In an unprecedented move, all 13 Canadian provincial and territorial leaders have descended upon Washington, D.C., in a united front against the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. This diplomatic mission underscores the urgency and gravity of the economic challenges facing Canada, as these tariffs threaten to strain the economies of both nations. While the situation highlights a significant moment of unity among the provinces, it simultaneously reveals a glaring absence of decisive federal leadership in Ottawa.
The federal government’s efforts have been criticized as ineffective, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau seemingly preoccupied with international photo opportunities while crucial negotiations unfold. In this vacuum of leadership, the Premiers have stepped into the breach, advocating for Canada’s economic interests. Their presence in Washington is not only symbolic of Canada’s unity but also a testament to the critical nature of the issue at hand. This collaborative effort is necessary, as it demonstrates to both American lawmakers and the international community that Canada is resolute in its pursuit of fair trade practices.
However, the involvement of Ontario Premier Doug Ford raises questions about potential motivations beyond national interest. As the Chair of the Council of the Federation, Ford has taken on a prominent role, projecting himself as a defender of Canadian interests. Yet, this assertive display coincides with a provincial election campaign back home, leading some to speculate whether Ford’s actions are driven by genuine concern for national welfare or a calculated bid to bolster his political standing as “Captain Canada.”
Critics argue that Ford’s presence in Washington serves dual purposes: addressing the pressing issue of tariffs while simultaneously capitalizing on the situation to enhance his re-election prospects. The optics of standing up to Trump and championing Canadian unity could resonate with voters, potentially positioning Ford as a strong leader capable of navigating international challenges. However, this approach risks overshadowing the collaborative spirit intended by the Premiers’ joint mission.
The reader comments from the article reflect a deep divide in public opinion. Some view the Premiers’ efforts as a necessary response to weak federal leadership, while others criticize the potential for fragmented diplomacy. The concern is that multiple voices in Washington could inadvertently provide opportunities for the U.S. administration to exploit divisions within Canada.
Despite these criticisms, the Premiers’ mission to Washington is a critical endeavour. It highlights the strength of Canada’s provinces in advocating for national interests when federal leadership is lacking. While Ford’s motivations may be questioned, the collective effort remains vital in conveying the importance of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship.
The Premiers’ presence in Washington is both a necessary and strategic response to the current economic challenges. It reflects the resilience and unity of Canada in the face of adversity. However, political leaders must remain vigilant to ensure that their actions serve the interests of the nation as a whole, rather than individual political aspirations. As Canada navigates these uncharted waters, it is imperative that unity and genuine collaboration remain at the forefront of diplomatic efforts.
What, another Captain Canada cartoon, you ask? Absolutely! When an opportunity like this presents itself, it’s my duty as an editorial cartoonist to spotlight an opportunistic Premier who’s called an unnecessary election right in the middle of a national crisis. Doug Ford’s attempt to cosplay “Captain Canada” is too rich to resist, especially when it seems aimed at diverting voters’ attention – which seems to be working too nicely, given the polls. Oh, you bet I’ll be taking full advantage of this moment!
So was it all just a show? The recent trip by Canada’s premiers to Washington had all the makings of a grand performance. For the first time, all 13 provincial and territorial leaders, known collectively as the Council of the Federation, ventured outside the country to tackle the tariffs slapped on us by U.S. President Donald Trump. It’s a big deal to get this many leaders together for such a cause, and it certainly highlights the urgency of the situation.
But was it more flash than substance? The meeting at the White House with senior officials felt a bit like a staged event. Sure, it’s nice to have a seat at the children’s table, but the real power sits with Trump, whose been busy meeting with billionaires and fellow royalty… like the King of Jordan. It seems embarrassing that the leaders of the U.S.’s closest ally and biggest trading partner couldn’t get more than a crackers and tap water session.
Then there’s Doug Ford, Ontario’s premier. He’s taken on the role of “Captain Canada” in this saga, which is raising eyebrows. With an election back home, some see his prominent role as a political move to boost his image. While it’s important for Canada to show unity, there’s a risk that personal politics might overshadow the mission.
In a cartoon, Ford as “Captain Canada” could be standing strong with a maple leaf shield among the premiers, capturing the mix of leadership and political theatre in this diplomatic effort.
At the end of the day, the trip shows that when federal leadership seems absent, the provinces are willing to step up. Whether it was all worth it is still up for debate, but at least it highlights the need for Canada to stick together in these tough times.
Mark your calendars—election day is on February 27, 2025. Let’s make sure we all step up and participate in shaping the future of our province!
Please enjoy the February 13, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Posts come out every Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!
Doug Ford’s Abysmal Healthcare Performance in Ontario
September 26, 2024
Healthcare in Ontario has been a hot topic for years, and under Doug Ford’s leadership, the debate has only heated up. As election promises flood in from all parties, each claiming to fix the family doctor shortage and other issues, it’s important to examine what the current government has done—and hasn’t done—about healthcare.
Doug Ford’s time in office has seen plenty of criticism for how healthcare has been handled. Emergency rooms are closing more often, especially in rural areas, leaving people with fewer options when they need urgent care. The problem of finding family doctors has only grown, with millions more Ontarians expected to lose their family doctor soon. For people like Louise Lee and her family, this means a constant struggle to find basic medical care.
Instead of focusing on these urgent healthcare needs, Ford’s government has been accused of chasing short-term, flashy policies. Expanding beer sales in convenience stores seemed to take priority over real healthcare reform, raising questions about what truly matters to this administration.
Privatization efforts have also worried many. By shifting funding towards private providers, there’s a risk that healthcare could become less accessible and affordable, potentially leading to a system where only those who can pay get the best care.
Promises to end hallway medicine have yet to materialize, with overcrowded hospitals still a common issue. This failure to deliver on key promises is part of a larger pattern of unmet commitments.
March 1, 2023
While appointing Dr. Jane Philpott to oversee primary care access was a positive step, it doesn’t address the bigger issues without a full strategy in place.
As the election approaches, political parties are offering solutions to Ontario’s healthcare problems. Bonnie Crombie’s Liberals want to bring in 3,100 family doctors by 2029, spending $3.1 billion. Doug Ford’s Conservatives plan to create 305 new primary care teams to help two million more Ontarians, with $1.8 billion in funding. Marit Stiles and the NDP promise to recruit 3,500 new doctors, spending $4.05 billion—the boldest plan of all.
These promises are supported by additional federal funding, with Justin Trudeau’s government committing $11.4 billion over 10 years to Ontario’s healthcare. This money aims to support team-based care models, which could make the system more efficient.
But there’s plenty of doubt. How will these parties find all the new doctors they promise? Can they really fix the problems that have been around for decades?
The truth is, Ontario’s healthcare system has been declining for years, and it’s not just Ford’s fault. Long-standing issues like underfunding, an aging population, and workforce challenges have all played a part. Our healthcare system struggles to keep up with modern demands.
Election promises alone won’t bring the big changes needed. We need a long-term plan, backed by solid policies and cooperation across political lines, to truly improve Ontario’s healthcare. This plan must focus on fair access, updated infrastructure, and fixing systemic problems.
January 27, 2021
As voters prepare to make their choice, it’s important to look closely at what all parties are promising. Doug Ford’s record on healthcare shows many challenges, and while some new proposals give hope, they need to be realistic and impactful. Ontario’s healthcare system needs more than quick fixes or campaign talk; it requires a real commitment to lasting improvement. Only then can we hope to turn things around and build a healthcare system that works for everyone in Ontario.
Ontario’s Election – Continued: Ford Focus
I don’t think you have to be from Ontario to understand it. Public health care is undergoing significant challenges not just in this province, but across Canada and around the world where universal healthcare is crumbling. The struggles with doctor and nursing shortages, long wait times for procedures, and overcrowded emergency rooms are issues that many regions are grappling with, not just Doug Ford’s Ontario.
