affordability – mackaycartoons

Friday April 24, 2026

April 24, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 24, 2026

Also printed in The Toronto Star. Published in The Week.

Arch of Discord: Trump’s Legacy Overshadows Priorities

October 23 2025

As the world grapples with pressing issues like the Ukraine conflict, the Strait of Hormuz crisis, and a global cost-of-living surge, President Donald Trump remains fixated on his legacy. His latest endeavour—a triumphal arch in Washington, D.C.—has drawn widespread criticism for its scale and symbolism.

News: Donnyland’? Ukraine Proposes Naming Part of the Donbas in Trump’s Honor.

The proposed arch, intended to surpass Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, has faced backlash from preservationists and the public. Critics argue that it disrupts the visual harmony of the capital’s historic landscape, overshadowing monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. The project, perceived as a personal monument to Trump’s ego, raises questions about its appropriateness and alignment with American values.

Despite nearly unanimous public opposition, the Commission of Fine Arts, filled with Trump loyalists, seems poised to approve the project. This highlights a troubling trend of sidelining public discourse in favour of personal agendas. Trump’s focus on grandiose projects like this arch and a new White House ballroom reflects a prioritization of personal legacy over pressing national and international challenges.

Analysis: A Landscape Architect Reviews Trump’s Proposed Triumphal Arch

In a time when leadership should be focused on diplomacy and resolving crises, this arch stands as a testament to misplaced priorities. It risks setting a precedent where monumental decisions are driven by vanity rather than the collective values and needs of the nation. As Trump pushes forward, the question remains: Is this the legacy future generations should inherit?

Source: Wikipedia.

Dare to Ignore the Past…

All this talk of Donald Trump and his arch that has stirred laughter and mockery had me thinking of another arch from a bygone era that provoked controversy, one I doubt the incurious President or his ill informed yes men would know about. Designed by Decimus Burton as a triumphal gateway commemorating Britain’s Napoleonic victories and as a grand ceremonial entrance to the royal parks, it was built between 1826 and 1830 at Hyde Park Corner and was known simply as the triumphal arch. The name shifted to the Duke of Wellington’s Arch as public and press association with Wellington’s Napoleonic leadership attached his name and political symbolism to it.

Despite some of his faults, including a notorious temper, political obstinacy and an autocratic manner, a glorious archway bearing the Duke’s name seemed warranted. In 1846, however, Matthew Cotes Wyatt’s gigantic equestrian statue of Wellington was perched atop the arch and that excess exposed how glorification can go too far: critics attacked its scale and poor fit with Burton’s design, Queen Victoria complained it blocked the view of Buckingham Palace and cartoonists mocked it in Punch.

The Duke died in 1852, and despite criticism it remained on the arch until 1882 because of public attachment, political sensitivity about slighting the duke, bureaucratic delays, and the cost and difficulty of removal. The unpopular Wyatt statue was removed from Hyde Park Corner and re‑erected at Aldershot in 1885. The move defused royal and public complaints, found an Army sponsor, and eased disposal costs. The Prince of Wales, the future Edward VII, backed and helped secure the relocation. After the move to Aldershot the bronze suffered neglect, weathering and some vandal damage. It was later cleaned, repaired and treated by specialists to stabilize and protect it.

Photo Credit: Tripadvisor; Friends of Aldershot; Equestrian Statues

Wellington’s Arch caused quite a stir back in the day, and it’s a good lesson for us now. The new arch planned for the 250th anniversary looks more like a monument to Donald Trump’s ego than a celebration of independence. While he might see himself as a great leader like Wellington or Napoleon, his actions, especially ignoring environmental issues and stirring up global tensions, don’t really deserve a hero’s welcome. Just like the fuss over Wellington’s statue, this new plan should be checked out carefully to make sure it brings people together instead of just pumping up one person’s image.

Saturday April 18, 2026

April 18, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 18, 2026

Air Ford One: Soaring Above Ontario’s Needs

March 8, 2019

In a time when Ontario faces pressing issues in healthcare, education, and affordability, Premier Doug Ford’s decision to purchase a $28.9 million Bombardier Challenger 650 jet is a glaring misstep. This move signals a disconnect from the realities faced by everyday Ontarians and raises serious questions about government priorities.

The purchase of a private jet, dubbed “Air Ford One,” comes when Ontario’s hospitals are understaffed, education funding is strained, and over a million people rely on food banks. The $28.9 million price tag could have been directed towards frontline services that directly impact the lives of citizens. Instead, it has been allocated to a luxury aircraft for the premier’s travel, justified under the guise of security and flexibility.

News: Ontario buys used $28.9M private jet for Doug Ford: sources

April 30, 2019

Public outcry, as reflected in various comments, underscores the frustration with this decision. Many are questioning the logic behind such a costly investment when chartering or leasing options could have provided similar benefits without the hefty financial commitment. The lack of transparency in the procurement process only adds to the skepticism.

