elections – mackaycartoons

Thursday February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday February 6, 2025 (Also, The Toronto Star)

Breaking Down Barriers: A Call to Action for Canada’s Internal Trade

December 18, 2024

With U.S. tariffs looming large on the horizon, Canada stands at a critical juncture. The temporary reprieve from these trade threats offers a golden opportunity to strengthen our domestic economy by dismantling the interprovincial trade barriers that have long hindered our growth. Now, more than ever, all levels of Canadian government must turn political rhetoric into tangible action.

Transport and Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre both recognize the crucial need to boost internal trade. Anand is making strides by promoting mutual recognition of regulations and enhancing labor mobility across provinces. Meanwhile, Poilievre has proposed a “free trade bonus” to incentivize provinces to eliminate trade barriers, promising financial rewards based on the economic benefits of deregulation.
The potential rewards are significant. Studies suggest that removing these barriers could add up to $200 billion annually to Canada’s GDP, translating into substantial savings for Canadian families and a stronger, more resilient economy. Deloitte’s report even estimates that families could save over $6,000 each year by reducing these barriers.

News: Interprovincial trade barriers: what they are, why they exist and how to cut them

January 17, 2025

However, the path forward is fraught with challenges. The Canadian Free Trade Agreement remains bogged down with exceptions that prevent the free flow of goods like alcohol and cannabis. Furthermore, some provinces and industries benefit from these barriers and may resist change. Public comments often highlight skepticism about provinces like Quebec and Ontario, which have been slow to embrace free trade ideals.

To overcome these obstacles, a unified, bipartisan effort is essential. Provinces must put aside regional protectionism and collaborate with the federal government to standardize regulations and enhance labor mobility. This includes addressing professional licensing standards, as suggested by Poilievre’s proposed “Blue Seal” certification, and ensuring that procurement and transportation rules are consistent across the country.

Beyond economic benefits, breaking down these barriers will make Canada more resilient against global market changes and reduce costs for consumers. By fostering a more integrated national market, we can enhance our competitiveness and create a more dynamic business environment.

News: Canada can do ‘substantial’ work fast on internal trade, minister says

January 24, 2025

As we approach provincial elections, it’s crucial for candidates to prioritize these issues. For too long, interprovincial trade barriers have been a topic of discussion without meaningful action. Voters should demand more than just promises; they should insist on concrete plans and timelines for change. Provincial leaders need to commit to working collaboratively with the federal government to streamline regulations and improve trade and labor mobility across the country.

Voters must hold candidates accountable, challenging them to pledge specific measures and deadlines for reducing these barriers. By prioritizing action over rhetoric, we can transform longstanding challenges into opportunities for economic growth and stability.

Comment: We’ll believe Ontario is ‘Team Canada’ on interprovincial trade when we see it

Now is the time for decisive action. The passion and urgency generated by external threats should fuel our commitment to dismantle internal barriers. By doing so, we can turn a moment of uncertainty into an opportunity for lasting growth and stability. Canada must seize this chance to fortify its economy from within, ensuring that we not only weather global market shifts but thrive in their wake. It’s time for provinces to step up and deliver real progress, ensuring that Canada is not only prepared for global market shifts but also thriving from within.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the talk of removing interprovincial trade barriers may seem dull, but it’s crucial for the provinces to work on this for the benefit of consumers and the strength of our country. For too long, provincial premiers have maintained bureaucratic and protectionist barriers that offer no benefit to consumers, making it easier for Canadian businesses to trade with foreign countries than within their own nation. It’s absurd, and it demands hard work, time, negotiation, and a commitment to cutting through the red tape. In Ontario, there’s even a minister of red tape reduction, and this issue should be at the top of their agenda. With the current economic tensions, including a 30 day “ceasefire,” mere tears, booing national anthems and other theatrics simply won’t suffice. We need real action, and especially in the midst of a provincial elections, politicians should focus on eliminating these barriers when they aren’t kissing babies. All provincial leaders must prioritize this issue—it’s the one thing they can truly address. It may not be a sexy issue, and it won’t grab headlines when a small business gains more economic freedom, but dismantling interprovincial trade barriers is essential. It requires hard work, and this is precisely what we expect from our politicians, especially in times of crisis. Voters need to demand this every day of the election campaign, and it must become a pledged commitment by all leaders. Let’s push for meaningful change where it counts!

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 6, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday January 23, 2025

January 23, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday January 23, 2025

Tick-Tock Politics: Canada’s Countdown to Change

November 3, 2012

As we stand on the cusp of significant political and economic shifts in Canada, the ticking of countdown clocks marks the passage of time toward crucial, and in some cases, hopeful events. Yet, the underlying tension builds toward a climactic moment that some see as a date of doom—the anticipated rise of Pierre Poilievre and his Conservative Party in the upcoming federal election.