And let’s be real, if politicians want to brand themselves as superheroes, editorial cartoonists are definitely going to play along! I keep saying it, but we are facing an unnecessary election in Ontario right now. Just like President Trump has a knack for drawing attention to himself, Doug Ford seems to be trying to distract voters from his own record by shifting focus to Trump. Honestly, leave the Trump distractions to the Feds, Doug, and focus on defending your own record!
This piece took me back to those classic Superman episodes, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed putting it together. And if you’re a voter in Ontario, don’t be part of the apathetic 57% who didn’t bother to cast a ballot last time! It’s so important to get informed and make your voice heard. Mark your calendars—election day is on February 27, 2025. Let’s make sure we all step up and participate in shaping the future of our province!
Please enjoy the February 12, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Posts come out every Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!
Trump’s Steel Tariffs: A Distraction from Ontario’s Real Issues
In the latest international spotlight, President Donald Trump has once again captured attention with his announcement of a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports. While such a move fits Trump’s pattern of disruption, it also highlights a troubling diversion from the pressing provincial issues here in Ontario.
The truth is, these tariffs fall squarely within federal jurisdiction. Negotiating trade agreements and handling international relations are tasks for the federal government. Yet, the overwhelming focus on Trump’s tariffs effectively steals the spotlight from vital provincial concerns that demand our immediate attention.
Healthcare in Ontario is in dire need of reform. Endless wait times in emergency rooms, a shortage of family doctors, and strained mental health services require urgent action. Ontarians deserve a healthcare system that meets their needs promptly and efficiently, not one overshadowed by international trade theatrics.
Education, too, is suffering. Underfunded schools, overcrowded classrooms, and outdated curriculums directly impact our youth’s future. Addressing these challenges demands thoughtful policy-making and investment, not distractions from political drama on the international stage.
Affordability remains a critical concern for many Ontarians. From soaring housing prices to the rising cost of living, these hardships hit home and require immediate action. Solutions won’t be found in Washington; they must be crafted and implemented right here in Ontario.
Moreover, provincial scandals and governance issues need transparency and accountability. The electorate deserves leaders focused on resolving internal challenges and maintaining integrity, rather than getting embroiled in international posturing.
While the focus on Trump’s tariffs provides a convenient narrative for leaders like Doug Ford to rally around external threats, it does a disservice to Ontarians who expect their leaders to prioritize and address the issues impacting their daily lives. This strategy might temporarily shift the narrative, but it also presents an opportunity for opposition parties to emphasize the importance of addressing provincial issues that directly affect voters.
Voters in Ontario also need to maintain perspective. These tariffs are nothing new from Trump. While they may cause short-term pain and hardship, history shows they are often part of a negotiation process that eventually leads to their removal. Keeping calm and focusing on long-term provincial issues will ensure that our leaders remain dedicated to priorities that truly impact our lives.
Ultimately, leadership is about balancing multiple priorities and maintaining a steadfast commitment to constituents’ needs. Let’s ensure Ontario’s real issues aren’t lost in the noise of international rhetoric, but are given the attention and action they so desperately require.
For Tuesday February 11 – Ford Focus
It’s easy to get swept up in the endless headlines about Trump—he thrives on keeping us distracted with his antics, like these steel tariffs. Sure, they’re bad, but honestly, are we really surprised by anything he does anymore?
All last week, and the weeks before, I was caught in the whirlwind of Trump’s latest shockers. But this week, I’m determined to shift my focus to Doug Ford and the upcoming Ontario election. With just 16 days left until we head to the polls, it’s crucial we pay attention to the regional issues that truly matter.
Not to worry loyal subscribers from beyond the borders of Ontario. I’m working on a showcase of my work that’s focused on Donald Trump’s nightmarish environmental policies for my February 15th newsletter.
