density – mackaycartoons

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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Saturday March 23, 2024

March 23, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

March 23, 2024

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 23, 2024

Doug Ford’s Misguided Crusade Against Four-plexes

February 22, 2024

In the realm of housing policy, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has positioned himself as a knight in shining armour, valiantly defending the sanctity of single dwellings against the perceived onslaught of four-plexes. However, this gallant facade crumbles upon closer inspection, revealing a shortsighted approach that threatens to exacerbate the very housing issues he claims to champion.

Ford’s staunch opposition to four-plexes reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the complex challenges facing Ontario’s housing market. By clinging to outdated notions of urban development, he perpetuates a narrative that pits single-family homes against denser housing options, failing to recognize the symbiotic relationship between the two.

News: Premier Ford says it’s a ‘massive mistake’ to impose four-plexes across Ontario

October 31, 2023

At the heart of Ford’s aversion to four-plexes lies a fear of community backlash and a misguided belief that denser housing will inevitably lead to chaos and discontent. Yet, this fear is unfounded, as numerous cities around the world have successfully integrated four-plexes and similar housing solutions into their neighborhoods, enriching communities and increasing affordability in the process.

May 12, 2023

Moreover, Ford’s refusal to embrace four-plexes ignores the pressing need for more diverse housing options in Ontario. With housing affordability reaching crisis levels and many residents priced out of the market, it is imperative that policymakers prioritize solutions that expand access to affordable housing for all Ontarians. Four-plexes offer a practical and scalable solution to this pressing issue, providing an opportunity to increase housing supply while simultaneously fostering vibrant and inclusive communities.

By turning a blind eye to the potential benefits of four-plexes, Ford not only fails to address the root causes of Ontario’s housing crisis but also perpetuates a system that prioritizes the interests of a select few over the well-being of the broader population. His refusal to adapt to changing demographics and housing needs speaks volumes about his commitment to serving the people of Ontario.

Opinion: Doug Ford hates urban density. That’s not the only reason I love it

November 23, 2022

Doug Ford’s crusade against four-plexes is a misguided endeavour that undermines efforts to address Ontario’s housing affordability crisis. Rather than clinging to outdated ideologies, Ford must embrace innovative solutions that expand access to affordable housing and foster sustainable, inclusive communities. It’s time for Ford to lay down his lance and recognize that in the battle for affordable housing, four-plexes are not the enemy, but rather a crucial ally in securing a brighter future for all Ontarians. (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: