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2023-17

Tuesday October 17, 2023

October 17, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

The Liberal-NDP coalition in Canada is teetering due to their growing dispute over pharmacare, highlighting the inherent instability of coalition governments shaped by the parties' distinct priorities.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday October 17, 2023

The Inevitable Unraveling of Coalition Governments

January 24, 2023

Coalition governments, formed when two or more political parties join forces to secure power and maintain stability, are often seen as a compromise for the greater good. Yet, history has shown us that such arrangements are not built to last forever. The recent developments in the partnership between the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP) in Canada serve as a stark reminder of this inherent fragility.

The initial optimism that surrounded the Liberal-NDP coalition seemed like a promising harbinger of cooperation in Canadian politics. However, as time has progressed, it’s become apparent that this alliance, which sought to assure cooperation, has instead become a liability for both parties. The primary catalyst for this shift in dynamics is the issue of pharmacare, a central concern for the NDP.

At their policy convention in Hamilton, the NDP drew a line in the sand, passing an emergency resolution that firmly demands the Liberals commit to a “universal, comprehensive and entirely public pharmacare program.” The New Democrats’ resolve in this matter is undeniable, and they have made it clear that weak legislation will not suffice. The NDP’s insistence on robust pharmacare legislation has put the coalition’s unity in jeopardy.

Analysis: Jagmeet Singh’s election results have been terrible. Here are 5 reasons why the NDP wants him as leader anyway

April 8, 2022

The implications of this growing schism are far-reaching. Should the NDP decide to withdraw their support for the coalition over the pharmacare issue, it would undoubtedly transform pharmacare into a decisive “ballot-box issue” in the next election. This not only illustrates the internal divisions within the coalition but also underscores how coalition governments can unravel over time due to the differing priorities and agendas of their member parties.

June 13, 2019

The struggle over pharmacare is a clear example of how coalition governments can become victims of their own success. The Liberals and the NDP entered into this arrangement in March 2022 to ensure the survival of the minority government until June 2025. However, it’s essential to remember that such agreements, while initially beneficial for securing power, can become precarious when parties with different policy priorities seek to maintain their distinct identities.

The current standoff between the Liberals and the NDP on pharmacare highlights a broader issue in coalition politics. The partners might find common ground initially, but over time, the unique priorities, electoral strategies, and party identities resurface. As a result, the very cooperation that helped form the government becomes the source of its instability and potential downfall.

News: Jagmeet Singh receives 81% support in confidence vote after defending deal with Liberals

October 23, 2019

In the case of the Liberal-NDP coalition, it’s essential to recognize that the NDP views pharmacare as a pivotal issue that distinguishes them from their Liberal counterparts. While the Liberals had promised a national pharmacare program in the 2019 election, their silence on this matter in the 2021 election has only exacerbated the divide.

As the New Democrats refocus their efforts on recruiting candidates, emphasizing healthcare, and addressing the rising cost of living, it’s evident that they’re preparing for an election where healthcare will be a central concern. The coalition’s future remains uncertain, but the pharmacare dispute underscores the inherent difficulties of maintaining a stable partnership between two parties with differing visions.

The Liberal-NDP coalition’s tumultuous journey over pharmacare is a stark reminder that coalition governments are not built to last indefinitely. These arrangements, formed to ensure stability and cooperation, can become marred by the reemergence of party-specific priorities and agendas. As the coalition struggles to reconcile these differences, the inevitable unravelling of their partnership serves as a cautionary tale for future coalitions in Canada and around the world. (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:

https://mackaycartoons.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-1017-NAT.mp4

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2023-17, bloc quebecois, Canada, coalition, Conservative, Jagmeet Singh, Justin Trudeau, leadership, Liberal, NDP, Pierre Poilievre, procreate, race, Yves-François Blanchet

Sunday October 15, 2023

October 15, 2023 by Graeme MacKay


Finally, Some Cartoonist Convention Time

It comes as no surprise to anyone who’s been paying attention that certain simple everyday pleasures we once took for granted have now become extinct relics of the past. The print edition of newspapers has been on this decline for years, resembling a slowly draining bathtub that eventually spirals into the abyss. As the last drops of this once-thriving industry slip away into the sewer, thousands of dedicated newspaper professionals find themselves in the throes of a livelihood crisis that has become all too familiar.