But back to Ontario, the current party in power doesn’t deserve a free pass to a third term. Yet, with the high polling numbers the PCs are enjoying, it feels like many voters are tuned out, much like in 2022. Let’s fix our attention where it counts and make informed decisions that shape Ontario’s future.
Stay focused, folks!
Please enjoy the February 11, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Posts come out every Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!
Editorial Cartoons by Graeme MacKay – Monday February 10, 2025
A Short Cartoon History of Doug Ford with Donald Trump
The relationship between Doug Ford and Donald Trump offers a unique look at Canadian politics. While Ford has tried to project a “Captain Canada” image, promoting unity and Canadian values, he often found himself influenced by Trump’s more populist divisive style. Instances like the hot mic incident, where Ford expressed admiration for Trump, highlight this complexity.
Look no further than my past editorial cartoons that illustrate Ford’s journey alongside Trump—from the impact of Trump’s tariffs to Ford’s comments about Mexico. Through these cartoons, I try to highlight the interesting and sometimes contradictory ways these two leaders have interacted in the political landscape. Ford’s conversion on the road to Damascus only happened recently as these cartoons show:
On December 3, 2024, Trump wasn’t the focus of Doug Ford’s vitriol, it was Mexico:
December 3, 2024
By November 22, 2024, several weeks after the U.S. election, both Ford and Poilievre had grown notably silent as the reality of a Trump 2.0 administration began to take shape. The initial excitement surrounding the billions in provincial investments for electric vehicle batteries started to fade, overshadowed by the resurgence of the “Drill Baby Drill” mentality, which threatened to tarnish the prospects of green ventures with a grim shade of brown:
November 22, 2024
On November 16, 2024, I found myself speculating on how the rightward shift in the U.S. might ripple through politics in Canada and beyond. Just a week prior, I had sketched a similar alignment with Pierre Poilievre. In tandem with his alignment to Trump, Doug Ford began ramping up his rhetoric against Mexico, promoting a vision he called “Fortress Am-Can,” which seemed more like a gimmick than a genuine policy initiative. Speaking of gimmicks and the way life often mirrors cartoons, Doug has frequently been spotted in his blue OINFS hat (Ontario is Not For Sale). Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre, the master of catchy slogans, introduced his own: “Canada First”:
November 16, 2024
It’s quite common to draw comparisons between politicians and Donald Trump, especially among those on the further right; the more right-leaning a Canadian politician is, the more likely they are to align their policies with Trump. Figures like Kevin O’Leary, Maxime Bernier, and Kellie Leitch exemplify this “Trumpy” brand of Canadian politics. While many are quick to liken Doug Ford to Trump, I’ve been more cautious in making that connection, aside from the superficial similarity of their yellow hair. Ford does not fit the mold of a traditional right-wing Premier; in fact, he has outspent previous Liberal leaders. Reflecting on February 27, 2024, when Ford admitted to appointing judges with Progressive Conservative leanings to provincial courts, it echoed the controversial practice of stacking the Supreme Court with Trump Republicans:
February 28, 2024
Turn back the clock to this April 27, 2020 editorial cartoon, the world was six weeks into the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when resistance to mandates and public health expertise was starting to gain traction. Donald Trump was at the forefront of this anti-science movement, while politicians competing for the Conservative Party leadership echoed his erratic views. Doug Ford, however, expressed disdain for this mentality, lumping these dissenters together and labelling them as “yahoos.” His response highlighted a stark contrast between his approach and that of those rallying against public health measures:
April 28, 2020
Doug Ford’s April 14, 2018 firing of Hydro One executives echoed the brash reality-TV persona of Donald Trump from his show, The Apprentice. This dramatic move not only showcased Ford’s willingness to make bold, decisive actions but also reflected a style of leadership that prioritized spectacle and authority, reminiscent of Trump’s approach to management and public relations:
April 14, 2018
Back to the early days, June 15, 2018, Donald Trump was already causing concern in Canada with his imposition of tariffs during the early months of his presidency. As Doug Ford began his tenure as Premier, he found himself grappling with the immediate impacts of these Trump tariffs, dealing with a complex economic landscape that threatened to strain relations between the two countries and challenge Ford’s leadership right from the outset.
