authoritarianism – mackaycartoons

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

Friday February 21, 2025

February 21, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 21, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Trump’s Dangerous Dance with Authoritarianism: Rewriting Reality

October 26, 2024

In a world increasingly fraught with geopolitical tensions and the stark realities of authoritarian aggression, the responsibility of democratic nations to uphold truth and justice has never been more critical. As former President Donald Trump seeks to rewrite history by casting Ukraine as a villain and its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a dictator, it is imperative that the global community stands united against this dangerous narrative.

The facts are clear and undisputed: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was an unprovoked act of aggression, a blatant breach of international law, and a humanitarian disaster that has claimed countless innocent lives. Ukraine, under the steadfast leadership of Zelenskyy, has fought valiantly to defend its sovereignty and democratic principles against an authoritarian regime bent on its destruction.

December 10, 2024

Trump’s recent comments not only distort these truths but also align disturbingly with the playbook of authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin, a man widely recognized as a war criminal due to his regime’s actions in Ukraine. By shifting blame onto the victim of this brutal conflict, Trump undermines the very principles of justice and democracy that the United States and its allies have long championed.

As highlighted in a New York Times piece by Peter Baker, Trump’s revisionism involves “a striking distortion of reality,” where he falsely accuses Ukraine of initiating the conflict and portrays Zelenskyy as a “dictator without elections.” Such rhetoric not only misleads but also endangers the fragile alliances and support systems that have been built to uphold international law and order.

News: Trump Flips the Script on the Ukraine War, Blaming Zelensky Not Putin

September 28, 2024

This revisionist rhetoric poses a grave threat to the established world order, one that has, despite its imperfections, largely sought to promote peace, stability, and human rights. By sowing doubt and division, Trump risks weakening the unity of Western nations and emboldening authoritarian regimes that see opportunity in discord.

It is incumbent upon the leaders of democratic nations, including those in Europe, Canada, the UK, and beyond, to resist this dangerous narrative. Silence in the face of such blatant misinformation and revisionism is not an option. To remain silent is to tacitly endorse a worldview that values power over principle, lies over truth, and tyranny over freedom.

February 13, 2024

As one courageous GOP congressman pointed out, Vladimir Putin’s actions warrant the label of war criminal, a fact that cannot be ignored or softened by political expediency. It is a moral and ethical imperative for politicians, regardless of party affiliation, to speak out against any attempt to rehabilitate or justify his regime’s actions.

History will judge those who, in a time of moral crisis, chose the path of least resistance. It will remember those who stood by and allowed truth to be eclipsed by falsehoods for political gain. But it will also honour those who had the courage to speak out, to defend the values of democracy and human rights, and to stand with the oppressed against their oppressors.

In this pivotal moment, the global community must reaffirm its commitment to these principles. We must reject revisionism, support the victims of aggression, and hold accountable those who seek to distort reality for their own ends. Only by doing so can we hope to preserve the fragile peace and order that so many have fought and died to protect.

Today, I poured my creativity into crafting a cartoon that tackles a situation fraught with serious implications. The focus was on former President Donald Trump’s recent statements about Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite the cartoon’s lighthearted approach, the underlying issues are deeply concerning.

It’s telling that a lot of people say everything Trump says is a lie, reflecting a widespread skepticism and mistrust. This perception adds a layer of complexity, especially as Trump leads efforts to broker peace in a critical conflict with questionable intentions. Many still believe him, which only deepens the divide between those who seek truth and those who follow his narrative.

While the cartoon aims to entertain, it also highlights the troubling reality of misleading rhetoric. It underscores my worry about the direction of global politics and the urgent need for leaders who prioritize truth and genuine peace efforts.

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 21, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Wednesday July 31, 2024

July 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday July 31, 2024

Doug Ford Must Respect Judicial Independence While Addressing Crime Concerns

February 28, 2024

Premier Doug Ford’s recent rhetoric on holding judges and justices of the peace (JPs) “accountable” for their bail decisions has struck a chord with many Ontarians worried about rising crime and declining public safety. However, while the Premier’s tough-on-crime stance resonates with a populace eager for solutions, his approach risks undermining the foundational principles of judicial independence and the rule of law.

Ford’s comments at a recent Mississauga press conference, where he announced the $134-million purchase of new police helicopters, included a vow to collect statistics on bail decisions and ensure judicial officials are held accountable. The Premier’s narrative is clear: lenient bail practices contribute to repeat offences, posing a threat to public safety. “We have some of the greatest justices of the peace and judges in the country,” Ford stated, “but there’s some that continuously give people bail — not once, twice, three times, four times, five times.”