Better times, bigger staff, at 44 Frid

For the fortunate few of us who remain in this business, we’re acutely aware of the inevitable outcome we face. For decades, newspaper magnates grappled with the challenge of adapting to the internet era, knowing that it would catapult us into the future, leaving traditional print media behind, much like horse-drawn carriages of old. They had three decades to craft a successful transition to the digital realm that would persuade owners, shareholders, advertisers, and readers to embrace a virtual product superior to the physical paper.

Despite promises of cutting-edge websites, millions poured into computerized cross-media publishing systems, metrics for tracking web traffic, and enhancements like video content and the ever-loved pop-up ads (note the sarcasm), the average daily newspaper website seemed to dazzle only its creators – a trend that continues to this day. Unless it’s one of the international media giants with the resources to invest heavily in state-of-the-art technology and employ well-compensated journalists to create engaging and insightful content, subscribers are likely to face the same frustrations with regional daily websites. Expect the predictability of clunky interfaces where ancient news articles bury the latest content, or the enduring annoyance of resetting passwords for reasons unknown.

If you attempt to seek human assistance, prepare to be greeted with frustration – endless canned instrumental music and a robotic voice informing you that “there are zero customers ahead of you in the queue.”

My last day before the building closed

Just a few weeks ago, my local newspaper, The Hamilton Spectator, closed its physical office after 177 years of operation. While we still deliver daily news both in print and online, our staff now operates primarily in the virtual realm. We attempt to replicate the camaraderie and collaboration of a traditional newsroom by gathering in a public space once a week. However, the pandemic, beginning in March 2020, forced us out of our office on Frid Street.

For 23 years, I created my editorial cartoons within the confines of our physical office. I had the opportunity to engage in conversations with reporters covering city hall, sports, education, health, and transit. I attended editorial board meetings with mayoral candidates, premiers, ministers, and influential figures in the community. All of that is now a thing of the past.

Despite various attempts to support the struggling newspaper industry and engage in battles with tech giants over compensating news sources on social media platforms, it’s clear that we are witnessing the final days of the physical newspaper.

Retirement caricatures of the Spec’s photo team, Barry Gray, Scott Gardner, John Rennison, Gary Yokoyama. Photo by Cathie Coward, the Spec’s only remaining photographer.

But alas, we adapt, holding our heads high and thinking beyond the dark clouds above us. For years I’ve been attending gatherings of editorial cartoonists throughout Canada and the United States. These events are where I go to review with colleagues the good and bad developments of our times, to learn, and re-energize. There is no other better venue for such a tiny group of folks with similar passions and livelihoods to gather and celebrate.  This very website has chronicled so many of them going back in time: Sacramento 2018, Toronto 2016, Havana 2014, Hamilton 2010, Banff 2008, Washington DC 2007, and this gathering in 2023, despite missing some old familiar friends and faces was robust in numbers giving the sense that editorial cartooning is alive and well despite the challenges. This convention was perhaps my most therapeutic professional gathering ever. 

I went on a trip to California from October 7th to October 12th, 2023, to attend my first Editorial Cartoonist convention in five years. On Thursday morning, I arrived in San Francisco around noon to attend the 2023 convention of the American Association of Editorial Cartoonists in combination with the Association of Canadian Cartoonists.

