In the grand theatre of global politics and business, few spectacles can match the dazzling, albeit bewildering, performance currently playing out between Elon Musk and Donald Trump. It’s a tale of two titans, whose recent public spat has captivated audiences worldwide, offering a welcome diversion from the truly pressing crises of our time. Grab your popcorn, folks, because this is the distraction we never knew we needed.
The headlines are ablaze with Musk’s and Trump’s tit-for-tat on social media, where insults are exchanged like trading cards, and threats are as common as emojis. It’s a modern-day Shakespearean drama, with Musk pondering a new political party and Trump threatening to cut off lucrative government contracts. But let’s be honest: this whole saga is less about substance and more about showmanship, akin to a professional wrestling match where the outcome matters less than the entertainment value.
Meanwhile, off-stage, the world is grappling with issues that make the Musk-Trump feud look like child’s play. Remember the lofty campaign promise that Trump would end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine on “day one” of his presidency? Spoiler alert: it didn’t happen. Instead, that conflict continues to simmer, a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises.
And then there’s the Middle East, a region perennially in need of peace and stability. But why focus on complex diplomacy when you can watch billionaires bicker? As missiles fly and negotiations stall, our attention is conveniently diverted by the latest episode of the Musk-Trump telenovela.
Back home, Trump’s cost-cutting measures are carving up the federal budget with the precision of a sushi chef, benefiting the rich with tax cuts that would make a hedge fund manager blush. The middle and lower classes? Well, they can marvel at the spectacle of two of the world’s most powerful men acting like schoolyard rivals.
Let’s not forget the tariffs! Trump’s upending of global trade with his tariff policies has left economists scratching their heads and global markets in a tizzy. But why bother with the complexities of international economics when there are Twitter wars to follow?
So, as we watch this unfolding drama between Musk and Trump, let’s enjoy it for what it is: a grand diversion, a sideshow that keeps us entertained while the world’s real issues simmer in the background. It’s a reminder that in the age of social media, it’s not just about what gets done, but who can put on the best show.
In the end, perhaps Musk and Trump will reconcile, returning us to our regularly scheduled programming. Until then, let’s sit back and enjoy the spectacle, because who needs reality when you have reality TV?
Doug Ford’s Bill 17 – Yet Another Step Backwards for Ontario’s Future
May 29 2025
Doug Ford is at it again, pushing through Bill 17, the “Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act,” with the same disregard for environmental protections that characterized his earlier attempts to dismantle the Greenbelt. Ford seems unfazed by previous voter backlash, perhaps feeling invincible with a third majority government—never mind that it was supported by less than half of the voting populace. It seems apathy has its price, and in this case, it’s a mediocre government that prioritizes quick wins over genuine progress.
Bill 17 epitomizes Ford’s governance style: quick fixes, shortcuts, and a focus on appeasing developers and well-connected allies at the expense of everyday Ontarians. By overriding local green building standards, this bill undermines cities like Toronto and Hamilton, which have been proactive in setting their own climate benchmarks. This disregard for local needs could lead to higher emissions and weaker climate defences in new developments.
Adding insult to injury, Bill 5 complements this approach by cutting Indigenous communities out of the consultation process. Ford’s administration seems to have little interest in meaningful engagement, opting instead for expediency over respecting Indigenous rights and fostering true reconciliation.
This isn’t Ford’s first run-in with environmental neglect. His track record includes cancelling the Green Energy Act and the cap-and-trade program, decisions that not only forfeited potential revenue but also missed opportunities for sustainable job creation. Ford’s approach mirrors a wider trend where governments, both in Canada and the U.S., are rolling back environmental protections. Ottawa’s recent rollback of the carbon tax/rebate program is yet another example of this troubling regression.
October 31, 2023
In Ontario, Ford’s frequent use of Ministerial Zoning Orders (MZOs) to fast-track development without public debate only further underscores his disdain for democratic processes. This tactic creates a shadowy parallel bureaucracy that lacks transparency and accountability.
The path Ford has chosen is one that turns back the clock on conservation and trivializes the impacts of climate change. It disenfranchises communities striving for sustainable growth. As Ontarians, we must demand better from our leaders. We deserve a government that values comprehensive reforms, respects environmental protections, and champions a sustainable future. Doug Ford’s Bill 17 and Bill 5 are steps in the wrong direction, and it’s crucial for the people of Ontario to demand more thoughtful and planet-focused policies.