This decision is reminiscent of past controversies, such as former Premier Bill Davis’s ill-fated jet purchase in the 1980s, which was quickly reversed due to public and political pressure. Additionally, Ford has previously faced criticism for spending $50,000 on a customized van, raising concerns about his spending priorities.

To put this expenditure into perspective, the cost of the jet is comparable to the proposed new residence for Canada’s Prime Minister, as the historic 24 Sussex has been condemned. Despite the urgent need, numerous governments have delayed this decision due to spending optics—highlighting how significant such a financial commitment truly is.

News: Heritage Ottawa calls on feds to make a decision on future home of prime minister

September 16, 2025

Ontarians deserve a government that prioritizes their immediate needs. With healthcare systems struggling, educational resources stretched thin, and affordability at an all-time low, investing in a private jet is a misallocation of taxpayer dollars. This decision not only fails to address urgent issues but also erodes public trust in leadership.

As the province navigates these challenges, it is imperative for the government to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and transparency. Ontarians expect investments that enhance their quality of life, not decisions that cater to political convenience or luxury. It’s time for Premier Ford to reconsider this purchase and realign with the needs of the people he serves.

Saturday December 20, 2025

December 20, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday December 20, 2025

Finding Joy Amidst Economic Strain This Christmas

December 10, 2021

As the holiday season unfolds, Canadians find themselves grappling with a stark reality: the rising cost of living is casting a shadow over what should be a joyful time of year. With affordability issues tightening budgets, many are forced to rethink their spending, often turning to borrowing and adding to personal debt already at record highs.

The strain is evident in every corner of daily life. Inflation continues to impact essential expenses, with food and housing at the forefront of concerns. As highlighted in recent reports, the reliance on food banks has surged, underscoring the vulnerability many households face. This reliance is not just a temporary measure but increasingly a necessity for survival.

News: As cost of living soars, more Canadians are relying on food banks

December 9, 2022

Compounding these challenges is a noticeable decline in charitable donations. Once a cornerstone of the holiday spirit, giving has become less feasible for many. Rising living costs and increased taxation have diverted funds away from traditional charities, as individuals prioritize immediate needs over altruistic gestures.

Interestingly, some Canadians are shifting their charitable efforts towards social media-driven crowdfunding. This trend reflects a desire for direct, personal connections with those in need, but it also highlights a broader skepticism about traditional charity efficiency and impact.

News: Canada has become a nation of charity grinches

December 28, 2021

Despite these challenges, the spirit of the season need not be lost. This is a time to focus on empathy and community support. Governments and policymakers must prioritize targeted relief measures that address the root causes of financial strain. Meanwhile, charities can adapt by enhancing transparency and clearly demonstrating the impact of donations.

For individuals, finding joy might mean embracing simplicity. Small acts of kindness, volunteering, or community involvement can foster a sense of togetherness and purpose. Sharing experiences and creating memories can bring warmth that material gifts might not.

News: For 67% of Canadians, the cost of living feels as bad as it ever has

This Christmas, as we navigate economic challenges, let us remember that the essence of the season lies in connection and compassion. By supporting each other and advocating for meaningful change, we can bring light to a festive season dimmed by financial burdens. In adversity, may we find resilience and collective strength to foster joy and hope for the future.

Wednesday December 10, 2025

December 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday December 10, 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Trump’s Tariff Tango – A Comedy of Economic Errors

April 20, 2017

It seems Donald Trump is once again waltzing through the economic landscape with the grace of a bull in a china shop. His recent declaration that the affordability crisis is a “hoax” concocted by Democrats is as believable as finding a unicorn grazing in Central Park.

Let’s break this down: Since Trump’s ascension, tariffs have been slapped on a variety of agricultural products, raising costs across the board. These tariffs, paid by American taxpayers, have been a primary driver of the rising prices we see in grocery stores today. The irony? These very taxpayers are now funding the subsidies meant to bail out the farmers burdened by the increased costs of Trump’s own tariff policies. It’s a bit like setting your own house on fire and then boasting about your firefighting skills.

News: U.S. eyes high tariffs on Canadian fertilizer, subsidies for farmers

October 17, 2024

Blaming the Biden administration and Democrats for this mess is another classic Trump move – deflect and distract. In reality, the need for hefty farmer subsidies stems from the trade chaos Trump himself initiated. And now, with the prospect of tariffs on Canadian potash, he’s poised to repeat his earlier blunders. This would further inflate costs for American farmers, who rely heavily on affordable Canadian fertilizer. It’s akin to shooting yourself in the foot and then complaining about the limp.

Reader comments from a recent Globe and Mail piece highlight the absurdity of these policies. One astutely points out that imposing severe tariffs on Saskatchewan potash, a critical input for American agriculture, is “just about the stupidest idea suggested by the President in recent times.” Another suggests Trump’s tactics are a misguided attempt to downplay Canada’s importance in trade negotiations, a move destined to backfire.