June 15, 2018
Doug Ford’s relationship with Donald Trump has been marked by both admiration and contradiction, culminating in a complex political unfolding. Given their intertwined paths, it should come as no surprise that the Bonnie Crombie Liberals capitalized on the perception that Ford was pleased with Trump’s reelection in 2024. This connection underscores the ongoing challenges Ford faces as he navigates his leadership role while balancing his own image against the backdrop of a divisive figure like Trump.
As February 2025 began, the week presented a stark contrast between distraction and focus. Canada confronted the serious reality of an impending trade war with the United States, though a 30-day reprieve followed. Meanwhile, the seismic events afflicting countless others in the U.S. and Palestine registered mightily on my Richter scale, but I left the satire of those experiences to others. In this I refer to the MAGA assault on the marginalized and vulnerable (aka ‘wokery’), with DEI policies being systematically dismantled. Elon Musk was tasked to take a giant axe to the so-called deep state, wielding pink slips like a scythe through civil service ranks, siphoning the treasury and leaving foreign aid in tatters.
Amidst this, for those among the masses of the MAGA base who preach against globalists, Team Donald Trump took a swing at the world’s rules-based order, launching a brazen assault on the International Criminal Court. This move was perfectly timed with a visit from Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, as Trump unveiled his audacious vision to transform the Gaza Strip into a Mediterranean Coney Island.
Let’s review the MAGA retribution list of attacks and destruction – Wokery: check. Deep State: check. Globalists: check
MAGA list of advancing society – Gaza-Lago: check.
As the narratives intertwined with the looming provincial election in Ontario, the week offered a mix of humour and insight, reflecting a delicate dance between spectacle and the urgency of pressing domestic concerns. Each day unveiled new facets of the challenges faced by Canadians, from the absurdities of highchair diplomacy to the fiery spirit of national unity. It was a week of exploring identity, resilience, and the urgent need to cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters at home and deliver commentary in the form of swift action to counter the aggressive maneuverings of a hostile leader to the south.
Childplay I – A Re-run from 2018 of Trump’s Trade Tactics – The week kicks off with a reflection on the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. Trump’s temporary reprieve on tariffs, primarily benefiting select American sectors ie: Whiskey, potash, pork rinds, Slim Jims, has left Canada in a state of uncertainty. The re-run cartoon imagines Trump as “The POTUS Who Cried Tariff,” echoing the fable’s theme of repeated false alarms and highlighting the unreliability of his trade threats. Despite these challenges, there’s a silver lining: Canadians are rallying around local businesses, strengthening national unity and identity.
Childplay II, Coping With Highchair Diplomacy – Tuesday delves into the temporary tariff relief for Canada and Mexico and its questionable motives. Trump’s unpredictable policies have strained U.S.-Canada relations, sparking Canadian apprehension about his comments on annexation. The cartoon paints a vivid picture of Trump as a toddler throwing a tantrum in the Oval Office, demanding “Me Want Canada,” symbolizing the absurdity and chaos of his foreign policy approach. Canadians respond by embracing a “Buy Canadian” mentality, further uniting against perceived aggressive tactics.
The Rise of Canadian Patriotism – Midweek reflections focus on the surge of national unity in Canada, driven by Trump’s tariff threats. A resistance movement has galvanized citizens and leaders, fostering an economic landscape centered on internal growth. The cartoon captures this sentiment with an explosive, fiery maple leaf—a powerful symbol of Canada’s resilience and defiance against economic coercion. This day emphasizes the importance of embracing Canadian identity in the face of adversity. It comes after several years contemplating the uglier side of this nation’s history, and if there’s a silver lining in the torment Trump is delivering to Canada, it’s that his bully-boy behaviour is actually unifying us.
