campaign – mackaycartoons

Wednesday April 9, 2025

April 9, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 9, 2025

Harper’s Comeback: A Rallying Cry or Risky Rewind?

February 15, 2025

In a strategic move that highlights the ongoing influence of the Reform wing within the Conservative Party, Stephen Harper has re-entered the political spotlight, endorsing Pierre Poilievre in a bid to rejuvenate a sagging campaign. Harper’s recent appearance at a rally in Edmonton, along with Preston Manning’s warnings about another Liberal government, underscores a concerted effort to appeal to the party’s Western base and its historical roots in the Reform movement.

However, this reliance on former leaders from the Reform side may resonate well in Alberta and other Western provinces, where the Reform legacy still holds significant sway, but it offers little to inspire enthusiasm beyond these regions. The absence of strong representation from the Progressive Conservative faction within the current Conservative Party under Poilievre reflects a notable shift in the party’s identity, leaving some Progressive Conservatives feeling alienated.

News: Stephen Harper says Canada’s problems not created by Trump as he endorses Pierre Poilievre

April 13, 2024

Harper’s endorsement, as reported by Laura Stone in The Globe and Mail, frames Canada’s current challenges as a result of Liberal policies rather than external factors like the Trump administration. This narrative aims to position Poilievre as the leader who can steer Canada in a new direction. However, as Ryan Tumilty’s article in The Toronto Star illustrates, Harper’s criticism of Mark Carney—suggesting that Carney overstated his role during the 2008 financial crisis—highlights a strategic attempt to bolster the Conservative narrative at the potential cost of alienating centrists who value Carney’s economic expertise.

Preston Manning’s recent involvement, issuing warnings about the consequences of another Liberal government, further emphasizes the Reform wing’s influence. Yet, this approach may struggle to galvanize support among voters who align more closely with the Progressive Conservative tradition. Many of these voters may find themselves more inclined to support a candidate like Carney, who embodies a moderate, centrist approach that aligns with their values.

News: Fissure among Conservatives undermining Poilievre’s pitch he’s a national unifier: experts

By Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday August 24, 2013

Reader comments from the articles provide additional insight, revealling skepticism about Harper’s and Poilievre’s appeal beyond the core Reform supporters. The comments reflect a polarized perspective, with some viewing Harper’s return as a reminder of past controversies and others questioning Poilievre’s ability to unify the country.

To succeed on a national scale, the Conservative Party under Poilievre must find a way to bridge these internal divides and offer a platform that resonates with a broader Canadian electorate. Without this balance, the party risks limiting its appeal to its traditional strongholds, making it challenging to expand its reach beyond the Western provinces. The path forward requires not just energizing the base but also embracing a more inclusive and pragmatic approach that can win the confidence of centrists across the country.

Bring Out Your Fossils

As one observes the current landscape of Canadian politics, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Pierre Poilievre is facing significant challenges, not just from the electorate, but from within his own party. The divisions within the Conservative Party are glaring, raising a critical question: Is this the type of leader Canada truly wants?

It’s no secret he doesn’t have a lot of allies in his party that he can call close friends.

Just as an aside, are we tired yet of seeing/hearing those grating political ads about solid protective arms and borders wrapping proud flags and brave soldiers?

Poilievre’s struggles to unify his party are a red flag. If he can’t foster cohesion among his own members, how can he possibly hope to unite a diverse nation? His inability to see eye to eye with key provincial leaders such as Danielle Smith in Alberta, who is vocal about Western frustrations, further highlights a disconnect that is hard to ignore. Meanwhile, his lack of alignment with Doug Ford’s Big Blue Machine in Ontario and differing perspectives with Tim Houston in Nova Scotia only underscore the ideological rifts within the party.

This disunity is further highlighted by the recent rally, where he felt the need to enlist his old boss Stephen Harper, a rejected figure from the past, to lend his voice. It’s almost as if he’s trying to resurrect a bygone era to compensate for a lack of contemporary leadership. Moreover, Preston Manning’s re-emergence from private life to express his concerns is telling. It signals a deeper sense of desperation within the party. The ghosts of the Reform Party are making a haunting appearance, and it seems like a last-ditch effort to rally the base. Yet, these figures from the past may not resonate with today’s broader electorate.

The situation begs the question: Can a leader mired in internal conflict and reliant on past figures truly guide Canada forward? It’s a moment of reflection not just for the Conservative Party but for the country as a whole. As we move forward, we must consider whether a leader with such divisive challenges is equipped to handle the complexities of leading an entire nation.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 9, 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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Tuesday March 25, 2025

March 25, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday March 25, 2025

Playing the Trump Card: A Conservative Gamble

January 13, 2025

The first week of the 2025 federal election has been anything but smooth for the Conservative Party, as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s recent actions and comments have cast an unwelcome spotlight on the party and its leader, Pierre Poilievre. Her controversial request to the Trump administration to pause tariffs until after the Canadian election has not only raised eyebrows but has also thrown a wrench into the Conservatives’ campaign strategy.