Me, Terry “Aislin” Mosher, Rod Emerson, Guy “Bado” Badeaux; Photo by Brian Gable

My tribute to the great Brian Gable, in James Gillray style

I was on the same flight out of Toronto with Terry Mosher, Brian Gable, and ACC President Wes Tyrell. The four of us shared a cab into the city and dropped off our bags at the hotel before the check-in time at 3pm. The recently retired Globe & Mail editorial cartoonist Brian Gable and I decided to have a dim sum lunch in Chinatown. We walked along Grant Ave, tried some delicious soup dumplings, won tons, and spring rolls. As we continued walking, we passed through Chinatown and reached a big Catholic cathedral, Saints Peter ann Paul Church and a lovely Washington Square in front of it. We also got to see Blue Angel fighter jets practicing for the weekend air show. The weather was surprisingly hot, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit and clear skies. We headed back towards the hotel, exploring the streets and enjoying the sight of cable cars. In the evening, there was a reception at the hotel where I had nice conversations with several talented people, including Wes Rowell, Paul Berge, Ted Rall, Jack Ohman, and Guy Badeaux, among others.

Me at the Monticello Winery, Napa

On Friday, I spent most of the day on a Napa wine tour from 9am to 5:30pm. We made a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge to take some pictures. I was accompanied by Marci Brane and Sarah Alex from the Herb Block Foundation, cartoonist David G. Brown, Paul Berge with Chris Pierangeli, Deb Milbrath with David “Wing” Bruce, and Mike Sicilia, our guide, and an old friend of Jack Ohman who I first met in Sacramento in 2018, and who I now call a friend. We drove along the El Camino real road through Sonoma and our first stop was Beringer winery, which is known as the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley. We had an outdoor wine tasting of three of their wines and enjoyed a splendid charcuterie platter. After that, we went to the Oxbow Public Market in Napa for lunch, where we chose to have Mexican food with the Herblock team, Mike, and David. Our final winery was Monticello, where we visited their storage facility and had several wine tastings. We then headed back to San Francisco, which took about an hour and a half. I had expected Napa to be more visually appealing, but the dry fields of beige grass were quite overwhelming. If I had to choose, I would say that the Niagara region, despite not having the selection of quality wines that Napa boasts, definitely has more attractive vineyard surroundings. We were dropped off near the Cartoon museum for the Friday meet and greet, where I had the opportunity to chat with several talented cartoonists, including Ben Sargent, Steve Stegelin, Dale Cummings, Tim Campbell, Jeff Bell, Rod Emmerson, Daryl Cagle, Jack Ohman, Matt Davies, Ann Telnaes, Steve Greenberg, and Matt Wuerker. Jack Ohman welcomed us and spoke briefly, passionately, and as always eloquently, about the challenges faced by the print media. We continued the evening with beers at the Irish Bank pub behind our hotel, the Triton.

Saturday was our panel day. I started the day by taking a 5km walk to the higher points near the hotel, capturing some beautiful photos of the city under a cloudless sky with warm temperatures. I arrived a bit late to the panel discussions and missed the presentation on Mosher’s COVID book and the proposal by Christian Vachon to hold the next gathering in Montreal. However, I did get to listen to a fascinating talk by feminist cartoonist Trina Robbins about her long career. She was a pioneer for women in cartooning and bravely challenged the male-dominated industry.

From Trina Robbin’s presentation

Her presentation was followed by an inspiring workshop by the great illustrator Steve Brodner, who discussed different approaches to caricature. He emphasized the importance of making our work matter and fighting against oppressive forces and biased editorial practices. During the intermission, I had a great conversation with Steve Breen, the long-term cartoonist at the San Diego Tribune, who shared valuable tips on connecting with fans for future newsletters and subscription services. Too brief a time was spent chatting with and praising my new favourite editorial cartoonist, Ed Wexler. The day continued with a fun presentation by Kevin “KAL” Kallaugher, featuring several artists doing unique things outside of their regular editorial cartooning gigs. We then had some free time to explore around the hotel, and some of us went back to the Irish pub or looked for a pharmacy with Wes, Guy, Dale, and Eric Shansby.

