2026-06 – mackaycartoons

Saturday February 21, 2026

February 21, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 21, 2026

Alberta’s Gamble: Populism Over Progress

January 30, 2026

Premier Danielle Smith’s announcement of a referendum in Alberta is not just a political maneuver; it is a dangerous and costly gamble with the province’s social fabric and economic future. Touted as a push for greater provincial autonomy and control over immigration, this referendum reeks of populist rhetoric reminiscent of far-right movements like MAGA under Donald Trump and the Reform Party under Nigel Farage. It seems less about practical governance and more about sowing division to appease a particular voter base.

The focus on immigration as a scapegoat for Alberta’s economic challenges is a troubling echo of tactics used to galvanize fear and resentment. By proposing to restrict access to essential services for newcomers, Smith risks fostering an environment of intolerance and division. This approach undermines the inclusive values that are fundamental to Canadian society, instead promoting a narrow and exclusionary vision of who belongs.

News: Danielle Smith announces fall referendum that avoids question of Alberta separatism, instead focusing on immigration cuts

November 12, 2025

Alberta’s economic woes, exacerbated by declining oil revenues, require genuine solutions like diversification and innovation. Yet, instead of addressing these pressing issues, the referendum distracts with divisive questions that offer no real solutions. It is a costly exercise that diverts attention and resources away from the critical need to build a resilient and diversified economy.

Moreover, the timing and content of this referendum seem strategically designed to fuel separatist sentiments. By framing the debate around provincial autonomy and dissatisfaction with federal policies, Smith appears to be encouraging rather than quelling the separatist movement in Alberta. This is a reckless strategy that risks further polarizing the province and undermining national unity.

May 31, 2023

In the end, this referendum reflects a political strategy more concerned with scoring points with a vocal minority than with addressing the real and pressing needs of Alberta’s citizens. It is a disgraceful abdication of leadership, one that prioritizes short-term political gains over the long-term well-being of all Albertans. The province deserves better than a costly and divisive spectacle. It deserves leadership that unites rather than divides, and policies that genuinely address the challenges it faces.

Friday February 20, 2026

February 20, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 20, 2026

Also printed in The Toronto Star. Published in The Daily Cartoonist.

Royal Fallout: Andrew’s Arrest Shakes the Monarchy

January 7, 2023

The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on charges of misconduct in public office marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into his ties with Jeffrey Epstein. While the focus is on breaches of public trust, the gravity of these charges underscores a broader narrative of accountability that has long eluded the rich and powerful.

For years, Andrew’s connections with Epstein have tainted the image of the British monarchy. The release of the Epstein files was crucial in uncovering potential abuses that would otherwise remain hidden. Without these revelations, the former prince might have continued to evade scrutiny.

News: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office over ties to Epstein

January 15, 2022

The courageous testimony of Virginia Giuffre, while separate from these charges, was instrumental in keeping the spotlight on Andrew. Her allegations, combined with the evidence from the Epstein files, have intensified the pursuit of justice and accountability.

Public opinion has been unforgiving. King Charles III’s assertion that “the law must take its course” reflects a necessary commitment to justice, as the monarchy grapples with an unprecedented crisis.

News: Key moments leading to Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest over his links to Epstein

November 18, 2025

This situation highlights the importance of holding those in power accountable. The charges of misconduct, while distinct from the more heinous allegations of sexual misconduct, reveal a pattern of behaviour that cannot be ignored.

As the legal process unfolds, the British monarchy faces a crucial test. The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, and it emphasizes the vital role of transparency and justice in restoring public trust.

Thursday February 19, 2026

February 19, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday February 19, 2026

Aiding Cuba’s People, Not Politics

January 6, 2026

Cuba is at a crucial turning point as its regime faces increasing pressure from both external forces and internal challenges. The U.S. embargo, intensified under Donald Trump, has choked vital resources, leaving the Cuban people grappling with severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. This has exacerbated an already dire situation, where decades of isolation have fostered a cultural antipathy towards the U.S. and its capitalist ways.

News: Cuba is facing an economic and social catastrophe, and not entirely because of Donald Trump

December 18, 2014

Despite resisting the stark wealth gaps of capitalism, Cuba’s socialist experiment has kept most citizens on the edge of poverty, as highlighted in Robert Huish’s analysis. The country’s highly educated professional class remains, but the regime’s grip on press freedom and outdated structures have prevented modernization.

Canada, with its historical ties and empathy for Cuba, faces calls to provide humanitarian aid. As noted in The Globe and Mail, any support should be channeled through international organizations to avoid bolstering the regime. Canada has maintained a distinct policy from the U.S., reflecting a commitment to humanitarian principles rather than geopolitical gamesmanship.

Opinion: Ottawa faces calls to send oil and aid to Cuba amid fuel shortage

In May 2014, Graeme and other Canadian editorial cartoonists travelled to Cuba

Reader comments echo the sentiment that while the Cuban government is repressive, the U.S.’s aggressive tactics are not the solution. Instead, Canada should focus on aiding the Cuban people, who are known for their creativity and resilience.

As Cuba confronts this crisis, it is essential that Canadians not only see themselves as beach patrons but as partners in humanity. Supporting Cubans through this difficult time aligns with our values and respects their right to determine their own destiny. The path forward should be theirs to choose, free from external imposition.

This is a pivotal moment, and Canada has the opportunity to stand with the Cuban people, helping them to envision a future beyond the shadows of “Socialismo o muerte.”

Wednesday February 18, 2026

February 18, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 18, 2026

Canada’s Curling Conundrum: A Slip on the Ice of Integrity

July 25, 2024

The recent curling scandal at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics has been a humbling experience for Canada, a nation that prides itself on its reputation for kindness, trustworthiness, and politeness. As accusations of rule violations surfaced against the Canadian men’s and women’s teams, the subsequent reactions cast a shadow over their accomplishments and challenged the country’s self-perception.

Historically, Canada has been a powerhouse in Olympic curling, consistently achieving medal success since the sport’s return in 1998. However, the defensive and at times over-the-top reactions from curlers like Marc Kennedy and Rachel Homan have sparked a national debate about sportsmanship and integrity.

Cathal Kelly’s opinion piece pointedly criticized the Canadian teams’ responses, suggesting that an apology and acceptance of the accusations could have preserved the country’s good standing. Instead, the defensiveness and use of foul language during matches have fuelled the controversy, overshadowing their potential medal wins.

Opinion: Canada has gone full villain in curling

July 27, 2024

The BBC article highlighted how this scandal has shaken Canada’s image, with fans and locals expressing disappointment over the handling of the situation. The notion that Canadians “aren’t supposed to do these things” echoed across public sentiment, as many struggled to reconcile the behaviour with the country’s ethos.

News: ‘A sad day’ – curling cheating row at Winter Games unsettles Canadians

Furthermore, the AP article by Kevin Baxter explored how this incident threatens the very fabric of curling’s culture—one built on trust and self-regulation. As modern pressures and the allure of professional leagues like the Rock League intensify, the sport’s traditional values risk being eroded.

News: Olympic curling scandal threatens to forever alter the sport’s culture of trust

March 3, 2010

This controversy serves as a stark reminder that actions speak louder than reputations. While Canada may dominate the curling rink, the behaviour exhibited during this scandal illustrates the need for humility and adherence to the spirit of the game. As Heather Mair, an expert on curling’s social aspects, noted, the relational fabric and informal governance that define the sport are at risk.

In moving forward, Canadian curlers and sports figures must reflect on how to align their actions with the national values they hold dear. The lesson here is clear: true greatness lies not just in victory, but in how one handles adversity. By embracing sportsmanship and integrity, Canada can reclaim not only its dominance in curling but also its esteemed reputation on the world stage.