Countdown to Trump Tariffs: With February 1 looming, the potential imposition of 25% tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump hangs like a sword over Canada’s economic heartland. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, considering a snap election to secure a mandate to combat these threats, embodies one aspect of the countdown frenzy. Ford’s rhetoric suggests a new era of strategic alliances and economic fortresses, yet critics argue that his approach is opportunistic, diverting attention from immediate challenges.

News: The price of playing tough on tariffs

December 11, 2024

Countdown to the End of the GST Tax Holiday: As the temporary tax relief expires on February 15, Canadians brace for a return to higher prices, even as inflation shows signs of easing. This countdown marks not just an economic adjustment but a reminder of the delicate balance governments must strike in managing fiscal policy and public welfare.

Countdown to the Carbon Tax’s Demise: The Liberal leadership race sees candidates distancing themselves from Trudeau’s carbon tax, a policy once heralded as a cornerstone of environmental progress. As figures like Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney navigate the turbulent waters of leadership ambition, the countdown to March 9—the day a new leader is chosen—signals a potential shift in Canada’s climate strategy. Yet, this change brings hope for innovative approaches to emissions reduction, even as it raises questions about future environmental commitments.

News: The carbon tax is (nearly) dead. Now what?

Countdown to Provincial and Federal Elections: The prospect of an early Ontario election juxtaposes with the broader anticipation of a federal election where Poilievre’s Conservatives are poised to capture the hearts of Canadians. In this political theatre, the countdowns represent both a culmination of current tensions and a beacon of hope for those seeking change.

News: Doug Ford could call early Ontario election as soon as next week

December 5, 2024

As these countdowns unfold, the rise of Pierre Poilievre emerges as a focal point—a final date of doom for some, a new dawn for others. Poilievre’s silence on key issues like Trump’s tariffs may be strategic, yet it leaves a vacuum of leadership in a time of uncertainty. His potential victory reflects a broader desire for change, a challenge to the status quo that many Canadians feel has faltered in addressing economic and social concerns.

Yet, this moment of reckoning is not without its complexities. The countdown clocks remind us that change is both inevitable and multifaceted. It is a dance between hope and apprehension, a balancing act of leadership, policy, and public sentiment. As Canada prepares to navigate these pivotal moments, the path forward requires not just political acumen but a vision that transcends immediate challenges to embrace a future of unity and resilience.

In the end, these countdowns are more than mere markers of time—they are catalysts for transformation, urging us to reflect on what truly matters in the unfolding narrative of Canada’s political landscape. Whether the rise of Poilievre heralds doom or opportunity, one thing is certain: the clocks are ticking, and the future is in our hands.

If you’ve ever been a parent, you’re likely familiar with the criticism some receive for over-scheduling their children. You can imagine the parents of those over-scheduled kids grumbling about the parents who allow their kids too much free time. Personally, I preferred to strike a balance as a parent—scheduling activities while also giving my children the freedom to explore and enjoy their own interests. That’s how I liked it when I was a kid.

Now, as an adult, I often feel like I’m being over-scheduled—not by parents, but by politicians. While I’m not obliged to comply with their agendas, being an engaged citizen often means going along with the flow and responding to the demands they place upon us.

At present, we find ourselves in a whirlwind of political activity. With a Prime Minister nearing the end of his political rope and three serious candidates vying for leadership ahead of a March 9 decision, Ontario is also gearing up for a snap provincial election. Simultaneously, we have to contend with the antics and whims of an erratic President Donald Trump, along with the inevitable focus on a federal election campaign that will bring about significant changes and the adjustments that come with a new government.

Canada stands on the brink of substantial political and economic shifts, marked by critical upcoming events such as the potential imposition of U.S. tariffs, the end of the GST tax holiday, and ditching of carbon tax policy. These factors create a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities, with political leaders like Doug Ford and Pierre Poilievre navigating the situation as provincial and federal elections loom. As Poilievre’s Conservatives seem poised for a rise, the nation finds itself caught between hope for change and the anxiety of the unknown. These countdowns are not just simple timelines; they represent the transformative potential and uncertainty inherent in Canada’s evolving political narrative.

Those who lament their children’s over-scheduling often warn about the lasting detrimental effects it can have. The same concern can be applied to the potential harm that overzealous leaders may inflict on our country.

Please enjoy the making-of reel of my January 23, 2025 editorial cartoon:

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday March 2, 2023

March 2, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 2, 2023

Trudeau slaps down questions about public inquiry into election meddling

February 25, 2023

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pushed back at questions Friday about calling a public inquiry into claims that Beijing interfered in Canada’s recent elections, telling reporters that the probes already underway are sufficient.

Trudeau is under pressure from his political opponents to launch an inquiry after media reports citing unnamed sources said the Chinese communist regime has co-opted some Canadian politicians. A Commons committee passed a motion Thursday in an attempt to compel the government to act.