Dimming Light of America – This is a rerun of a cartoon from Trump’s first term. When I reposted it with current circumstances, it attracted the usual snarky responses, with critics arguing that Americans do complete opposite actions to this soaring rhetoric. Call it a delusion or myth, but the “America First” principle once offered goals and a rules-based order that transcended beyond America. Today, this stance strains relationships with allies and raises concerns about moral and diplomatic influence. Trump’s proposal to turn the Gaza Strip into a luxury destination, ignoring Palestinian views, exemplifies this unilateral approach. As the U.S. retreats from global responsibilities, it’s crucial to reaffirm its commitment to democratic values and international cooperation while the world watches closely.
Breaking Down Barriers for Economic Growth – Thursday shifts attention to internal matters, highlighting the need to dismantle inter-provincial trade barriers. The commentary calls for action from provincial leaders to enhance trade and labour mobility across regions. The cartoon features Ontario’s political leaders in a humorous scene, each pointing fingers at respective pressures, with the caption urging, “Hey, Leaders! Tear Down the Walls!” This day underscores the necessity of focusing on domestic economic fortitude amidst global distractions.
Resistance is Futile – A readapted re-run from 2017 of Rejection of Global Cooperation – Donald Trump’s second term has shifted to aggressive expansionism, threatening global stability with ambitions for U.S. control over regions like Gaza and Greenland. His military and economic coercion, including punitive tariffs, reflects a revival of imperialist tactics. Additionally, his sanctions against the ICC, rejection of the Paris Accord and WHO, and the termination of billions in U.S. foreign aid signify a retreat from global cooperation and generosity, while simultaneously asserting that the U.S. is entitled to dictate its terms. This approach mirrors his treatment of domestic figures, indicating a global test of obedience to his agenda.
Prioritizing National Defence Over Global Spectacles – As the week winds down, Friday spotlights Canada’s geopolitical challenges, sandwiched between U.S. and Russian pressures. The editorial cartoon, “Canada: The Geopolitical Sandwich,” depicts a beaver perched on a slice of bread labelled “Trump,” emphasizing the need for increased defense investment. This day stresses the importance of prioritizing national security and addressing domestic vulnerabilities over getting lost in global distractions like Trump’s “Gaza-Lago” proposal.
Saturday, February 8, 2024: “Focus, Folks, Focus”
Election Distractions and Accountability – The week concludes with a reflection on Ontario’s provincial election, overshadowed by Trump’s pervasive influence. The final cartoon portrays Doug Ford as a hypnotist, swinging a pendulum with Trump’s head and urging voters to “focus, folks, focus,” while issues pile up behind him. This imagery encapsulates the week’s overarching theme: amidst the noise and spectacle, Canadians must remain vigilant in holding leaders accountable and addressing critical local issues.
The week has underscored the importance of focusing on Canada’s internal challenges while navigating the external noise. Politicians must take the influence of powerful figures like Trump seriously and avoid unnecessary distractions, such as the recent provincial election called mainly for Doug Ford’s benefit, which has cost valuable time during a crisis. Ontario should seize the opportunity to lead efforts in dismantling inter-provincial trade barriers, addressing neglected economic issues. Meanwhile, the federal government must prioritize strengthening Canada’s defense in an uncertain world. Additionally, urgent action is needed to combat the fentanyl crisis through coordinated responses. By honing in on these key areas, Canadians can work together to build a stronger, more enduring future. For next week, I aim to tackle some of the pressing issues challenging Ontario, fingers crossed it doesn’t get railroaded by the Yankee Distraction-In-Chief.
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The Premiers’ presence in Washington is both a necessary and strategic response to the current economic challenges. It reflects the resilience and unity of Canada in the face of adversity. However, political leaders must remain vigilant to ensure that their actions serve the interests of the nation as a whole, rather than individual political aspirations. As Canada navigates these uncharted waters, it is imperative that unity and genuine collaboration remain at the forefront of diplomatic efforts.