This rhetoric taps into widespread frustration among voters who see the justice system as overly lenient, particularly towards repeat offenders. Supportive comments reflect this sentiment: “Finally, someone is listening! These repeat offenders should NOT be granted bail!” and “We must protect society from Repeat Offenders.”

News: Doug Ford vows to hold JPs and judges ‘accountable’ for decisions

June 16, 2021

However, Ford’s approach to addressing these concerns — by threatening judicial accountability measures and stacking the courts with politically aligned appointees — poses significant risks. The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) and prominent legal professionals have rightly raised alarms about the potential erosion of judicial independence. Shakir Rahim of the CCLA called Ford’s comments “an unacceptable and dangerous attack on judicial independence, the constitution, and the rule of law.”

Judicial independence is a cornerstone of our democracy, ensuring that every person who goes to court has their case heard by an impartial decision-maker, free from political pressure. As Douglas Judson from the Federation of Ontario Law Associations (FOLA) pointed out, the idea that judges could be sanctioned based on political preferences is “clearly disturbing.” Michael Spratt, a prominent criminal lawyer, further noted that incorrect bail decisions can already be appealed by prosecutors, highlighting that existing accountability mechanisms are in place without compromising judicial impartiality.

The worrying parallels between Ford’s approach and the tactics of authoritarian leaders like Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela cannot be ignored. Maduro has notoriously undermined judicial independence by packing the courts with loyalists and using the judiciary to suppress dissent and uphold his regime’s policies. Under Maduro, the Venezuelan judiciary has become an extension of the executive, routinely issuing arrest warrants for political opponents, and failing to protect human rights. This manipulation of the judiciary has enabled widespread human rights abuses and eroded the rule of law in Venezuela. Ford must avoid this authoritarian playbook and respect the independence of Ontario’s judiciary.

December 1, 2022

Instead of encroaching on the judicial branch, Premier Ford should focus on legislative solutions that address public safety concerns without compromising judicial independence. Enhanced data collection on bail decisions and crime statistics is a positive step, as it allows for informed policymaking. However, this data must be used to improve the justice system through legislative reforms, not to intimidate judges or justify political interventions.

Ford’s government could, for example, propose legislative changes that set clearer guidelines for bail decisions, ensuring they balance public safety with the rights of the accused. Investments in crime prevention programs, mental health services, and community support initiatives would also address the root causes of crime, offering a more sustainable solution than simply toughening bail conditions.

Premier Ford’s impulse to take direct action on crime is understandable and resonates with many voters. However, in his eagerness to respond to public concerns, he must not undermine the democratic principles that safeguard our justice system. Respecting judicial independence while pursuing legislative avenues for reform is the only way to ensure that Ontario remains both safe and just.

In the words of Michael Spratt, when these institutions are broken, they are “very, very hard to fix and repair.” Ford must tread carefully, lest his efforts to protect public safety inadvertently damage the very foundations of our democratic society.

Friday April 5, 2024

April 5, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 5, 2024

The Eclipsing of Democracy: A Celestial and Political Paradox

Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator

In 1936, Ivan Glassco’s editorial cartoon for the Hamilton Spectator captured a moment of political symbolism: Adolf Hitler, emerging as a dominant force on the world stage, eclipsed Benito Mussolini, representing the ascendancy of authoritarianism over the fading embers of democracy. This visual metaphor, though born in a specific era, carries timeless resonance, echoing the recurrent pattern of strongmen casting their shadow over democratic institutions throughout history.

As we anticipate the forthcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, Glassco’s imagery takes on a renewed poignancy. Just as the moon intermittently obscures the brilliance of the sun, so too have authoritarian rulers intermittently obstructed the light of democracy. The cosmic phenomenon of an eclipse serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of power dynamics and the transient nature of political dominance.

Poll: Democracy in North America: Significant segments in Canada, U.S. open to authoritarian leadership

March 7, 2024

Consider the accounts of Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, who chronicled the extraordinary events of 585 BC when a solar eclipse intervened to halt the relentless conflict between the Medes and the Lydians. In the face of the celestial spectacle, warring factions laid down their arms, seized by a shared sense of awe and reverence. Though separated by millennia, the psychological impact of witnessing such cosmic phenomena remains a unifying force, evoking humility and fostering a sense of interconnectedness among humanity.

Recent studies corroborate this notion, suggesting that the experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse can evoke a profound sense of awe, prompting individuals to feel more deeply connected to their communities and to each other. This transient moment of collective wonder stands in stark contrast to the divisive forces that often fracture societies along political lines.