News: Danielle Smith tells U.S. podcast she asked Trump administration to pause tariffs to bolster Conservatives

January 17, 2025

Smith’s actions, perceived by many as an invitation for foreign interference in Canadian politics, have drawn widespread criticism. Her alignment with Donald Trump, underscored by her visit to Mar-a-Lago and attendance at Trump’s inauguration, plays the “Trump card,” bending the narrative of her loyalty and fuelling concerns about a lack of commitment to Canadian interests. In a time when unity and a cohesive national strategy are paramount, Smith’s independent approach undermines the collective “Team Canada” stance that both provincial and federal leaders strive to present.

Opinion: Canada, May I Introduce You to Ukraine?

March 21, 2025

Trump’s penchant for describing perceived weakness as not “holding the cards” is particularly relevant here. By aligning with Trump, Smith may inadvertently align with this narrative of vulnerability, casting doubts on her and Poilievre’s ability to lead with strength and independence. This association could paint the Conservatives as lacking the strategic “cards” needed to effectively govern and protect Canadian interests.

For Pierre Poilievre, this association with Trump-like politics is a significant hurdle. As he attempts to broaden his appeal to a diverse electorate, Smith’s comments and actions risk reinforcing a narrative that ties him closely to Trump—a narrative that could alienate moderate and swing voters who are wary of such connections. Poilievre’s reluctance to distance himself from Smith’s remarks only complicates his efforts to rebrand the Conservative Party and distance it from the divisive politics of the past.

Opinion: Danielle Smith’s Trump talk threatens Pierre Poilievre’s chances to win

March 15, 2025

Liberal Leader Mark Carney has capitalized on this situation, emphasizing the need for a unified government that stands firm for Canada. This contrast between Carney’s vision and the discord within the Conservative ranks could prove pivotal in swaying undecided voters. The controversy surrounding Smith provides the Liberals with a powerful narrative to question the Conservatives’ commitment to Canadian sovereignty and unity.

As the election progresses, the Conservatives face the daunting task of addressing these challenges head-on. Poilievre must navigate the delicate balance of retaining support from his conservative base while reaching out to a broader audience. He needs to clearly articulate his vision for Canada, one that resonates with voters seeking stability and leadership untainted by foreign influence.

February 9, 2024

The first week of the 2025 federal election has not gone as planned for the Conservatives. Danielle Smith’s missteps have cast a long shadow, complicating Pierre Poilievre’s path to victory. As the campaign unfolds, the Conservatives must work tirelessly to overcome this narrative and present a united front that truly reflects Canadian values and priorities. Whether they can successfully pivot from this challenging start remains to be seen, but the stakes have never been higher.

A Trump Card Gag

More than a decade has passed since Donald Trump took that infamous elevator ride, launching himself into the arena of politics. In all those years, amidst the countless headlines, debates, and controversies, I’ve managed to avoid the temptation of making a “Trump card” gag—until now. The alignment of Danielle Smith with Trump has created the first major gaffe of the Canadian election campaign, sparking controversy and certainly causing some behind-the-scenes fury between Smith and Pierre Poilievre. Her comments have undoubtedly complicated his efforts to steer the Conservative Party away from divisive politics – as in a reputation. Of being a Timbit Trump leading a Maple MAGA cult. It seems that, whether in politics or wordplay, timing is everything, and this particular moment has finally provided the perfect scenario for this metaphor.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Wednesday March 12, 2025

March 12, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 12, 2025

Canada’s Counterpunch to Trump’s Tariffs

February 28, 2025

In recent weeks, the trade relationship between the United States and Canada has deteriorated alarmingly, driven by President Donald Trump’s decision to impose punitive tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. These actions are more than mere economic measures; they represent a unilateral escalation of trade hostilities that threaten to destabilize industries and economies on both sides of the border. In response, Canada finds itself with few options but to retaliate, and Doug Ford has emerged as an unexpected champion of Canadian interests in this trade war.

The imposition of a 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum by the Trump administration is an aggressive maneuver that places immense pressure on a sector reliant on American consumers for 90% of its output. The potential devastation to Canada’s steel industry is undeniable, and the ripple effects could lead to economic downturns on both sides of the border. With President Trump openly acknowledging the possibility of a recession, the stakes have never been higher.

News: Donald Trump says he’ll jack up tariffs to 50% on all Canadian steel and aluminum effective Wednesday

February 13, 2025

Doug Ford’s approach to the situation has been assertive and confrontational, embodying the spirit of a pitbull in his strategic retaliation against Trump. While not all Canadians agree with Ford’s tactics, it is undeniable that his actions have caught the attention of the U.S. administration. In the face of bullying, Canada’s only viable strategy is to kick back, and Ford seems determined to show that Canada will not be intimidated.

The necessity of retaliation is further underscored by the sentiment among Canadians that we are being bullied. The imposition of such tariffs is not just an economic issue; it is a challenge to Canada’s sovereignty and economic stability. Retaliatory measures are not a choice but an imperative to protect national interests. As commentators have suggested, Canada must consider leveraging other aspects of trade, such as imposing export taxes on critical resources like potash, oil, and electricity, to exert pressure on the U.S. market.

Moreover, this situation presents an opportunity for Canada to reassess its trade relationships and seek alliances beyond North America. Building stronger ties with Europe and Asia could provide a buffer against the volatility of U.S. policies and foster economic resilience.

Opinion: The U.S. Democrats aren’t the strongest opposition to Trump right now. Canada is

December 3, 2024

The path forward requires a combination of strategic diplomacy and firm economic measures. While diplomacy remains essential, the real battle lies in the realm of political and economic influence. Canada must engage in a full-scale persuasion campaign to make American consumers aware of the consequences of Trump’s tariffs on their daily lives. As Jaime Watt aptly described, this campaign should focus on ensuring that every price increase, supply chain disruption, and economic pain is directly linked to its source: Donald Trump.

In conclusion, while the current trade conflict with the U.S. poses significant challenges, it also presents an opportunity for Canada to demonstrate strength and strategic acumen. By standing firm and retaliating decisively, Canada can protect its interests and show that it will not be cowed by aggressive unilateral actions. In the face of a bully, sometimes the only option is to fight back, and Canada stands ready to do just that.

Today was a whirlwind. It began with a mission to draw attention to the 5th anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic declaration and the unsettling return of measles, thanks to anti-science and vaccine hesitancy. But in the “Golden Era” of Donald Trump, plans shift at the drop of a hat. Morning headlines blared that the hot headed President was threatening a whopping 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. I live in Hamilton, the Pittsburgh of Canada, so steel manufacturing is a big interest to me. This was his reaction to my provincial premier, Doug Ford’s announcement yesterday about billing American users for Ontario’s electricity.

See how disruptive one man can be? It’s practically impossible to focus on other stuff – Yet charges are made by Trumpies that we’re the ones afflicted with TDS.

By day’s end, the scene had dramatically shifted. After gyrations in the markets, a flurry of phone calls and negotiations, Ford wisely decided to rescind his threats, buying some breathing room for both sides. In the midst of this diplomatic ballet, I sketched out a cartoon that captures the day’s essence. Mark Carney, the new Canadian Liberal leader and prime minister designate, stands confidently, the new guy in the neighbourhood, gesturing toward a fierce pitbull—Doug Ford—barking vigorously. Carney quips, “Doug’s harmless. He’s just a ‘tariffic’ guardian.” Meanwhile, a moving truck labelled “PM Designate Movers” hints at the transition in leadership. Overlooking it all, Trump stands on a balcony, his stern expression a testament to the day’s tensions. It’s a satirical take on the relentless political dynamics and trade tensions that colour these times. Oh what fun it brings.

Here’s the making-of clip for the March 12, 2025 cartoon:

– The Graeme Gallery

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Monday November 25, 2024

November 25, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Continuing this week’s theme of revisiting Donald Trump through the lens of editorial cartoons, I’m struck by the inescapable sense of déjà vu. As we wade deeper into the Trump 2.0 era, it’s unsettling how many motifs from his initial presidency—and even his 2016 transition—are reappearing with eerie precision.

Saturday November 12, 2016

The cartoon that comes to mind today is The Taming of the Donald, published on November 12, 2016. It depicts a freshly minted President-elect Trump standing alongside Justin Trudeau. Despite the stark contrast in their political ideologies, Trudeau’s public embrace of Trump was both practical and emblematic of Canada’s eternal dance with its outsized southern neighbour. Remarkably, when Trump resurfaced earlier this month as a presumptive leader on the global stage, Trudeau extended a similar diplomatic hand, echoing his 2016 overture despite the years of tension and divergence that followed.

Looking back, both figures shared an extraordinary rise to power, with Trudeau securing his victory in Canada’s 2015 federal election and Trump clinching the U.S. presidency a year later. Their respective ascents were defined by soaring popularity and, ironically, memorable hair. Remember those Conservative Party attack ads on Trudeau? “Nice hair, though” became a lasting jab—and a visual parallel that editorial cartoonists couldn’t resist exploiting, even years later, and in the above case, a caricature of Trudeau styled in Trump’s unmistakable mane.

On July 22, 2015, the date of the lead cartoon, months before their respective wins, both leaders were seen as improbable contenders by many. Trudeau’s Liberals were struggling at 25% in the polls behind both the NDP and Conservatives. Across the border, Trump’s campaign faced significant backlash after his infamous comments about John McCain’s military service. Yet, both leaders found ways to defy expectations. Trudeau surged ahead in Canada’s federal election by October, and Trump’s brashness seemed to fortify his momentum, propelling him to the top of national Republican polls by the same time.

Fast forward to 2024, and how the tables have turned. Trump’s support appears more robust than ever, while Trudeau faces what many view as the twilight of his political career. His approval ratings have plummeted, and his once-unassailable position in Canadian politics now feels like a relic of the past. Ironically, Trudeau’s political survival in 2015—when he was widely underestimated—might serve as a faint glimmer of hope for his supporters. But the landscape today feels far less forgiving.

Tuesday September 4, 2024

BTW this gag showing Trudeau getting made up to look like Trump, was repeated this year when the big mo was going for Kamala Harris this past Summer.

Even as their trajectories diverge, the uncanny intersections between Trudeau and Trump continue to offer fertile ground for commentary and reflection. In both men, we see leaders who became symbols—whether of hope, disruption, or controversy—and who now find themselves, for better or worse, etched in the political histories of their nations.

Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. Subscriptions will always be free – as long as my position remains as a staff editorial cartoonist. Thanks.

Thursday August 1, 2024

August 1, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday August 1, 2024

Link to the animated making-of clip of this cartoon.

J.D. Vance—Trump’s Liability in 2024

July 17, 2024

J.D. Vance, once seen as a strategic vice-presidential pick to bolster Trump’s appeal among the Republican base, has quickly turned into a significant liability. This sentiment is echoed by Maureen Dowd, Andrew Coyne, and Justin Webb, who collectively highlight Vance’s controversial views and missteps.

Andrew Coyne vividly characterizes Vance as a “smarter Trump,” noting that while Trump has always been defined by his “venomous ignorance,” Vance embodies a more calculated, yet equally problematic form of extremism. According to Coyne, Vance’s “wooden” demeanor and “bookish smarm” have bored and confused audiences, exacerbated by his past remarks that have alienated not just liberals but many Republicans as well. Coyne argues that Vance’s failure lies in his attempt to be the smart, strategic successor to Trump, which ironically makes him a greater liability. Unlike Trump, whose ignorance acts as a form of invulnerability, Vance’s calculated opportunism and lack of humility have made him a target for criticism.

Opinion: A smarter Trump turns out to be a weaker force

December 14, 2017

Maureen Dowd provides a starkly critical view of both Trump and Vance, suggesting that Trump’s own retrograde attitudes towards women are outdone by Vance’s “draconian and mean-spirited” views. Dowd describes Trump as stuck in a “1959 time warp,” marked by outdated and offensive perspectives on women, but Vance’s views, according to her, are even more egregious. She highlights Vance’s dismissal of women who don’t fit his traditional mold, arguing that his belief that only women in traditional marriages have a “direct stake” in America is not just archaic but “un-American.”

Dowd also criticizes Vance for his attempt to sanitize his previous derogatory comments about women, which he dismissed as mere sarcasm. She portrays Vance as embodying a modern-day “faux-billy” who tailors his beliefs to match his ambitions while projecting an image nurtured by extremist ideologies. His stance on issues like abortion and his promotion of policies targeting women’s rights further underscore his unsuitability.

Opinion: JD Vance, Purr-fectly Dreadful

April 2, 2024

Moreover, the unexpected nomination of Kamala Harris to replace Joe Biden has added to Trump’s woes. Harris has invigorated the Democratic base, as observed by Webb, presenting a sharp contrast to the Trump-Vance ticket. Harris’s campaign has gained momentum, while Trump’s appears directionless, unable to effectively counter Harris’s growing appeal.

However, Harris’s current momentum could easily be whittled down with gaffes and the inevitable dirty campaigning as time goes on. The Democratic Party’s fortunes also depend on Harris’s imminent choice of a running mate, which could further strengthen her campaign. A strong vice-presidential pick could solidify her position and highlight the eroding appeal of J.D. Vance.

Analysis: Kamala Harris has rattled Trump. Things could get really ugly

July 23, 2024

Reader reactions to Webb’s piece reinforce the notion that Trump and Vance are out of touch. Trump lacks essential qualities like wit, warmth, and wisdom, making his attacks on Harris seem desperate and out of place. Vance, meanwhile, exacerbates the situation with his own misjudgments, making him a poor choice for attracting swing voters.

As Harris rallies support and assembles a strong campaign team, Trump and Vance seem increasingly isolated. The “childless cat ladies” demographic, underestimated by Vance, might very well play a crucial role in the upcoming election, potentially tipping the scales against the Republicans. The combined effect of Vance’s unpopularity and Harris’s rising profile suggests that the GOP’s strategy is faltering, making it an uphill battle for Trump in November. (AI)