Ford’s Familiar Tune
Here I am again, feeling like a broken record, lamenting yet another one of Doug Ford’s government’s anti-environmental moves. It seems like this is what we signed up for when less than half of the voting public handed him a third majority government. Sure, Ford played the Captain Canada role brilliantly, taking a strong stand against Trump earlier this year, and his dramatic flair continues to win him applause. But beneath that performative exterior, we’re stuck with the reality of what the next few years are likely to look like.
Ironically, Ford’s approach mirrors a “Trumpy” disregard for genuine consultation and environmental responsibility. It’s full steam ahead for his developer pals and provincial power brokers, with little concern for the impact on our planet. It’s almost amusing—almost—how he can be hailed as a brave critic of the U.S. President while simultaneously mirroring that same President’s approach when it comes to ignoring the climate crisis. It’s a frustrating echo, and one that I fear we’ll be hearing more of in the years to come.
The recent hike in steel and aluminum tariffs by President Trump has sparked a heated debate, with the move likely to cause significant economic pain on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border. While there’s no denying that steel dumping is a problem that needs addressing, the root of the issue doesn’t lie in Canada. Instead, it’s countries like China and South Korea that have been flooding the markets with cheap steel, creating unfair competition.
Canada has tried to tackle this, imposing tariffs on Chinese steel, but the response has been slow and insufficient. Ottawa must act more decisively to protect its industries and work in concert with the U.S. to address these challenges. However, the way forward should not involve undermining free trade agreements like the USMCA, which have long supported economic cooperation between the two nations.
For Canada, the increased tariffs threaten to cripple industries and lead to job losses, particularly in steel-dependent regions. Meanwhile, American consumers are likely to face higher prices as manufacturers pass on the increased costs. This could have a ripple effect on various sectors, from automotive to construction.
Politically, these tariffs could serve as a means for President Trump to generate revenue to fund tax cuts that largely benefit the wealthy. In this scenario, the rich gain while everyday consumers and workers bear the brunt of the economic fallout.
The solution lies in a collaborative approach that targets the real culprits of steel dumping without resorting to damaging protectionist measures. Both Canada and the U.S. need to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop strategies that uphold fair trade and economic stability for all involved.
Living in Hamilton, Canada’s steel heartland, I’ve seen firsthand how one leader’s motivations can ripple through an industry, affecting countless lives. President Trump’s decision to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports feels like déjà vu for us here. We’ve been through this before, and it’s unsettling to witness such a strategy unfold again.
May 11, 2019
Saturday May 11, 2019 – The above cartoon, originally drawn in 2018, remains as relevant in 2025 as it was then. It captures the enduring nature of trade tensions between the U.S. and China, highlighting the ongoing impact of tariffs and political strategies that continue to affect global economies and everyday consumers. This visual commentary underscores how little the fundamental issues have shifted over the years, despite numerous negotiations and changes in leadership.
The world watches as Trump pursues what many see as an ill-conceived plan, one that history has shown may not lead to the prosperity promised. The notion of ‘making America great again’ seems ironic when the very policies meant to protect could, in fact, harm industries both at home and in allied nations like ours. It’s a stark reminder of how interconnected our economies are and how critical it is to find solutions that uplift rather than undermine. Is this what winning looks like? For those of us in Hamilton, it feels more like a step back than a leap towards any so-called golden age.
Substack is a great platform for me as a cartoonist. I’m mindful of the layoffs hitting many talented people, but I’m keeping a positive outlook. Take a look at the animation of my June 5, 2025, cartoon, and thanks for your support!
From Santa Carney to the Provinces: Canada’s New Unity
December 18, 2024
The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon has ushered in a refreshing wave of optimism and collaboration that Canada hasn’t experienced in over a decade. With the transition from Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney as Prime Minister, there’s been a noticeable shift in the dynamics between federal and provincial leaders. Ontario Premier Doug Ford captured the positive spirit of the gathering by likening Carney to Santa Claus, with a sled full of possibilities, ready to consider options that could benefit the entire nation.
Under Trudeau, the relationship between the federal government and provincial leaders, especially those from the Western provinces, was often fraught with tension. The interim period following his resignation only added to the uncertainty and lack of direction. However, Carney’s approach seems to have brought a new sense of unity and hope, with a focus on “nation-building projects” that aim to foster economic growth and national cohesion.
