxuries or non-essential activities. Restaurants, bars, movies, and vacations have taken a backseat as people adapt to the new reality, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and prudent decision-making.

As we navigate these challenging times, it is crucial to find a balance between safeguarding public health and maintaining economic stability. Timely monitoring and surveillance of COVID-19 variants, along with supportive measures to help borrowers cope with rising interest rates, will be essential in enabling individuals to regain a sense of normalcy. By addressing these concerns, we can strive to create a safer and more sustainable future, where people can confidently venture out from their homes without compromising their well-being or financial security. (AI)

Saturday July 1, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Globe & Mail – Saturday July 1, 2023

Trudeau’s Progressive Comfort Zone

January 12, 2022

When it comes to alliances, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seems to be more comfortable with progressive alliances and diversity groups than with military alliances. This observation becomes evident when examining his stance on various issues and his recent actions.

Trudeau has shown a strong commitment to fighting climate change and protecting the environment. During his visit to Iceland, he prioritized collaboration on climate action, emphasizing the need to protect the Arctic ice and oceans. He even visited a carbon capture and storage facility to explore green technology solutions. His government has allocated significant funds for the development of these technologies, showcasing his dedication to combating climate change.

News: Trudeau off to Iceland to meet Nordic leaders ahead of NATO, amid Arctic uncertainty  

July 14, 2022

On the other hand, when it comes to standing with Ukraine against a Russian-led invasion, Trudeau has adopted a cautious approach. He stated that Canada is monitoring the situation in Russia and emphasized the need to avoid fuelling Russian propaganda. While he acknowledged the importance of addressing Russia’s concerning behaviour, he expressed difficulties in collaborating with them due to their invasion of Ukraine and war crimes committed in the region. This indicates a reluctance to take a strong stance against Russian aggression.

Trudeau’s priorities also seem to lie in domestic issues such as cannabis legalization, child care, indigenous reconciliation, and LGBTQ rights. These are areas where he has demonstrated a proactive approach, making significant policy changes and working towards progressive reforms. His commitment to diversity and inclusion is commendable, but it highlights his focus on domestic affairs rather than military alliances.

Furthermore, Trudeau’s willingness to support Sweden’s accession into NATO and his emphasis on ratifying their membership demonstrate his preference for progressive alliances rather than military ones. While he actively promotes NATO expansion, his focus seems to be on countries that align with Canada’s values and principles rather than those involved in more contentious international conflicts.

News: ‘We need to increase our influence’: Joly wants to increase Canada’s impact on the world stage  

February 9, 2016

The leaked Pentagon document revealing Trudeau’s acknowledgment that Canada would never meet NATO’s targets for defence spending adds further weight to the argument. This admission reflects a lack of commitment to military alliances and raises concerns about Canada’s preparedness to fulfill its obligations within such alliances.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appears to be more comfortable and proactive when it comes to progressive alliances, diversity groups, and domestic issues like fighting climate change, cannabis legalization, child care, indigenous reconciliation, and LGBTQ rights. His caution in taking a firm stance against Russian aggression in Ukraine and his acknowledgment of Canada’s military deficiencies indicate a certain discomfort and hesitancy in military alliances. While his progressive agenda is admirable, it is important for a leader to strike a balance between domestic priorities and global security concerns, especially in an increasingly complex and volatile international landscape. (AI)