Wes Tyrell and Brian Gable announce the honourary Canuck award to Rod Emerson

Chinatown dinner L-R: Russ Hodin, Steve Stegelin, Mark Fiore, Jack Ohman; Kevin (KAL) Kallaugher, me, Nick Anderson, Matt Davies, Ben Sargent and David G. Brown

The Saturday reception took place at the Book Club. Plaques were given out for the Rex Babin award for local cartooning, which went to Joel Pett. Inkspot recognitions were also awarded to organizer Mary Ellen Burns and cartoonist writers Mike Peterson and Alan Gardner – Find Mike’s own, much more thorough summary of the convention here. Our Canadian contingent recognized Guy Badeaux and Dale Cummings with the Townsie awards, and the Honorary Canuck award went to Rod Emmerson from New Zealand. For dinner that night, I had the pleasure of dining with Nick Anderson, Matt Davies, Ben Sargent, David Browne, Steve Stegelin, and Russ Hodin. We were joined by Jack Ohman, Mark Fiore, Kevin Kallaugher, and Matt Wuerker.

Sunday started with a breakfast hosted by Scott Burns. I had the opportunity to sit next to Clay Jones and across from John Auchter and David Brown. Later on, we were joined by Cullum Rogers, whose charming North Carolina accent became a source of endearment for the rest of our trip.

We said goodbye to our colleagues and stored our bags in Rod Emerson’s room before heading to the Presidio to catch the air show and visit the Walt Disney family museum (my Google review.) The museum showcases the evolution of Walt Disney, Mickey Mouse, and other Disney characters, as well as the technology used in cell animation films. We also enjoyed exhibits on Disney’s amusement park and a display of editorial cartoons marking Walt Disney’s death. Outside the museum, we watched the blue angels perform in the foggy sky over the Pacific.

Wes Tyrell and I at Pigeon Point, California

At 4:00, Wes and I picked up our rental car from the airport after returning to the hotel to retrieve our bags. Thanks to Mary Ellen Burns and her crew of volunteers, Larry and Rick, we had transportation arranged. We drove north over the Golden Gate Bridge, stopping briefly, before having a delicious bbq dinner at Wes’ very cool friend Elijah’s house in San Raphael. The next morning, we had coffee with Elijah and went for a climbing hike before brunch in Fairfax. We explored the redwood trees at Samuel P. Taylor State Park and continued towards the coast through Point Reyes. The dreary rain changed our plans at Bodega Bay, so we headed inland and stayed overnight at a cozy Marriott in Santa Rosa, enjoying delicious Thai cuisine. The Charles Schulz Museum shuttered until Thursday – boo. Our journey took us to Stinson Beach, where we had a laugh at Wes’ expense (after leaving his jacket and passport back in the Marin Lodge) (my Google Review) and met a balloon artist from Wales. After returning to Fairfax to meet Mark Fiore, we decided to head south to Half Moon Bay, where we stayed at the Half Moon Bay lodge (my Google review) and dined at Cameron’s British Pub (my Google review.) We had a pleasant night and I took advantage of the heated pool and jacuzzi in the morning. Before departing, we enjoyed breakfast and continued our drive along Highway 1, stopping at Pigeon Point Lighthouse for some photos.

The gathering of editorial cartoonists in San Francisco was an invigorating experience. We engaged in lively discussions about the art of cartooning, shared our experiences, and gained insights into the influential role of political cartoons in shaping public opinion. We also addressed the challenges in today’s ever-changing media landscape.

Our collective exploration of art for social commentary and activism was set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s beauty. Even amidst our road trip with Wes Tyrell, we found moments of serenity in nature, though the weight of conflicts in Ukraine and the ongoing Israel-Hamas strife loomed large. Yet, as a community, we remain resolute, rising above the darkness and looking to the future with unwavering determination.

