dictator – mackaycartoons

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:

Thursday March 7, 2024

March 7, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 7, 2024

Navigating the Perceptions: Trump’s Strength and Biden’s Age

Last time – March 3, 2020

As the dust settles after Super Tuesday, it is becoming increasingly evident that the 2024 U.S. presidential election is shaping up to be a rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Two recent New York Times articles provide valuable insights into the current dynamics, with Ross Douthat discussing Trump’s resurgence and Lisa Lerer and Ruth Igielnik addressing concerns about Biden’s age.

Douthat’s analysis paints a picture of Trump’s political revival, highlighting how the former president has managed to rebound from setbacks and position himself as a formidable force within the Republican Party. The key factors, according to Douthat, include the Democrats’ decision to stick with Biden, the return of liberal lawfare, and Trump’s own strategic choices to limit his public appearances and tone down his rhetoric. While some may downplay Trumpism as an unbeatable force, Douthat urges attention to the fact that defeating Trump requires success at the ballot box, rather than through investigations and legal actions.

Opinion: After Super Tuesday, Trump Is Stronger Than He’s Ever Been

February 10, 2024

On the other hand, Lerer and Igielnik’s piece delves into the growing concerns about President Biden’s age. The New York Times/Siena College poll reveals a significant shift among voters who supported Biden in 2020, with 61% now expressing worries about his age affecting his effectiveness as president. The concern is widespread across demographics, indicating that Biden has yet to dispel doubts within his own party and address Republican attacks portraying him as senile.

To navigate this electoral landscape, it is crucial for the teams surrounding each candidate to address these concerns head-on. For Trump, the challenge lies in convincing the electorate that he is not an antidemocratic authoritarian, as Douthat hints at the potential dangers of liberal lawfare. Trump’s strategic restraint and the containment of his more divisive tendencies may contribute to presenting a more palatable image to voters.

On the Biden front, the emphasis should be on countering the narrative that he is too old and unfit for the presidency. While the concerns about age are legitimate, Biden’s campaign needs to underscore his ability to make sound decisions and surround himself with a capable team. The argument that Biden’s age is a potential threat to democracy should be met with a counter-narrative that highlights the dangers of a mentally declining Trump being manipulated by hard-right allies.

Poll: Majority of Biden’s 2020 Voters Now Say He’s Too Old to Be Effective

January 25, 2024

In this potential rematch, both campaigns must confront and dispel the negative perceptions surrounding their candidates. It is not just about proving Trump is not a wannabe dictator or Biden is not a geriatric leader; it’s about constructing narratives that resonate with voters, addressing concerns head-on, and showcasing the strength and stability each candidate brings to the table.

As the election season unfolds, the success of each candidate will depend not only on their individual performances but also on the effectiveness of their campaign teams in shaping a narrative that reassures the American people about the fitness and competence of their chosen leader. (AI)

Friday February 22, 2024

February 23, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 22, 2024

Yulia Navalnaya: A Beacon of Hope Amidst Putin’s Darkness

In the aftermath of Alexei Navalny’s suspicious death, the world grapples with the continued malevolence of Vladimir Putin and the withering strength of Ukraine’s resistance against his invading army. Amidst this grim reality, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of the slain Russian dissident.

Yulia Navalnaya’s strength has not gone unnoticed. For years, she stood steadfastly by her husband’s side, a constant presence at political protests and court hearings. When Alexei Navalny was poisoned in 2020, it was Yulia who fought for clearance to fly him abroad for life-saving treatment. Now, as she faces the daunting challenge of navigating life without her husband, she boldly places herself in the political spotlight.

In a powerful video statement, Yulia Navalnaya articulates her grief, fury, and determination to carry on her husband’s cause. Her love for Alexei and her commitment to realizing his vision of a “beautiful Russia of the future” shine through the pain. For those despondent Russians opposing Putin, Yulia’s impassioned speech provides a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak landscape.

Yulia Navalnaya’s emergence as a strong and compelling figure parallels the experiences of other formidable women who have stepped into the void left by absent men in oppressive regimes. From Svetlana Tikhanovskaya in Belarus to Evgenia Kara-Murza, these women have demonstrated resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity.