Speaking to reporters at a child care announcement in Winnipeg, an animated Trudeau said his government has been seized with the issue of foreign interference for years and put in place a system to actively monitor meddling by China and other bad actors.

When asked why he won’t call an inquiry now, Trudeau said senior public servants working on the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol (CEIPP) already have reviewed the 2019 and 2021 campaigns and concluded that, while there was some Chinese interference, those actions did not compromise the final outcomes.

During the news conference, Trudeau appeared to be annoyed by reporters repeating questions about the calls for an inquiry.

February 20, 2021

Former senior public servant Morris Rosenberg released his review of the 2021 campaign earlier this week.

He found that the Government of Canada did not detect foreign interference that threatened Canada’s ability to hold free and fair elections in 2019 and 2021. He also offered a series of recommendations meant to prevent foreign interference in the future.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has said the Rosenberg report isn’t credible because Rosenberg previously held a role with the Trudeau Foundation, a non-profit named for the prime minister’s father. That foundation also received a $200,000 donation from an individual with ties to China’s government — money that was returned this week.

Trudeau said Friday the public service picked Rosenberg for the job — and his government had no role in the appointment.

December 5, 2017

Trudeau also pointed out that the House of Commons procedure and House affairs committee is also in the midst of its own probe and the top-secret National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians (NSICOP), which was created by the Liberal government, is reviewing all of the intelligence about the 2021 vote.

“All of these processes are going on and demonstrate the seriousness with which this government and this country needs to take the question of foreign interference,” Trudeau said.

“Canadians can have confidence in our institutions, in our democracies and our ability to defend ourselves.” (CBC)

Wednesday September 12, 2018

September 11, 2018 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday September 12, 2018

Local elections getting lost in the sound and fury

Between Doug Ford’s unprecedented antics at Queen’s Park, Donald Trump’s daily bombastic proclamations and NAFTA negotiations, it’s little wonder local elections — in Hamilton and across Ontario — are being drowned out. But it’s time for that to change.

Our municipal governments have more impact on our day-to-day lives than their more senior brethren. Yes, they’re at the bottom of the food chain — as Ford has so brazenly demonstrated — but they deliver front-line services. Our sidewalks and roads, our safe water supply, public transit, recreational centres and parks, waste disposal, libraries, animal control, tax collection — these and a host of other services and costs flow directly from city hall.

And every four years, we have a chance to pass judgment on the current city council. We can endorse them, collectively or individually. We can change out people we’re not happy with. We can clean house if that’s appropriate (even though we get to vote only for our respective ward councillor, mayor and school trustees).

So while Ford and Trump may be more dramatic (and melodramatic), it behooves us to pay attention to what’s coming up on Monday, Oct. 22. The Spectator has already begun to do that, and we plan to ramp up our coverage beginning this week.

Bottom line: If you live here, pay taxes, raise kids, retire, and you’re an engaged citizen, these elections matter. Don’t miss the opportunity to get involved in local democracy.(Continued: Hamilton Spectator Editorial)

Thursday August 23, 2018

August 22, 2018 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday August 23, 2018

To impeach or not to impeach? Capitol Hill weighs the question after Cohen plea

Testimony from President Trump’s former longtime personal lawyer Michael Cohen on Tuesday that Mr. Trump directed him to violate campaign finance law — claims he made as he pleaded guilty to two counts of campaign finance violations — renewed questions on Capitol Hill about the possibility of impeachment.

Cohen is not the only former Trump associate to be convicted of a crime — former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort was found guilty of financial fraud-related crimes on Tuesday, former national security adviser Mike Flynn is awaiting sentencing, and former Trump campaign aide George Papadopoulos has pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI. But Cohen’s allegations point back to the president directly.

A number of Democrats are still being cautious on the possibility of pursuing impeachment. For Republicans, a top GOP aide tells CBS News Correspondent Nancy Cordes, “This is the most uncomfortable Republicans have been” about the president’s actions, but they still don’t plan to take more decisive action than they have in the past.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said impeaching Mr. Trump is “not a priority” for Democrats, telling the Associated Press after the Cohen and Manafort court decisions that “impeachment has to spring from something else.” Pelosi said she prefers that Democrats — if they take the House come November — conduct oversight hearings and let special counsel Robert Mueller do his job.

“I think that everyone is a little cautious about throwing around impeachment” — at least before the midterms, a Democratic strategist told CBS News. But if Democrats get win the House, that could change, the strategist added.

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, said Cohen’s claims are serious and troubling — but it’s “premature” to discuss impeachment, because “more information has to come forward” and it’s “too early in the process to be using these words.”

However, Durbin warned of a “constitutional crisis” should Mr. Trump attempt to fire Mueller. (Source: CBS News)