CUSMA – Page 2 – mackaycartoons

Saturday April 25, 2026

April 25, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 25, 2026

Why Canada’s Long Game with Trump is the Right Play

In the current geopolitical climate, Canada’s decision to “rag the puck” in its dealings with the Trump administration is not only strategic but necessary. The metaphor, borrowed from hockey, captures the essence of a strategy focused on delay and prudence, allowing Canada to navigate an unpredictable and often hostile U.S. administration.

The Trump administration’s erratic policies have made negotiating practically impossible. With tariffs imposed on key Canadian sectors and the threat of further economic measures, Canada faces a challenging environment. The unpredictability of Trump’s tactics, as highlighted by former U.S. ambassador John Bolton, underscores the need for a cautious approach. Bolton emphasizes that Trump’s actions are more about trolling than serious policy, making it critical for Canada to separate immediate provocations from long- term interests.

News: John Bolton says Canada must play the long game with Trump

Canada’s strategy must consider not only the next few years but also the enduring relationship with the U.S. Despite current tensions, the geographic and economic ties between the two countries remain strong. However, as reader comments suggest, this does not mean Canada should be complacent. The historical unreliability of U.S. commitments, as evidenced by past trade disputes, justifies Canada’s focus on diversification beyond its southern neighbour.

News: ‘It takes two sides’: Canadian, U.S. officials trade remarks as CUSMA review approaches

Canada’s approach should also be informed by the global landscape. Strengthening ties with the European Union, which is pursuing strategic autonomy, and engaging with China, despite Bolton’s warnings, are part of a broader diversification strategy. While China presents its own challenges, the necessity of reducing dependence on the U.S. is clear. This sentiment is echoed by readers who argue that trade diversification is not just strategic but essential.

The experience of other U.S. allies, such as the EU and the UK, reinforces the wisdom of Canada’s cautious strategy. Quick concessions to the Trump administration have often led to unfavourable outcomes, as seen with the imposition of tariffs on European goods. Canada’s “rag the puck” approach avoids hasty deals that could compromise national interests.

Opinion: In dealing with Tariff Man, Canada’s best bet is to keep on ragging the puck

Domestically, Canada must manage economic pressures from sectors affected by U.S. tariffs while maintaining public support for its strategy. Internationally, aligning with like-minded partners offers a counterbalance to U.S. unilateralism. Coordinated efforts with the EU and other allies can enhance Canada’s leverage in negotiations.

Ultimately, Canada’s long game is about trusting the process. While it doesn’t guarantee a perfect outcome, it maximizes the odds in an unpredictable environment. By maintaining a steady course, Canada can protect its interests and emerge stronger in the long term. As the situation evolves, this strategy allows Canada the flexibility to adapt and respond to changing dynamics, ensuring that it is not only reactive but proactive in shaping its future.

Thursday April 23, 2026

April 23, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 23, 2026

Printed in The Toronto Star.

Canada’s Trade Strategy: Patience Over Panic

February 26, 2026

In March 2025, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick compared negotiating with the United States to purchasing a Costco membership: “You have to pay before you can shop.” Yet, behind the scenes in Ottawa, it’s noted that once Costco customers pay for their membership, they aren’t asked to pull out their wallet again just to walk down the meat aisle. This transactional analogy highlights the current U.S. administration’s approach to trade, one that Canada must navigate with strategic caution.

News: Mark Carney unveils new trade advisory council as critical talks loom

Mark Carney’s initiative to establish a Canada‑U.S. trade advisory council is a commendable step forward. Bringing together a diverse group of former ministers, business leaders, and union representatives demonstrates a strategic, unified approach to navigating the complex and often turbulent trade waters with the United States. The Globe and Mail and Toronto Star rightly highlight this council’s potential to bolster domestic consensus and expertise, especially in areas like digital policy where Canada must play catch-up.

News: Washington demanding ‘entry fee’ from Ottawa before trade talks: sources

December 11, 2025

However, while the council’s foundation is strong, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The Trump administration’s approach to trade negotiations, particularly the concept of an “entry fee” for talks, underscores a transactional mindset that diverges from traditional diplomatic norms. As CBC reports, this demand for upfront concessions, despite Canada’s previous gestures of goodwill, like shelving a digital services tax, reveals a troubling shift away from reciprocal, rules-based trade.