The meeting was marked by a commitment from Carney to fast-track approvals for projects deemed in the national interest, while keeping the door open for new ideas and initiatives. Key discussions covered areas such as trade, energy infrastructure, and critical minerals, laying the groundwork for potential progress.
Yet, challenges remain on the horizon. The proposal to build a pipeline through northern B.C. remains a contentious issue, as regional priorities differ. Alberta is pushing for new pipelines as part of its energy strategy, while B.C. emphasizes shovel-ready projects that are immediately actionable. Additionally, First Nations have expressed concerns about potential rights violations in the forthcoming “one Canadian economy” legislation, highlighting the need for meaningful engagement and dialogue.
Ford’s analogy serves as a reminder that while Carney can guide and support these initiatives, the real work lies with the premiers. They must collaborate and address the regulatory and infrastructure barriers that currently impede progress. Removing interprovincial trade barriers and boosting the economy will require technical expertise, political will, and cooperation across all levels of government.
This meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in the relationship between the federal and provincial governments. While the federal government under Carney provides a vision and framework, it’s evident that the provinces will play a crucial role in executing these plans. The path forward will involve navigating challenges and differences, but the foundation for future cooperation seems more promising than it has in years. Both federal and provincial leaders have an opportunity to work together towards meaningful progress, making the potential for a stronger and more cohesive Canada more attainable than it has been in a long time.
Premiers in Portrait
Wednesday June 4, 2025 – The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in federal-provincial relations, with renewed collaboration and shared goals under Prime Minister Mark Carney.
The premiers’ gathering in Saskatoon has brought a fresh sense of hope and teamwork to Canadian politics, a welcome change from the tensions of the Trudeau era. With Mark Carney leading, federal and provincial leaders talked about big projects to boost the economy and unite the country. While challenges like pipeline disagreements and Indigenous rights remain, the meeting set a positive tone for cooperation. With everyone on board, real progress finally seems possible.
Let’s hope this isn’t just the usual burst of optimism that comes with a new government. We’ve been here before, where initial excitement fades and things return to normal. The real test will be whether Carney and his team can turn this positive energy into real actions and lasting change. Fingers crossed that this time, the momentum leads to real progress.
There’s some talk of the Premiers building up Carney as a kind of folk hero, ready to work wonders. Doug Ford’s comparison of the PM to Santa Claus plays into this idea and is the focus of today’s editorial cartoon.
Speaking of editorial cartoons, here’s how I approach drawing the Premiers. When I started as a cartoonist, I learned quickly that respect in this field means getting good at drawing group caricatures. As a kid, I drew funny classroom portraits, which made me popular and even helped me stand up to bullies. Drawing caricatures gave me a unique advantage.
As I got older and became interested in the news, I naturally gravitated toward satire. The patience I learned from those classroom scenes paid off when I saw professional cartoonists create group caricatures. These weren’t the usual amusement park portraits; they captured powerful people from all angles. I studied these cartoons closely and kept clippings in a journal. One of my favourites is by Tony Jenkins from the Globe & Mail, who cleverly mixed the 20th anniversary of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” with a meeting of Canadian Premiers. Jenkins turned unrelated news into a timeless classic, and he’s still a great cartoonist and friend.
Jenkins and others taught me early on that to succeed in editorial cartooning here, you must be able to draw the Premiers. I see it as a personal challenge to sketch a group shot of them occasionally, keeping my skills sharp. Here’s a look back at some of my past Premier group portraits:
Sketch studies of premiers (c1995) Pat Binns, Russell MacLellen, Frank McKenna, Glen Clark, Brian Tobin, Lucien Bouchard, Mike Harris, Ralph Klein.
Fathers of Confederation – illustrated in 1995. I’ve drawn various renditions of the premiers cast in this classic portrait, here in 2006, and here in 2014.
Friday October 14, 2005 – The Alberta government announced a $10 million plan to distribute $400 cheques to residents as part of a $1.4-billion “resource rebate” initiative, funded by the province’s surplus from oil and natural-gas royalties.
Sunday June 17, 2007 – On occasion of Father’s Day, Prime Minister Harper’s aggressive tactics in the past federal-provincial dispute over the Atlantic Accord and equalization payments overshadowed the facts, with Nova Scotia’s demands to remove the fiscal capacity cap being seen as unreasonable and unfair.
