2025-05 – Page 3 – mackaycartoons

Tuesday March 4, 2025

March 4, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday March 4, 2025

Doug Ford’s Renewed Mandate in the Face of Tariff Threats

February 28, 2025

Doug Ford’s recent electoral triumph marks a historic third term for the Ontario Premier, a feat achieved amidst a unique confluence of political dynamics. In the wake of Justin Trudeau’s resignation and a period of federal leadership uncertainty, Ford seized the opportunity to cast himself as “Captain Canada,” positioning himself as the defender against Donald Trump’s tariff threats. This brilliant political maneuvering secured him another majority, but it raises the question: Can Ford genuinely combat the effects of these tariffs, or is this just another chapter in a saga of unfulfilled promises?

The recent Ontario election saw a voter turnout of approximately 45.4%, reflecting a persistent disengagement among the electorate.

Opinion: Congratulations, Doug Ford. Now I’m begging you, please start doing your actual job

February 14, 2025

Ford’s rallying cry against Trump resonated with enough voters among that poor turnout, tapping into a rising wave of Canadian patriotism. Yet, while his campaign capitalized on the moment, the reality of governance remains stark. The Premier’s track record in handling crucial provincial issues leaves much to be desired. Ontario’s healthcare system is plagued with shortages, closed emergency rooms, and notorious wait times. The much-discussed “hallway healthcare” persists, illustrating a systemic failure to address foundational problems.

Affordable housing remains another pressing issue. Despite promises, tangible progress has been elusive, with many Ontarians facing housing insecurity amidst skyrocketing property prices and rent. Ford’s approach to fiscal prudence and accountability also invites skepticism. His administration’s populist gestures, like eliminating license plate renewal fees and distributing pre-election cheques, have been criticized as short-sighted and fiscally irresponsible.

February 8, 2025

As tariffs loom, Ford’s bold promises of multibillion-dollar stimulus packages and retaliatory measures against U.S. goods must be viewed with caution. Trade policy primarily resides within the federal jurisdiction, and Ford’s capacity to influence international trade dynamics is inherently limited. His government’s response to tariffs might very well echo the reactive, day-to-day decision-making reminiscent of early pandemic days, yet lacking the depth needed for long-term strategic solutions.

Moreover, the reduction of inter-provincial trade barriers, a vital economic initiative, has seen little progress under Ford’s leadership. This inertia further exemplifies a pattern of inaction on complex issues that require more than just populist rhetoric.

Furthermore, Ford’s past reluctance to tackle complex issues like community college funding, class sizes, and other educational challenges suggests a pattern of prioritizing high-profile, populist initiatives over substantive policy work. With a strong mandate now in hand, it remains uncertain whether he will pivot towards addressing these enduring challenges or continue on the path of flashy, yet shallow, governance.

News: Doug Ford has won another term. What’s his 1st order of business?

February 6, 2025

While Doug Ford’s political acumen and strategic timing are commendable, Ontarians should temper their expectations. The coming years under his leadership might bring more of the same—grandstanding without substantial progress on the critical issues that affect the daily lives of citizens. As we stand on the cusp of potential tariffs and the geopolitical tensions they entail, Ford’s ability to navigate these waters will be tested. However, given his track record, skepticism about his capacity to effectively combat the tariff effects is not only warranted but prudent.

Cartoons of Confrontation

March 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The Trump Menace vs. Ford’s Strong Mandate

Saturday March 1, 2025 | Newsletter 18

This week marked a crucial moment in Ontario politics as Premier Doug Ford’s snap election campaign reached its peak. Please hang with me non-Ontario subscribers, there’s plenty covered below that relates to you! As Ford sought a strong mandate to tackle pressing issues, Donald Trump’s influence loomed large, not only through his bull-headed rhetoric on tariffs and annexation against Canada but also through his increasingly disturbing alignment with the tyrannical figure in Vladimir Putin. My editorial cartoons reflected these ongoing debates about housing, electric vehicle investments, and international diplomacy, capturing the tension between regional politics and global threats. Let’s dive into the highlights of the week.