Yet, as we marvel at the celestial ballet unfolding above us, we cannot afford to overlook the troubling parallels evident in our political landscape. The rise of authoritarianism, not only in distant lands but also within the heartlands of North America, poses a grave threat to the principles of democracy. In both Canada and the United States, significant segments of the population express openness to authoritarian leadership, viewing strongman rule as a viable alternative to democratic governance.

Opinion: The Uniquely American Future of US Authoritarianism

July 20, 2021

In the United States, particularly, the Republican Party has veered toward authoritarianism in recent years, embracing extremist rhetoric and undermining democratic norms. From attempts to overturn election results to attacks on the judiciary and the media, the GOP’s flirtation with authoritarianism has cast a shadow over the future of American democracy.

The events of January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a brazen attempt to overturn a free and fair election, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of authoritarian encroachment. The parallels between the celestial and the political are not merely coincidental. Just as a solar eclipse reminds us of the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it, so too do the rise and fall of authoritarian regimes remind us of the fragility of democracy and the constant struggle to preserve it.

BBC: How the solar eclipse may affect the brain and bring people together

As we gaze up at the darkened sun on April 8, reflect not only on the wonders of the universe but also on the challenges facing our own societies. Draw inspiration from the awe-inspiring spectacle above us to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, to reject the siren call of authoritarianism, and to stand together in defence of freedom and justice for all. As the eclipse passes, so too shall the shadow of tyranny be dispelled by the light of liberty…we can only wish. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Wednesday March 20, 2024

March 20, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 20, 2024

The West’s Dangerous Slumber: Apathy and Diminishing Resolve in the Face of Authoritarian Expansionism

February 22, 2024

As the world grapples with the ominous spectre of authoritarian expansionism, the West’s response is marked by a dangerous combination of apathy and diminishing resolve. From the halls of power in Washington to the streets of European capitals, the signs of complacency are unmistakable, and the consequences could not be more dire.

The recent editorial in the Toronto Star, alongside reports of Vladimir Putin’s orchestrated victory in the Russian elections, paints a stark picture of the challenges we face. However, amidst this turmoil, there’s a troubling trend emerging from Canada – a nation known for its commitment to democracy and human rights.

News: Putin claims landslide in Russian election and scorns US democracy

June 6, 2023

While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has shown steadfast support for Ukraine, signs of Ukrainian “fatigue” among certain factions in Canada’s political landscape are becoming increasingly apparent. The editorial’s mention of Conservative voters questioning the level of aid to Ukraine speaks volumes about the erosion of resolve within Canadian society.

But the issue extends far beyond Canadian borders. The growing indifference in the United States, particularly among certain political factions, is equally alarming. The editorial’s condemnation of the Republican-led U.S. Congress for turning its back on Kyiv in the face of Russian aggression underscores the depth of this problem.

The Trump-era “America First” rhetoric, coupled with a reluctance to engage meaningfully on the world stage, has created a vacuum that authoritarian leaders like Putin are all too eager to fill. The stalled aid package in the U.S. House of Representatives, tied to unrelated domestic issues, is a glaring example of how short-term political interests can undermine global stability and security.

This trend is not only concerning in its own right but also plays directly into the hands of authoritarian leaders like Putin. A divided West, lacking the unity and determination to confront aggression abroad, only emboldens those who seek to undermine the principles of democracy and freedom.

Editorial: We will be judged if we turn our backs on Ukraine now

May 3, 2022

The headline “The West’s Dangerous Slumber” encapsulates this perilous situation perfectly. It serves as a wake-up call to all who value liberty and democracy, urging them to recognize the signs of authoritarian expansionism and take decisive action before it’s too late.

In the face of adversity, we cannot afford to succumb to apathy or complacency. The time to stand up for our values and defend the vulnerable is now. The fate of Ukraine, the future of democracy, and the stability of the world hang in the balance. Let history remember us not for our indifference but for our unwavering commitment to justice and freedom. (AI)

By Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator, March 21, 1936

The above cartoon is a parody of one original drawn by The Hamilton Spectator’s Editorial Cartoonist at the time it was published, for March 21, 1936. A braided German girl symbolizing the “Rhine” fitting herself into a dress of armour labelled “Hitler Gowns.” The upper caption reads, “The new dress.” This suggests the militarization and fortification of the Rhine region under Adolf Hitler’s regime, symbolized by the dress of armour. The imagery implies the incorporation of the Rhine, a historically significant river in Germany, into Hitler’s aggressive policies and military expansion. The term “Hitler Gowns” may be used sarcastically to highlight the oppression. Ivan Russell Glassco, was born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1902. Professionally, he transitioned from architecture, gained recognition for realistic caricatures, and became the editorial cartoonist for the Hamilton Spectator in 1934, before his death in 1941 while training with the Royal Canadian Air Force.