Thursday November 22, 2012 – Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and other premiers criticized Prime Minister Stephen Harper for not attending a meeting to collaborate on a national economic strategy, viewing it as a missed opportunity to build on past federal-provincial cooperation during economic challenges. McGuinty had recently announced his departure from public life.
Wednesday October 12, 2016 – the federal government under Justin Trudeau announced a carbon pricing plan starting at $10 per tonne in 2018, rising to $50 by 2022, to reduce emissions and meet climate commitments, which provoked backlash from several provinces.
Thursday, July 25, 2013 – Kathleen Wynne chaired a historic Council of the Federation conference in July 2013, where women led the majority of Canada’s largest provinces, marking a shift from the traditional male-dominated leadership and focusing on collaborative discussions on national issues. In this cartoon I simply had to imagine what a carriage load of first husbands looked like.
Tuesday November 24, 2015 – Ahead of the Paris climate talks, Justin Trudeau and premiers aim to unify Canada’s climate message, balancing existing provincial leadership and economic growth with national climate commitments.
Tuesday February 7, 2023 – Justin Trudeau’s Liberals were struggling to regain momentum and hoped a health care deal would help them reset their agenda and address Canadians’ concerns.
This has been posted to Substack, which you can subscribe to. Substack is a great platform for me as a cartoonist. I’m mindful of the layoffs hitting many talented people, but I’m keeping a positive outlook. Take a look at the animation of my June 4, 2025, cartoon, and thanks for your support!
In the shadow of a protracted and devastating conflict, Ukraine has delivered a resounding message to the world and, more importantly, to Russia. The recent drone offensive, targeting strategic Russian military airfields, stands as a testament to Ukraine’s resilience and ingenuity. This operation, meticulously coordinated over a year and a half, culminated in the destruction of over 40 Russian aircraft, including long-range bombers that have wreaked havoc on Ukrainian cities and civilian lives.
For over three years, Ukrainians have endured relentless aggression, with countless lives lost and families torn apart. The international community has watched, often with a sense of helplessness, as Russia’s brutal campaign unfolded. Yet, this daring strike by Ukraine signifies a pivotal moment in the conflict—a strategic and symbolic blow that not only cripples a significant portion of Russia’s aerial capabilities but also rekindles hope for a more just and swift resolution.
The audacity of this operation cannot be overstated. By infiltrating deep into Russian territory, Ukraine has once again demonstrated its ability to adapt and innovate, even when faced with a much larger adversary. This act of defiance challenges the perception that Ukraine is faltering in this conflict, showing instead that it is capable of turning the tide through sheer determination and tactical brilliance.
Amidst these military maneuvers, a lesser-publicized yet profound tragedy continues to unfold: the systematic abduction and assimilation of Ukrainian children into Russian society. Over 19,000 children have reportedly been taken from their homeland, subjected to re-education, and placed into Russian families. This heinous act of cultural erasure has been met with widespread condemnation, yet it underscores the depth of the humanitarian crisis that Ukraine faces.
In the geopolitical arena, the implications of this strike are profound. While President Trump’s administration has been criticized for its ambiguous stance and perceived alignment with Putin, Ukraine’s unilateral action underscores the importance of unwavering support from allies who value freedom and justice. The temporary suspension of U.S. military aid, only to be resumed under pressure, highlights the complex dance of diplomacy and realpolitik that continues to shape the conflict’s trajectory.
Ukraine’s offensive should serve as a clarion call to the international community. It is a vivid reminder that the Ukrainian people are not merely victims of aggression but active agents in their quest for sovereignty and peace. The destruction of $2 billion worth of Russian military assets without the use of long-range missiles showcases a new era of warfare, where technological prowess and strategic acumen can level the playing field.
As the world watches, the hope is that this bold move will expedite the end of hostilities, forcing Russia to reconsider its prolonged and costly aggression. For Ukraine, this operation is not just a military success but a beacon of hope—a step closer to a future where justice prevails, and peace is restored. The courage and tenacity of the Ukrainian people continue to inspire, reminding us all that the fight for freedom is never in vain.
In this defining moment, Ukraine stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the unyielding spirit of a nation determined to chart its destiny. May this offensive be the catalyst for a more equitable resolution, one that honours the sacrifices made and paves the way for lasting peace. Slava Ukraini!