The involvement of figures like Howard Lutnick, coupled with the New York Times’ portrayal of Trump’s tactics as kleptocratic, raises serious concerns about the integrity and stability of any potential agreements. When trade becomes a transactional exercise focused on immediate gains rather than long-term mutual benefits, trust erodes, and the risk of unstable, asymmetrical deals increases.

NYT: Trump Holds the American People in Total Contempt

August 28, 2025

In this context, Canada’s best strategy may be to buy time. Engage in performative talks and phased negotiations, not as a form of capitulation, but as a strategic play. As seen in the stalled Iran-U.S. negotiations reported by Al Jazeera and TIME, mutual distrust can derail meaningful progress. By taking a long game approach, Canada can wait out the current political climate until post-midterm elections potentially usher in a more stable and predictable negotiating environment.

Canada must focus on transparency, enforceable commitments, and coordinated federal-provincial efforts to avoid being cornered into premature concessions. The advisory council should craft resilient strategies, including legal safeguards and diversified market approaches, to protect Canadian interests.

Ultimately, while the advisory council is a crucial tool, Canadians must temper expectations about immediate breakthroughs. Lutnick’s notion of trade as a pay-to-play scenario underscores the absurdity of current U.S. tactics, where demands for entry fees defy logic by expecting repeated payments for mere participation. By exercising patience, maintaining transparency, and avoiding hasty concessions, Canada can better position itself for a more balanced and fair engagement when the political winds shift. In the face of such transactional trade tactics, patience isn’t just a virtue, it’s a strategic necessity.

Saturday November 1, 2025

November 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday November 1, 2025

Canada Between Giants

October 29, 2025

Canada finds itself in a delicate balancing act on the global stage, dealing with a complex relationship with China amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The recent meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Xi Jinping could mark a turning point, highlighting the need for Canada to engage pragmatically with this rising power despite a list of grievances.

A major concern is China’s alleged interference in Canadian elections, which has been closely scrutinized. This interference underscores the broader challenge of working with a nation whose political values often clash with Canadian principles.

News: Carney says meeting with Xi marks turning point in Canada-China relationship

April 2, 2025

However, the geopolitical reality is clear: with the U.S. shifting focus and applying economic pressure on allies, Canada must diversify its economic partnerships. Tariffs imposed by the U.S. and resulting tensions show that Canada can’t rely solely on its southern neighbour.

A critical decision involves whether Canada will align with U.S. tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. These tariffs have prompted Chinese retaliations affecting Canadian pork and canola exports, creating significant strain. Removing them could ease trade tensions with China but risks increasing friction with the U.S., putting the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) at risk.

Engaging with China becomes a necessity. Canada’s task is to find mutual benefits in trade and growth while safeguarding its security and democratic institutions. This requires a nuanced approach, addressing threats like cyber attacks and political interference while seeking cooperation in clean energy and technology.

June 2, 2023

Diplomacy here means finding common ground without compromising core values. Canada must engage in dialogue to foster understanding and build a stable international order. As this complex relationship unfolds, Canada needs a clear strategy that prioritizes national interests, economic resilience, and democratic values.

In this era of geopolitical uncertainty, Canada’s relationship with China will test its diplomatic skill and strategic planning. By maintaining a principled yet pragmatic approach, Canada can strive for a balanced relationship that acknowledges global realities while upholding its own values and interests.

Cozying up to a Better Beast

If you’re Canadian and feeling a bit of whiplash about our stance on China versus the United States, you’re definitely not alone. Not too long ago, China was under the spotlight for allegedly meddling in our elections, using threats against the Chinese diaspora to push their influence. Fast forward, and now it seems the tables have turned, thanks to the U.S. President, who’s quite the expert in stirring the pot. His notorious comments have shifted the dynamic and soured what was a long-standing partnership between our countries. For many Canadians, myself included, who once felt a strong camaraderie with the U.S., the situation has changed. Despite China’s issues, it now appears more respectful of Canada’s sovereignty, something that seems to baffle Donald Trump and his supporters.

Featured in Home Runs and High Stakes a weekly review of editorial cartoons in my Saturday Newsletter, The Graeme Gallery.

Friday September 5, 2025

September 5, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

September 5, 2025

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday September 5, 2025

Why Carney’s Strategy Deserves Patience

August 30, 2025

In the volatile landscape of North American politics and economics, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government faces a formidable challenge: steering Canada through choppy waters while maintaining its economic sovereignty. Despite criticism, often fuelled by partisanship and impatience, the government’s strategies warrant a closer look and a degree of patience.

Carney’s administration has not been idle. The removal of the carbon tax and firm commitments to national defence mark significant policy shifts from the previous Trudeau government. Efforts to dismantle interprovincial trade barriers reflect a proactive approach to fostering economic unity within Canada. Yet, the narrative of “announcements about announcements” persists, painting an image of inaction that belies the strategic groundwork being laid.

News: Carney says his ministers are looking for ways to cut spending at cabinet retreat

August 7, 2025

Central to Canada’s current economic strategy is its precarious relationship with the United States. The unpredictability of the Trump administration has complicated bilateral trade, with tariffs disrupting the flow of goods and inflating costs on both sides of the border. Carney’s decision to lift certain retaliatory tariffs, while maintaining others, is a calculated maneuver aimed at preserving the CUSMA trade relationship. This move, though criticized as coddling, seeks to minimize economic damage and keep critical dialogues open.

Critics argue that Carney’s “elbows up” approach has softened, yet this perspective overlooks the broader strategic context. The administration’s tactical reversals and negotiations reflect an understanding of the intricate dynamics at play. By buying time, Carney appears to be waiting for the tide to turn—a strategy that might prove prudent as Trump’s tariff policies increasingly strain American consumers and businesses.

July 24, 2025

It’s challenging to critique a new government that is decisively different from its predecessor. Despite carrying the Liberal banner, Carney’s administration occupies a centrist position on the political spectrum. Enacting measures like “axing the tax” demonstrates a willingness to adopt Conservative policies when they align with national interests, underscoring a pragmatic approach to governance.

Analysis: Mark Carney lifted some tariffs against the U.S. Was that a wise tactical move, or a bad blunder?

The upcoming budget will be a litmus test for Carney’s government, offering insights into its long-term vision and policy direction. This moment presents an opportunity to transition from planning to action, addressing the impatience of Canadians eager for concrete results. The government’s ability to balance austerity with investment will be crucial in shaping Canada’s economic future.

As we await the budget, it is essential to recognize the complexity of the challenges facing Carney’s government. The strategy of measured patience, while frustrating for some, is rooted in a pragmatic assessment of Canada’s geopolitical realities. In navigating these turbulent times, the government deserves a measure of slack, as it carefully orchestrates Canada’s path forward amidst a changing global landscape.

The bells of the sharpening truck ring louder

January 24, 2023

I totally get why people are feeling impatient with Mark Carney. Ever since Justin Trudeau stepped down, Poilievre’s supporters have been eager for action, and Carney’s big promises helped him win the election less than five months ago. He’s still doing well in the polls, but if you check out the comment sections on articles about him, you’ll see a lot of partisan chatter accusing him of being all talk and no action—some even call him a failure, asking, “Whatever happened to elbows up?”

Part of this seems tied to the mockery Poilievre faced for his catchy slogans like “ax the tax.” Many Canadians do understand that the hostile U.S. President makes things tricky. Carney has enjoyed a bit of a honeymoon period over the summer while Poilievre worked on bouncing back from his embarrassing defeat and aimed for a safe Conservative seat. But next month, the so-called “no action PM” is likely to reveal his hand with his economic policy. Those who accuse him of just talking will probably see some significant moves, unlike anything we’ve seen from the big-spending governments in Ottawa. People demanding action might find themselves regretting it when an austerity-focused budget is unveiled.

Thursday August 7, 2025

August 7, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday August 7, 2025

Canada and Mexico’s Strategic Partnership Amid Uncertainty

August 1, 2025

In the ever-shifting landscape of international trade, Canada and Mexico find themselves bound by shared challenges and opportunities. As the third-largest trading partner to Canada, Mexico holds a position of strategic importance. This relationship is not merely transactional; it is a cornerstone of economic resilience and diplomatic collaboration. Recent discussions between Canadian and Mexican officials underscore the necessity of maintaining robust diplomatic channels, particularly as both nations navigate the unpredictable leadership of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) serves as a critical framework for North American trade, offering a buffer against economic volatility. Yet, under Trump’s administration, this stability has been tested by aggressive tariff policies and an often unpredictable negotiation style. The recent meetings in Mexico, as reported, highlight the urgency for Canada and Mexico to reinforce their alliance. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand’s visit to Mexico City was more than a diplomatic exercise; it was a strategic maneuver to solidify a united front.

News: Ministers Champagne, Anand in Mexico to strengthen countries’ ties

December 11, 2002

Reader comments and expert opinions echo a common sentiment: While Trump’s tactics may be erratic, the shared interests of Canada and Mexico in maintaining supply chain integrity and ensuring the survival of the USMCA are paramount. Mexico’s adept handling of its relationship with Trump, exemplified by President Claudia Sheinbaum’s ability to secure a temporary tariff reprieve, offers valuable lessons. Her diplomatic finesse contrasts with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s more calculated approach, yet both aim for the same end—preserving economic stability and mutual benefit.

Moreover, Canada and Mexico share parallels in their experiences as targets of Trump’s rhetoric. Mexicans have long endured derogatory labels such as “bad hombres,” “drug dealers,” and “rapists,” while Canadians have been dismissed as “nasty” and provocatively suggested to be the 51st state. These shared experiences of disdain and insult only strengthen the resolve of both nations to collaborate more closely, standing firm against divisive tactics.

The automotive sector, a linchpin of Canada-Mexico trade, exemplifies the interdependence that necessitates cooperation. With vehicles and auto parts constituting significant portions of bilateral trade, any disruption in this sector could reverberate across both economies. Thus, the commitment to build resilient supply chains and explore joint economic initiatives is not just beneficial—it is essential.

News: Liberal cabinet ministers defend Canada’s U.S. trade strategy in Mexico

November 18, 2021

The broader narrative, as reflected in public discourse, is one of cautious optimism. While some view Trump’s actions as a direct threat to Canada’s economic interests, others see an opportunity to diversify trade relationships and reduce over-reliance on the U.S. market. This dual approach—resilience through diversification and unity in negotiation—positions Canada and Mexico as proactive rather than reactive players on the global stage.

The relationship between Canada and Mexico is more than a bilateral trade partnership; it is a strategic alliance fortified by common goals and shared challenges. As both nations work to manage their interactions with the U.S., the focus must remain on sustaining the free trade system that has benefited them both. Through collaboration and diplomatic agility, Canada and Mexico can not only weather the current storm but also emerge stronger and more unified in their economic pursuits.

Managing the Bull

April 20, 2017

Mexico is a crucial trading partner for Canada, ranking as our third largest, which makes it essential to keep our diplomatic ties strong and friendly. Both Canada and Mexico share the goal of maintaining stable supply chains and managing the unpredictable challenges posed by Trump. Our aim is to ensure that the USMCA, and the free trade benefits it provides, survives his presidency.

Geographically, Mexico and Canada act as bookends to what is hopefully a temporary disruption in a peaceful and cooperative relationship that has historically benefited all three countries, including the U.S. It’s in everyone’s interest to return to a neighbourly existence, one that’s currently being overshadowed by toxic attitudes rooted in greed, selfishness, and bigotry. These attitudes disregard the principles of fair trade, cooperation, goodwill, and the urgent need for a better environmental path.

Canada and Mexico are committed to managing the hostility and uncivil behaviour of a problematic president and his narrow-minded followers. We hold onto the hope that, over time, Americans will recognize the negative impact of their leader’s actions, learn from it, and steer the country back toward a more positive and cooperative global role.