Donald Trump – Page 7 – mackaycartoons

Saturday May 9, 2026

May 9, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, NOT PUBLISHED in The Hamilton Spectator (rejected) – Saturday May 9, 2026

Mother’s Day Mourning: Global Setbacks for Women’s Health

May 7, 2022

As we celebrate Mother’s Day, it’s a good time to think about how policies affect moms everywhere. The Trump administration made some choices that hit women’s rights and maternal health hard, both in the U.S. and globally.

At home, efforts to cut the Affordable Care Act and defund Planned Parenthood put essential healthcare services at risk. Women lost access to crucial care like maternity services and birth control. Abroad, the expansion of the global gag rule meant cutting funding for organizations that provide essential reproductive health services. Clinics closed, leaving millions without safe options for contraception and abortion, leading to dangerous outcomes.

Analysis: The Trump administration has gutted US aid for family planning. Here’s how it’s impacting women overseas

In places like Kenya, the pullback of U.S. aid left women without birth control and basic health services. This forced many into risky situations. Reports from Mozambique and Malawi show more teen pregnancies and health problems that should have been under control.

Despite saying he supported women, Trump’s actions leaned more towards political beliefs than focusing on public health. Cutting family planning funds ignored the needs of women and their families, trapping them in cycles of poverty and limiting young girls’ futures.

The issue of mifepristone access shows the uncertainty around reproductive rights. With the Supreme Court involved, there’s a real threat of further restrictions without a clear stance from Trump.
On Mother’s Day, while we honour the strength of moms, it’s crucial to acknowledge policies that undermine their rights. Trump’s decisions have rolled back progress, putting ideology above the health and futures of women. This is a call for action to focus on women’s health, ensuring future generations have the freedom to thrive.

News: Melania Trump sends crowd into laughter while praising President Trump’s ‘empathy’

December 14, 2017

These challenges remind us that the fight for women’s rights isn’t over. It’s about global commitment to fairness and access for all women. Watching from outside the U.S., it’s clear these policies affect everyone, underlining the need for shared responsibility to support women’s rights worldwide.

Thursday May 7, 2026

May 7, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 7, 2026

Also posted to Counterpoint. Published in The Wenatchee World.

Trump’s Market Tango

March 7 2026

In the theatre of global politics, President Trump’s rhetoric on Iran has become a case study in volatility — not just of words, but of markets. The recurring narrative of threats followed by declarations of peace, only to be contradicted by further threats, has left consumers and observers alike dizzy and distrustful.

Since the conflict with Iran began, Trump’s statements have swung from aggressive war cries to sudden assertions of peace. His latest assertion that “the war is over” rings hollow, especially when missiles continue to fly and the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains tightly controlled by Iran. This dichotomy has become all too familiar, echoing the tale of the “Boy Who Cried Wolf,” where each subsequent claim is met with increasing skepticism.

News: Oil prices extend slide as Trump flags possible Iran peace deal

April 22, 2026

The consequences of this rhetorical volatility are starkly visible in the oil markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy trade, remains closed. This has pushed oil prices to new heights, benefiting producers and investors at the expense of consumers. For those in the oil business, these fluctuations are lucrative opportunities; for ordinary consumers, they spell higher fuel costs and economic strain.

October 2, 2018

Critics argue that Trump’s erratic statements serve a purpose beyond diplomacy. With investigations by the CFTC and DOJ into suspiciously timed trades, allegations of market manipulation gain traction. The idea that decisions on war and diplomacy might be influenced by potential market gains for insiders is not just a conspiracy theory — it’s a concern echoed by economists and lawmakers alike.

News: White House Insists Iran War Is Over, Even While Missiles Fly

January 18, 2025

The beneficiaries of this environment are clear: oil producers, investors with foresight, and perhaps those with insider information. The losers, meanwhile, are the everyday consumers facing the brunt of rising gas prices. This dichotomy feeds the narrative that Trump, who often embodies wealth and power, may be more interested in aiding cronies than in broader economic stability.

As the rhetoric continues, so too does the call for accountability and transparency. The market’s reaction to political statements should not be a tool for enrichment at the public’s expense. It’s crucial that regulators, journalists, and the public keep a vigilant eye on the interplay between politics and market movements. Only then can we ensure that the art of the deal doesn’t become the art of the spin.

Thursday April 30, 2026

April 30, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 30, 2026

A Serious Assault on Freedom

The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel from ABC reveals Trump's administration using presidential power to silence critics, despite its proclaimed support for free speech.

September 19, 2025

Political crusades against satire are unfolding before our eyes, posing a serious threat to freedom of speech and press freedom. The pursuit of Jimmy Kimmel by the Trump administration is heavy-handed and over-the-top, particularly when considering the broader context. As the U.S. grapples with a crisis in Iran—leading to a blockade of the Persian Gulf and soaring prices of oil, jet fuel, medical supplies, and fertilizer—one wonders why the President is investing energy in silencing comedians instead of addressing these pressing issues.

News: Trump administration challenges ABC station licenses amid Kimmel controversy

This distraction comes on the heels of a visit from King Charles III, highlighting the contrast between diplomatic duties and the administration’s focus on personal grievances. As the country faces a severe cost of living crisis, the President’s priorities seem misaligned. If the same vigour were applied to tackling affordability issues, perhaps real progress could be made.

The timing of this pursuit is particularly ironic as World Press Freedom Day approaches on May 3. Instead of stifling voices, this move will likely embolden Kimmel and others, offering them the satirical treasure of drawing ire from those in power. This attention only boosts their platform and ratings—lucky for Jimmy Kimmel.

Opinion: Why is Jimmy Kimmel being held to a higher standard than Donald Trump?

April 22, 2026

Media figures like Stephen Colbert have shown solidarity, humorously passing the torch of satire with his “Iran War Jokes” box, underscoring the absurdity of blaming comedians for political woes. Meanwhile, articles from The Guardian and The Toronto Star have pointed out the hypocrisy in holding satirists to higher standards than political leaders who engage in inflammatory rhetoric themselves.

As press freedom advocates argue, this is more than a celebrity squabble; it’s a chilling attempt to intimidate and control media narratives. The FCC’s unusual actions against ABC signal a dangerous precedent where regulatory power is wielded for political ends.

News: Stephen Colbert Sends Jimmy Kimmel a Box of ‘Iran War Jokes’

Ultimately, satire plays a crucial role in challenging authority and comforting the afflicted by afflicting the comfortable. In attempting to silence Kimmel, the administration inadvertently shines a spotlight on its own vulnerabilities and missteps, fuelling the very satire it seeks to suppress. This saga serves as a reminder of the essential role satire plays in a healthy democracy, and why it must remain fiercely protected.

Saturday April 25, 2026

April 25, 2026 by Graeme MacKay

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

Also published in The Winnipeg Sun, and Kenora Miner & News.

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

February 22, 2025

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

December 3, 2024

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

August 7, 2025

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.

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.