Santa Rosa to Santa Cruz: Our road tripo
Santa Rosa to Santa Cruz: Our road tripo
John Auchter, Me, Maryellen Burns, David G. Burns
John Auchter, Me, Maryellen Burns, David G. Burns
IMG_4859
Me and the great Scott Burns
Me and the great Scott Burns
Blue Angels practice over God
Blue Angels practice over God
Trito Hotel meet and greet
Trito Hotel meet and greet
Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Bridge
Me and Guy
Me and Guy
Spectacular views and spectacular weather
Spectacular views and spectacular weather
Canadian delegation talks business at the Irish Bank
Canadian delegation talks business at the Irish Bank
Me, the always entertaining Eric Shansby, and Wes Tyrell
Me, the always entertaining Eric Shansby, and Wes Tyrell
Me with heart in Union Square
Me with heart in Union Square
Me and our host, President Jack Ohman
Me and our host, President Jack Ohman
Cable car!
Cable car!
Me with David Brown, John Auchter, Scott Burns, and Cullum Rogers
Me with David Brown, John Auchter, Scott Burns, and Cullum Rogers
Me, Cullum, Wes getting maudlin at the Walt Disney obit cartoons exhibit
Me, Cullum, Wes getting maudlin at the Walt Disney obit cartoons exhibit
Wes in the cactus
Wes in the cactus
New age time at Elijah's place, San Raphael
New age time at Elijah’s place, San Raphael
Redwood Trees next to Wes
Redwood Trees next to Wes
Wes takes a break in Larspur, CA
Wes takes a break in Larspur, CA
Me and Wes catch up with Mark Fiore in Fairfax
Me and Wes catch up with Mark Fiore in Fairfax
At Half Moon Bay Lodge
At Half Moon Bay Lodge
Gorgeous Pigeon Point
Gorgeous Pigeon Point

 

Posted in: Cartooning Tagged: 2023-17, aaec, ACC, acec, California, convention, editorial cartooning, hotel, restaurant, san francisco

Saturday October 14, 2023

October 14, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

The relentless conflict in Gaza places both Palestinian and Israeli civilians in a dire predicament. As Hamas, responsible for numerous deadly acts against Israel and hostage-taking, triggers a planned offensive by Israel's IDF in northern Gaza City, it is inevitable that innocent civilians will suffer the repercussions.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 14, 2023

Middle East Conflict Shifts to Ground Operations, Leaving Innocent Civilians in the Crossfire

The situation in the Middle East has taken a concerning turn, with Israel’s announcement of ground operations in the Gaza Strip, transitioning from an air campaign to a risky and complex ground offensive. Regrettably, the greatest casualties in this ongoing crisis continue to be the innocent civilians of Palestine and Israel, who are enduring unimaginable hardship. The pursuit of peace in the region remains a distant and elusive goal.

The announcement of ground operations by Israel in the Gaza Strip underscores the gravity of the situation. As a response to Hamas’s recent attacks in southern Israel, this shift further exacerbates the suffering of the people caught in the crossfire. In an attempt to mitigate the looming threat, Israel issued an evacuation order, compelling over a million people to leave the northern half of the Gaza Strip within a mere 24 hours, a move met with apprehension by many who were unsure of their fate.

News: How Hamas Overran Southern Israel and Killed 1,300  

July 25, 2014

The situation on the ground is perilous, with Israeli forces targeting Palestinian rocket crews and seeking information about hostages. The tragic loss of innocent lives and the displacement of thousands evoke concerns of an impending humanitarian disaster. The reports of casualties and injuries, including women, children, and the elderly, on both sides of the conflict, highlight the urgent need for international intervention.

The evacuation order, which includes the densely populated Gaza City, has created confusion among civilians and aid workers who are already grappling with Israeli airstrikes and a territory-wide power blackout. The UN’s call for safe areas for civilians in Gaza is a step in the right direction, as it is crucial to protect the lives of innocent people who are trapped in the midst of this conflict.