Canada-U.S. Trade Obstructions, Nov. 16, 1935

But first, I love exploring the archives of my editorial cartoonist predecessor, where I found an insightful piece from 90 years ago that resonates today. The cartoon by Ivan Glassco, printed in the Hamilton Spectator, shows Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie King and U.S. President Roosevelt breaking through trade barriers, symbolizing cooperation. This reflects their efforts to reduce tariffs through the Canada–United States Reciprocal Trade Agreement during the Great Depression. The Hawley-Smoot Tariff earlier had worsened economic conditions by sparking retaliatory tariffs and trade declines. This historic lesson reminds us of the wrong direction we’re heading towards, the complexities and costs of protectionism, underscoring the importance of fostering open trade.

Tuesday, February 25: “The High-Stakes Game of Politics”

The above cartoon portrays Premier Doug Ford playing a losing Blackjack game with Donald Trump, symbolizing his risky position on Ontario’s electric vehicle investments. As the election day neared, both Ford and the opposition ignored the significant EV sector, while Trump’s focus on fossil fuels overshadows green energy discussions. The uncertainty surrounding Ford’s strategy raises questions about its future impact on Ontario.

Wednesday, February 26: “Inflatable Promises and Real Disconnect”

In this cartoon, Doug Ford stands in front of an inflatable castle labelled “Affordable Housing for All,” oblivious to the rising housing crisis. A maintenance worker’s remark about the castle’s air supply underscores the gap between political promises and reality. With only a day left until voting, it was perplexing to see Ford’s party leading in the polls, despite their inadequate housing strategies and the all-too-familiar sight of tent encampments scattered across the province.

Thursday, February 27: “Kings, Thieves, and Minerals”

This cartoon offers a sharp critique of the proposed U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, portraying Trump as a king flanked by Putin and a beleaguered Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Critics argue that the deal represents economic exploitation rather than sincere support for Ukraine. The cartoon captures a growing disillusionment with U.S. foreign policy and prompts crucial questions about global relations and democracy. As we look ahead to 2025, can the USA still claim to be the leader of the free world? This moment in history seems to mark the beginning of the end for that long-held assertion.

Friday, February 28: “Mandates on Ice”

This cartoon leans on my long running comic strip showing a young Donald Trump in a fur coat appearing in the snowy headbanger habitat of Etobicoke with Doug Ford and friends, each showcasing exaggerated “mandates.” Ford’s push for a strong mandate amid U.S. trade tariffs allowed him to divert attention from pressing domestic issues like scandals, healthcare in crisis, and a lack of affordable housing. This absurd scene captures the shifting dynamics in Ontario’s political landscape as Ford sought a third consecutive majority government.

Saturday, March 1: “Royal Charms and Diplomatic Alarms”

Drawn during the doldrums of the Ontario election’s anticlimactic vote tabulations, this cartoon depicts King Charles III, recruited by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to use his royal charm to win favour with Trump. While Starmer’s approach using the monarch may offer temporary relief, it contrasts sharply with the challenges Canada faces under Trump’s aggressive stance. The cartoon invites reflection on the effectiveness of diplomatic strategies in today’s political climate.

Saturday, March 1: “The Spectacle of Diplomacy”

This cartoon depicts an absurd, but in reality, disgraceful Oval Office meeting between Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump, and J.D. Vance, comparing it to a wrestling match. Zelenskyy’s evident frustration contrasts sharply with Trump’s preening and flamboyant demeanor, reflecting a concerning shift in U.S. foreign policy. Meanwhile, the portrait of Vladimir Putin looms large, symbolizing the growing influence of tyranny that influences these interactions. The cartoon criticizes the focus on showmanship over genuine diplomacy, calling for a more thoughtful approach to international relations.

* * * * * * * *

As we wrap up this week’s reflections, we welcome a much-needed break from the usual hustle of Ontario politics. Premier Doug Ford is enjoying a brief honeymoon period after his recent election campaign, giving him (and editorial cartoonists) some time to focus on other important issues. However, the influence of figures like Trump and Putin still affects our discussions. If Ford plays by the rules, he might outlast Trump, who, in all likelihood, won’t play by the rules.