News: Trump Promises Farmers $12 Billion to Blunt Fallout From His Trade War

August 14, 2025

In the end, this strategy of “sucking and blowing” – as one commenter so eloquently put it – is not just bad economic policy; it’s a masterclass in how not to manage trade relations. If Trump truly wants to pave the way for a “new golden age for farmers,” as his administration claims, he might want to start by putting down the tariff hammer and picking up a history book. After all, those who don’t learn from past mistakes are doomed to repeat them. And here we are, watching the second act of an economic farce that should have closed after its first run.

Old MacDonald Trump

Trump’s latest antics are, frankly, a bit of a joke. Claiming that the affordability crisis is a “hoax” is just laughable. And pinning the need for massive farmer subsidies on Biden and the Democrats? That’s rich. The truth is, costs have skyrocketed because of the tariffs he slapped on agricultural products—tariffs that American taxpayers are footing the bill for. Now, those same taxpayers are bailing out farmers with subsidies to cover the very costs Trump’s tariffs created.

And then there’s the plan to tax Canadian potash imports. It’s like he’s trying to make life harder for American farmers and consumers. He loves to rail against socialism and point fingers at other countries for their economic practices, but this is a textbook case of hypocrisy. If anyone’s playing socialist here, it’s Trump, and it’s not a good look.

We all knew the folly of tariffs from the get-go. History lays that out clearly. Everyone gets it—except Trump. This policy made no sense when he first tried it, and it’s just as misguided in 2025.

Wednesday February 26, 2025

February 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

February 26, 2025

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 26, 2025

Tariffs and Tumbles: Ford’s Housing Crisis Unresolved

October 18, 2024

As Ontarians get ready to vote, the housing crisis remains a major issue that Premier Doug Ford’s government hasn’t properly tackled. Instead of focusing on affordable housing solutions, Ford has turned attention to upcoming tariffs from the Trump administration, which are likely to raise the costs of building materials. This distraction comes at a time when many can’t afford homes and homelessness is increasing.

News: How Ontario’s housing crisis got so bad

September 27, 2024

Ford’s decision to call an election 18 months early was partly based on these tariffs, yet his government hasn’t offered a clear plan to deal with the resulting cost hikes. Critics note that spending on affordable housing and homelessness has barely changed over the past decade. Meanwhile, homelessness has jumped by 25% since 2022, affecting 81,000 people in 2024. The government’s response has been weak, focusing on clearing homeless encampments instead of finding long-term solutions.

Since Ford took office, the average home price in Ontario has shot up by 42%, exceeding national rates. Housing construction is lagging, and the goal of building 1.5 million homes by 2031 seems far off, with a shortfall of 740,000 units. Ford’s approach has been more reactive than proactive, failing to tackle the root causes of the crisis. The reluctance to support family-friendly housing and co-op models, along with zoning and bureaucratic delays, has hindered progress. Even the Housing Affordability Task Force’s recommendations have largely been ignored.

Opinion: Doug Ford is failing to deliver on housing. Here’s what needs to change after Thursday’s election

August 21, 2024

Despite these challenges, voters seem ready to give Ford another majority. This is puzzling, given that the opposition parties have proposed more robust plans. The NDP and Greens want to increase housing density and legalize four-plexes, while the Liberals aim to lower homeownership costs by reducing development charges.

Ford’s lack of a clear strategy amid upcoming tariffs and his poor handling of the housing crisis are missed opportunities to build trust and secure Ontario’s future. Housing is not just an economic issue; it’s about providing everyone with a decent place to live. As Ontarians vote, they should demand leadership that addresses housing affordability with real solutions, not just talk. The province’s future depends on it.

It’s frustrating to watch a government that has utterly mishandled the housing issue in Ontario escape proper scrutiny in a sneaky snap election campaign. The evidence is all around us: from the rising number of encampments to the staggering statistics that show a lack of affordable housing options, it’s clear that the Ford government has failed to address this critical issue. Rental prices have skyrocketed, and homelessness continues to grow, reflecting a dire need for immediate action.

While there are other elements at play, like the aftermath of the pandemic and federal immigration policies adding pressure, the Ford government’s focus on Trump tariffs during the election seems misplaced. They’ve dropped the ball, particularly with the Greenbelt fiasco and the absence of a viable alternative plan. It’s evident that any hope for a well-thought-out strategy for what’s to come has been squandered.

How they’re still leading so far ahead in the polls is beyond me. With the election nearly here, it’s disheartening to see leadership that prioritizes distractions over solid action on housing issues. Many are left wondering if they’ve seen enough real action or just a lot of hot air. My job isn’t to suggest a better party to vote for, but to point out the weaknesses of a party given its record—and this government has performed poorly. This is my final opportunity to vent before Ontario heads to the polls on Thursday. If you’re aware of current events, be sure to vote — apathy may lead to the worst outcome, and what a shame that would be.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 26, 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

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