While Yulia Navalnaya may currently be abroad, her voice resonates globally. Addressing EU foreign ministers, she has already garnered international support and condemnation for Putin’s role in her husband’s death. Yet, the challenges within Russia are immense, with Navalny’s political organization banned and opposition figures facing systematic oppression.

Opinion (despite omission of Yulia, giving inspiration in the above cartoon): Alexei Navalny’s untimely death has cut short his mission. Here’s how nations can take up his call

February 13, 2024

The world must not overlook the significance of Yulia Navalnaya’s call to unite against the Putin regime. Her plea for people to “punch hard” at the oppressive forces resonates with the quiet and peaceful resistance seen in the piles of flowers at memorials to Navalny across Russia.

In this critical moment, nations must heed Navalny’s call for more military support to Ukraine. It is imperative to recognize the importance of hope in the face of receding strength. Yulia Navalnaya embodies that hope, and her courageous stance should inspire a collective resolve to stand against the ruthless Vladimir Putin. In supporting Ukraine and embracing the hope symbolized by Yulia, the world can honour Alexei Navalny’s legacy and resist the darkness that threatens to engulf us all. (AI)

Saturday February 10, 2024

February 10, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 10, 2024

A Nation at a Crossroads: An Unsettling Choice in 2024

January 27, 2024

The 2024 presidential race in the United States presents a disconcerting dilemma for American voters, one that transcends traditional party lines and delves into the realms of authoritarianism and cognitive concerns. The recent CBC article, ‘Diminished faculties,’ ‘faulty memory,’ ‘significant limitations’: A damning report on Biden’s mental state, sheds light on the cognitive challenges faced by President Joe Biden. This report, coupled with the persistent spectre of Donald Trump’s authoritarian leanings, paints a grim picture for the American electorate.

The special counsel report, released amid the backdrop of Biden’s reelection campaign, details instances where the 81-year-old president struggled to recall crucial details, raising legitimate concerns about his mental acuity. The report’s findings, though legally exonerating Biden, have the potential to ravage his political standing, especially in the face of growing voter skepticism about his age and ability.

Analysis: Three-quarters of Republicans back Trump being ‘dictator for a day’

April 26, 2023

However, the complexity of the situation deepens when juxtaposed with the alternative – Donald Trump. The report draws comparisons with Trump’s actions in a similar case, highlighting clear distinctions in their approaches. While Biden cooperated with investigators, Trump allegedly did the opposite, facing allegations of lying, destroying evidence, and obstructing justice. The political discourse becomes entangled in a web of double-standards and partisan accusations, leaving voters to navigate a precarious landscape.

The irony lies in the fact that Trump, despite facing 91 criminal charges, enjoys substantial support within the Republican party. The recent survey for NBC News indicates that doubts about the mental and physical health of both candidates exist, with concerns about Biden outweighing those about Trump. It becomes a troubling realization that voters are caught between a candidate grappling with cognitive red flags and another with a penchant for authoritarian rhetoric.

News: ‘Diminished faculties,’ ‘faulty memory,’ ‘significant limitations’: A damning report on Biden’s mental state

November 17, 2022

The narrative takes a surreal turn when Trump himself entertains the notion of being a “dictator for a day.” Despite its initial formulation as a jest, the UMass Amherst poll reveals that a significant portion of Republicans views this idea positively. The acceptance of authoritarian tendencies, even if framed within a fixed time period, underscores a deeper societal divide and raises questions about the values underpinning the democratic fabric of the nation.

As the political pendulum swings, Americans are faced with an unsettling choice – one that demands introspection and careful consideration of the long-term implications for the nation. The juxtaposition of cognitive concerns and authoritarian inclinations creates a dichotomy that challenges the very essence of democratic ideals. In this critical juncture, voters must grapple not only with the candidates’ personal attributes but also with the broader implications for the future of American democracy. The 2024 election, more than ever, serves as a litmus test for the resilience of the nation’s democratic foundations. (AI)