I hope my editorial cartoons have highlighted ongoing debates about housing, electric vehicles, and diplomacy, showing how local politics connects with global issues. Ford won his strong mandate primarily because of the support from a small portion of the 45% of eligible voters who turned out.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate this quieter time for the next day or so, as next week promises to bring more political excitement. The federal Liberal leadership race will conclude with the announcement of a new leader, and Canada will find out who its next Prime Minister will be. We can only guess what challenges lie ahead, especially with the unpredictable situation in the White House. Given recent trends since November 4, 2024, new challenges are likely to arise (spoiler note) in the coming days, influenced by Trump. Expect him to make appearances in my cartoons next week… yet again.

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!

Saturday March 1, 2025

March 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 1, 2025

Also Published in the Toronto Star. Also, the Daily Cartoonist.

The Oval Office Clash and America’s Troubling Shift in Foreign Policy

February 27, 2025

The recent explosive meeting in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has laid bare a troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy. The disgraceful behaviour displayed by Trump and Vance not only confirms a departure from traditional American values but also signals a realignment with authoritarianism and financial interests over democratic principles.

Historically, the United States has been regarded as the leader of the free world, championing democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. However, the confrontation with Zelenskyy reveals a stark departure from these ideals. Trump’s demand for gratitude and his ultimatum to Zelenskyy, alongside Vance’s aggressive lecturing, highlight an administration more interested in transactional diplomacy than principled leadership.

News: Trump, Vance shout at Zelenskyy in combative Oval Office meeting

February 21, 2025

This meeting, intended to finalize a minerals deal, devolved into a shouting match that resembled a scripted wrestling show, complete with public posturing and choreographed chaos. Such theatrics might be expected from a WWE event, but in the context of international diplomacy, they are both extraordinary and alarming. The behaviour of Trump and Vance, with its lack of decorum and respect, was not just a diplomatic faux pas; it was a deliberate display of bullying that undermines America’s standing on the global stage.

The comparison of this spectacle to a fixed wrestling match is not far-fetched. The meeting’s dynamics, with Vance’s sudden attack on Zelenskyy triggering Trump’s tirade, seemed orchestrated to humiliate the Ukrainian leader and assert dominance. This aligns disturbingly with the tactics of a narcissist, where manipulation and coercion replace genuine dialogue and negotiation.

January 21, 2025

Beyond the embarrassing display, the geopolitical implications are profound. The administration’s stance appears increasingly aligned with Vladimir Putin’s interests. Trump’s praise of Putin, coupled with his skepticism of Ukraine, suggests a pivot towards accommodating Russian narratives. This shift raises questions about the integrity of U.S. foreign policy and its commitment to supporting allies like Ukraine, who are fighting for their survival against aggression.

Furthermore, the administration’s focus on economic deals over strategic alliances indicates a prioritization of financial gain over moral leadership. This transactional approach, where everything is reduced to a negotiation chip, erodes the very foundation of alliances and partnerships built on shared values and mutual respect.

News: Tempers flare before Zelensky abruptly departs the White House without signing a minerals deal

October 26, 2024

In light of these developments, the perception of the United States as a beacon of democracy is under threat. The world watched in dismay as Trump and Vance’s conduct betrayed the principles America once stood for. The incident not only damages U.S.-Ukraine relations but also emboldens adversaries like Russia, who seek to exploit divisions within the Western alliance.

As the dust settles from this diplomatic debacle, it is crucial for American leaders and citizens alike to reflect on the country’s direction. The path towards aligning with tyranny and prioritizing the mighty dollar over democratic ideals is a perilous one. It is time for a recommitment to the values that have long defined American leadership on the world stage, ensuring that the United States remains a champion of freedom, not a supporter of authoritarianism.

Reflections on a Diplomatic Debacle

As I settled into my Chinese takeout lunch today, the news of the extraordinary and disgraceful Oval Office meeting broke, overshadowing the earlier event where UK Labour leader Keir Starmer had lavished flattery upon President Trump. Starmer had outdone even President Macron by presenting a personal letter from King Charles, inviting Trump for an unprecedented second state visit. This diplomatic maneuver, though noteworthy, was quickly eclipsed by the chaotic spectacle that unfolded with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In my latest editorial cartoon, I aimed to capture the essence of this debacle. The meeting, intended as a diplomatic engagement, devolved into a performance reminiscent of a WWE match. President Zelenskyy, a leader who has emerged as a symbol of resilience and freedom since Trump and Vance’s inauguration, was treated with shocking disrespect. The hosts, Trump and Vance, behaved as though they were managing a drive-thru restaurant rather than conducting a serious diplomatic dialogue.