News: Palestinians flee northern Gaza before expected Israeli ground invasion 

The escalation of violence and loss of life in the region is a grim reminder of the need for a peaceful resolution. The world cannot afford to stand by as innocent civilians bear the brunt of political failures and diplomatic impasses. The pursuit of peace should be paramount, and international leaders must redouble their efforts to end this cycle of violence and suffering. (AI)

 

Posted in: International Tagged: 2023-17, children, Gaza, Hamas, IDF, International, Israel, middle east, mideast, Palestine, was

Friday October 13, 2023

October 13, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Developers whom stood to profit from Doug Ford's Greenbelt development decisions are now anxious as an RCMP investigation unfolds, potentially exposing their wrongdoing, marking a dramatic turn of events for those once favoured in the scandal.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday October 13, 2023

Welcoming the RCMP Investigation: A Turn of Events for Doug Ford’s Greenbelt Developers

September 26, 2023

In a dramatic twist, an RCMP investigation has been launched into Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s controversial plan to open up the Greenbelt for development. Developers who once stood to profit from Ford’s decisions are now anxiously awaiting the outcome, and for those of us who value transparency and accountability in government, this investigation is a welcomed development.

The announcement by the RCMP follows a referral from the Ontario Provincial Police, marking a significant step in the pursuit of justice. The Sensitive and International Investigations (SII) unit, responsible for handling cases that threaten Canada’s political, economic, and social integrity, will be leading the probe. This unit specializes in political investigations, examining elected officials on allegations of fraud, financial crimes, corruption, and breach of trust. Given the gravity of the situation, it is imperative that this investigation unfolds diligently and impartially.

News: Ontario Greenbelt: Canada police probe Doug Ford land deal  

September 22, 2023

The Greenbelt, a protected natural area, was at the centre of controversy last year when the province decided to remove land from its protection in a bid to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. This move faced public outrage and resulted in the resignation of two ministers, as well as investigations by the integrity commissioner and the auditor general. Their findings revealed a flawed process that seemed to favour certain developers, raising questions about potential wrongdoing.

The criminal probe is a significant step forward in seeking answers and justice. The auditor general’s report highlighted that developers could stand to benefit by $8.3 billion from the land swap. While Premier Ford has maintained his confidence that nothing criminal took place, the investigations uncovered a tangled web of questionable actions by government officials.

One focal point of the investigations has been Ryan Amato, the chief of staff to the housing minister at the time. The commissioner’s report and the auditor general’s findings have raised concerns about Amato’s interactions with developers. His resignation in the wake of these findings is a testament to the seriousness of the situation.

The decision to bring the RCMP into the investigation is a critical one, given the need to ensure that the process is free from any perceived conflicts of interest. Premier Ford’s commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation is a step in the right direction.

Opinion: Here’s why an RCMP criminal probe makes Doug Ford’s Greenbelt nightmare so much worse  

December 10, 2022

The opposition, particularly the NDP and the Green Party, welcomes the investigation as a means of obtaining more answers and accountability. They argue that the people of Ontario deserve to know the truth behind these actions, which have the potential to significantly impact the province’s future.

The involvement of the RCMP underscores the gravity of the situation and the need to get to the bottom of what transpired. It is crucial to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that public officials act in the best interests of the people they serve. As the investigation unfolds, we must all keep a close watch on the proceedings and trust in the process to deliver a fair and just outcome.

In the end, the RCMP’s involvement in the Greenbelt land swap scandal is a beacon of hope for those who believe in the importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. It is a chance for justice to prevail, and for the public to have confidence that their interests are protected. The unfolding events serve as a reminder that no one is above the law, and that our democratic institutions must be safeguarded from any undue influence or wrongdoing. (AI)

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2023-17, corruption, Defund the Police, developers, Doug Ford, greenbelt, investigation, Ontario, police, RCMP

Thursday October 5, 2023

October 5, 2023 by Graeme MacKay
Amidst the disgraceful incidents involving legislative speakers Kevin McCarthy, Anthony Rota, and John Bercow, Greg Fergus's election as the first person of colour to hold the position of Speaker of the House of Commons in Canada marking a promising shift towards inclusive and accountable parliamentary leadership.

October 5, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday October 5, 2023

The Speaker’s Oath Betrayed: A Trilogy of Disgrace

In the grand halls of parliamentary democracy, the role of the Speaker is sacrosanct. They are meant to be impartial arbiters, guardians of decorum, and champions of justice within the legislative arena. Sadly, recent history has witnessed the disgraceful fall from grace of three individuals who held this esteemed office: Kevin McCarthy, Anthony Rota, and John Bercow.

Analysis: MPs are worried about Parliament’s reputation — and a new Speaker won’t fix things  

Kevin McCarthy: A Short-Lived Stint with Self-Interest

Kevin McCarthy’s brief tenure as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives was marked by a glaring lack of statesmanship. In a time of political polarization and pressing issues, McCarthy’s pursuit of personal agendas took precedence over the welfare of the nation. His attempt to fund the government with a bill laden with spending cuts and border policies was a textbook example of partisanship overriding national interest.

When his initial bill failed, McCarthy’s willingness to compromise came too late, exposing the consequences of political brinkmanship. The chaos that ensued ultimately led to his removal from office, marking the first time in U.S. history that a Speaker was ousted by their own House. McCarthy’s legacy will forever be marred by his failure to uphold the noble principles of the Speaker’s role – impartiality, fairness, and putting the nation’s interests before party politics.

Anaylsis: McCarthy’s Extraordinary Downfall Reflects an Ungovernable G.O.P.  

Anthony Rota: A Gaping Blind Spot in Judgment

September 27, 2023

Anthony Rota’s tenure as Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada will be remembered for a grave lapse in judgment. His decision to honuor Yaroslav Hunka, a man later revealed to have served in the Nazi Waffen-SS, exposed a shocking blind spot in Rota’s understanding of history and sensitivity.

Rota’s initial praise of Hunka as a “war hero” was not only inaccurate but also deeply offensive to those who suffered at the hands of the Nazi regime. His failure to conduct due diligence before introducing Hunka tarnished the sanctity of his office and cast a shadow on the entire Canadian parliamentary system. The subsequent calls for his resignation were inevitable and well-deserved.

John Bercow: A Legacy Tarnished by Bullying and Denial

John Bercow’s legacy as Speaker of the House of Commons of the UK will forever be tainted by allegations of bullying and harassment. His tenure was characterized by reports of mistreatment from former staff members, with Bercow denying these claims and attempting to suppress their voices.

Even in the face of damning evidence and an independent investigation that upheld multiple allegations against him, Bercow remained defiant, dismissing the findings and casting aspersions on the integrity of the process. His refusal to accept responsibility and his attempts to undermine the credibility of the Independent Expert Panel only deepened the stain on his legacy.

News: Former speaker John Bercow ‘to star in The Traitors US’  

The role of a Speaker demands the highest standards of integrity, impartiality, and accountability. Bercow’s behaviour not only failed to meet these standards but also cast a long shadow over the institution he was meant to serve.

These three individuals – Kevin McCarthy, Anthony Rota, and John Bercow – serve as stark reminders of the importance of upholding the Speaker’s oath with unwavering commitment. Their failures have not only damaged their own legacies but also eroded the trust and respect that should be inherent in parliamentary leadership.

As we celebrate the election of Greg Fergus, the first person of colour to assume the Speakership in Canadian history, let us hope that his tenure will be characterized by a return to the noble principles of impartiality, fairness, and service to the nation. The disgraceful chapters authored by McCarthy, Rota, and Bercow should serve as cautionary tales for all those entrusted with the role of Speaker, reminding them that the office is far greater than any individual’s personal ambitions or shortcomings. (AI)

 

Posted in: Canada, USA Tagged: 2023-17, Anthony Rota, Canada, Congress, disgrace, Parliament, Speaker of the House, therapy, UK, USA
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