This event reflects a troubling shift in U.S. foreign policy, where theatrics and transactional diplomacy overshadow genuine leadership and support for democratic ideals. The cartoon serves as a visual critique of how the current administration’s actions have undermined America’s standing as the leader of the free world, with Zelenskyy stepping into that void as a beacon of courage and determination.

Through humour and satire, my cartoon aims to provoke thought and spark conversations about the values we hold dear and the direction we are heading. It is a call to recognize the importance of integrity, respect, and true leadership in our global interactions.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 1, 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!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday March 1, 2025

March 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 1, 2025

Posted to the Toronto Star.

Recruiting Canada’s King For UK’s Strategic Flattery

June 4, 2012

In the nuanced world of international diplomacy, flattery has emerged as a key strategy for world leaders aiming to win favour with U.S. President Donald Trump. Recent developments involving the British monarchy, as well as Trump’s interactions with Australia and Canada, underscore the prominence of this diplomatic dance.

News: King Charles issues personal invite for Trump to visit Britain for state visit

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent invitation to Trump for a state visit, personally extended by King Charles III, exemplifies this approach. The British monarchy, with its historical gravitas and ceremonial splendour, serves as an effective means to capture Trump’s attention. For a president who appreciates grandeur and spectacle, the invitation is both a stroke to his ego and a diplomatic gesture. However, this timing is awkward for King Charles, who finds himself a pawn in a broader geopolitical play, potentially neglecting Canada, another Commonwealth realm.

September 30, 2022

Since his re-election, Trump has displayed a peculiar fixation on Canada, with rhetoric suggesting annexation and plans for severe economic measures, including a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. This leaves Canada facing the threat of an economic conflict with its largest trading partner, while seemingly sidelined by its closest Commonwealth allies.

In stark contrast, Australia has adeptly managed its relationship with Trump, emphasizing shared defence interests and economic ties, such as those rooted in the AUKUS agreement. Even when Trump appeared unfamiliar with the AUKUS acronym, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other leaders downplayed the incident, reinforcing the broader, positive relationship. This showcases a strategic use of flattery and reassurance to maintain favour with the U.S.

Analysis: For Trump, Australia is nothing like Canada

December 16, 2019

Early in the week, French President Emmanuel Macron demonstrated similar tact with body language, flowery expressions of loyalty, and addressing Trump as “Dear Donald.” Such gestures highlight the lengths to which leaders will go to secure Trump’s favour.

For Canada, the situation raises a pressing question: If the British monarchy cannot utilize its historical ties to advocate for Canada during times of crisis, what benefit does this relationship provide? With the Canadian Liberals poised to choose their next leader on March 9, perhaps a new Prime Minister will seek to leverage the monarchy’s influence to counteract Trump’s economic threats. Until then, Canadians watch the fawning interactions between the U.S., the UK, and other Commonwealth countries, left to navigate Trump’s rhetoric and threats largely on their own. If King Charles can be persuaded to act on Canada’s behalf, it may rejuvenate the perceived value of these historic ties.

The Diplomacy Dance

It’s fascinating and frustrating how flattery seems to be the key to dealing with Trump. He seems to take any lack of deference as a personal insult to the United States. Take Zelenskyy, for instance—watching him get treated like a child while fighting off an invasion is just disgraceful.

On the flip side, Keir Starmer managed to charm Trump with a letter from King Charles, sidestepping those dreaded tariffs. It’s like watching a masterclass in diplomatic flattery. Meanwhile, here in Canada, we’re enduring Trump’s taunts and staring down the barrel of higher tariffs than even China. Given that King Charles is our King too, maybe it’s time we play that royal card in this high-stakes game Trump is playing with everyone.

Your support means the world, and I’m grateful to have this space to share these thoughts. Let’s keep the conversation going!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack