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Elon Musk

Saturday March 22, 2025

March 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Rising trade tensions and controversial figures spark vandalism against Tesla in Canada, reflecting deep-rooted socio-political unrest.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 22, 2025

The Tesla Turmoil in Canada

The convergence of Elon Musk’s influence over U.S. elections, Donald Trump’s authoritarian ambitions, and Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical agenda feels eerily like the unfolding of a real-life James Bond thriller, with democracy and global security hanging in the balance.

October 26, 2024

In recent years, the relationship between the United States and Canada has been strained, largely due to the actions and policies of former President Donald Trump. His approach of using “economic force” has led to unintended and destructive consequences, sparking unrest and acts reminiscent of guerilla warfare.

News: Canadians Turn on Tesla, and It Becomes Physical

The tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imposed by the Trump administration marked a significant shift away from the cooperative spirit of the USMCA free trade agreement. Hamilton, Ontario, a key player in Canada’s steel industry, has been hit hard by these measures. By ignoring the principles of trust and goodwill in the USMCA, Trump has not only damaged diplomatic ties but also ignited resentment and resistance among Canadians.

The final report on foreign interference in Canada reveals serious threats from various nations, yet it's the economic pressures from Trump's policies that unexpectedly drive Canada's political focus.

January 28, 2025

Adding to the tension, Trump’s comments about Canada becoming the 51st state have stirred unease. Such remarks, whether serious or not, undermine the sovereignty and pride of Canada, a long-standing ally. Coupled with Elon Musk’s alleged statement that “Canada is not a real country,” these actions suggest a troubling disregard for Canada’s independence.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and an advisor to Trump, has become a divisive figure in this narrative. Known for his controversial behaviour, Musk has been given the task of drastically reducing the U.S. federal workforce. His influence extends beyond business, as he uses his social media platform to spread information that some believe interferes with democratic processes. Musk’s rhetoric against Canada, including the alleged remark that “Canada is not a real country,” has only intensified the animosity. For many Canadians, Musk represents a direct threat to their sovereignty and democracy.

The inauguration of Donald Trump in the Capitol Rotunda, a site of past chaos, highlights the deepening divides and fears surrounding his administration while Biden's preemptive pardons attempt to shield his adversaries from potential retribution against a backdrop of oligarchic influence.

January 21, 2025

The backlash against Musk in Canada has been swift and intense. In Hamilton, more than 80 Teslas were vandalized, seen by many as a protest against what they perceive as an attack on their livelihoods. While vandalism is undoubtedly destructive, it reflects a deeper sense of frustration and desperation. When faced with economic force from a hardline president, these acts of defiance become a form of protest for those who feel marginalized and powerless.

News: Tesla under fire: Vanadalism, protests in Hamilton signal tense U.S.-Canada relations

August 28, 2018

The Trump administration’s decision to label these acts as “domestic terrorism” seems inconsistent, especially when compared to the pardons granted to those involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Describing violent rioters as “patriots” while condemning Canadian protestors as terrorists highlights a troubling inconsistency in the application of justice.

The events unfolding in Canada serve as a warning about the unintended consequences of using economic force without considering diplomatic integrity and international cooperation. As tensions rise and acts of defiance continue, it is crucial for leaders to reflect on the impact of their policies and rhetoric. True leadership requires not only strength but also empathy and respect for the sovereignty and dignity of all nations.


Resisting Tesla

Some thoughts on the recent spate of vandalism against Teslas, especially since 80 of them were targeted in my own community, grabbing international attention. This is happening amidst some broader political and economic issues. Now, don’t get me wrong—I think the Tesla trucks are quite the eyesore, but generally, I’m a fan of electric cars. Elon’s are called “Cybertrucks,” am I right? The problem is, owning one is just too costly for many of us. So, when I see a Tesla on the road, I can’t help but think its driver is flaunting wealth, much like those who used to drive around in those obnoxious Hummers.

I’m not one to condone vandalism against personal property, but in this case, I find myself understanding the resistance. Here’s why:

Donald Trump launched an economic war against Canada, disregarding the good faith established by the USMCA. By imposing harsh tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, he’s directly targeting Hamilton, the heart of our steel industry.

His comments about wanting Canada to become the 51st state are unsettling, to say the least.

Trump enlisted Elon Musk—yeah, the world’s richest guy, who’s been leaning far right and has a bizarre knack for making Nazi-style salutes—to slash the U.S. federal civil service with mass firings.

The idea that “Canada is not a real country” aligns with Trump’s annexation ambitions.

Musk’s influence, especially through his social media platform, is a genuine threat to Canadian sovereignty. His spread of misinformation and interference in elections is alarming.

The backlash against Musk is rooted in his ties with Trump and the assault on livelihoods, especially in Hamilton. While I can’t support the vandalism itself, I see it as a reaction to Musk’s provocations.

Labeling this as “domestic terrorism” by Trump’s administration is laughable, especially considering the pardons given to those he called “patriots” after the January 6th Capitol attack.

In essence, when a hardline president imposes “economic force,” it’s almost inevitable that guerrilla warfare-like resistance will follow. That’s precisely what’s unfolding now.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-06, annexation, Canada, diplomacy, Domestic Terrorist, Donald Trump, Economy, Elon Musk, Hamilton, protest, QAnon Shamon, resistance, sovereignty, steel, Substack, tariffs, tesla, Trade, USMCA, vandalism

Thursday March 6, 2025

March 6, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Trump's Court: The New Era of American Monarchy

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 6, 2025

“America is Back” – A Return to What?

The inauguration of Donald Trump in the Capitol Rotunda, a site of past chaos, highlights the deepening divides and fears surrounding his administration while Biden's preemptive pardons attempt to shield his adversaries from potential retribution against a backdrop of oligarchic influence.

January 21, 2025

The declaration of “America is back” by President Donald Trump rings through the halls of power with a resonance that’s both reassuring to some and disconcerting to others. But as we delve deeper into his policies and the current state of the nation, a pressing question arises: Back to what, precisely? The rhetoric suggests a return to greatness, yet the reality paints a picture that seems to harken back to an era less democratic and more autocratic.

Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China has been described by The Economist as an unexpected upheaval, causing a ripple of economic isolationism reminiscent of the protectionist policies of the late 19th century. Readers of The Globe and Mail express concern that these actions dismantle decades of progress toward free trade that the U.S. once championed. The United States, a founding figure in reducing global trade barriers through agreements like GATT and the WTO, now appears to be retreating to a time when tariffs were the norm rather than the exception.

News: A Combative Trump Says ‘America Is Back’ and Taunts His Political Rivals

Donald Trump’s second-term rhetoric and policies signal a shift from isolationism to economic and territorial expansionism, challenging global stability and international norms.

February 7, 2025

The editorial from The Globe and Mail paints a picture of a U.S. pivoting away from its Western allies towards the arms of the Kremlin. This shift raises questions about America’s role as a reliable ally in the post-war era, a period when it provided security and leadership against totalitarianism. Reader comments reflect unease over the abandonment of long-held security guarantees and the potential fallout for global stability. The U.S. seems to be distancing itself from the very alliances it helped to build, suggesting a return to an era of isolationism and unilateralism.

Domestically, Trump’s administration is characterized by significant upheaval, with an unelected billionaire like Elon Musk reportedly wielding power to fire civil servants. The concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals and the erosion of institutional norms evoke a time before the robust checks and balances established by the founding fathers. Reader comments express fears of a permanent alteration in governance, with democracy itself appearing to be under threat.

The escalating Canada-U.S. trade tensions, driven by President Trump's tariffs, have united Canadians across political lines and spurred retaliatory actions, while opening discussions on diversifying trade partnerships.

February 4, 2025

Trump’s rhetoric of annexing territories and embracing former adversaries echoes imperial expansionism. The notion of America “being back” might conjure images of a time when nations were led by divine kings, wielding unchecked power and pursuing imperial ambitions. This raises the question of whether Trump’s vision aligns with the democratic ideals and international cooperation that have long defined American leadership.

Opinion: Pax Americana is over. Donald Trump killed it

As Trump declares “America is back,” the question remains: Back to what historical period does he refer? Is it a return to economic isolationism, diplomatic withdrawal, and centralized power reminiscent of monarchies? For a nation that once stood as a beacon of democracy and global leadership, the current trajectory seems at odds with the principles that have guided it for over two centuries.

February 6, 2019

In this context, the call for vigilance and reflection becomes imperative. Understanding what “America is back” truly means is crucial for the nation and the world, as the implications of this rhetoric reverberate across borders and generations. The path forward must reconcile the nation’s historical ideals with the challenges and complexities of the modern world.


America is back (To c1534)

Just wrapped up another day at the drawing board, capturing the political scene. If you know my work, you’ll recall my detailed chart of English and British monarchs. In the Trump 2.0 era, though he’s been in power just six weeks, I’ve already illustrated him in royal attire a few times.

U.S. history has seen presidents compared to overbearing kings when they veer from the essence of a presidency, rooted in the republic’s founding ideals. Yet here we are with Donald Trump, the “anti-President,” echoing the Vatican’s anti-popes and Oliver Cromwell’s flirtation with kingship. Trump, who seems to relish the company of monarchs and dictators, has expressed his kingly aspirations openly.

What’s more, his followers are urging him to break term limits and push for a third term, a notion that challenges the legitimacy of democratic elections. It’s as if Trump and his circle of enablers have forgotten that a U.S. President isn’t meant to play king. With MAGA’s fealty and his grand rhetoric about territories, when Trump says “America is Back,” it feels like a nod to Tudor times

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 6, 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

Read on Substack

Posted in: USA Tagged: 2025-05, Congress, Democracy, Doge, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, influence, J.D. Vance, Kash Patel, King, leadership, liberty, Mike Johnson, Monarchy, oligarchy, Pam Bondi, Pete Hesgeth, power, RFK jr., Substack, transformation, USA, values, wealth

The Quiet Before the Storm

February 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Politics, Hockey, and Trump
Saturday February 22, 2025 | Newsletter 17

Yet another week that’s has been a whirlwind of events, weaving together unique threads of provincial, national, and global themes, all underscored by the disruptive presence of Donald Trump lingering in the shadows. From the silence of local candidates in Ontario to the fierce political rivalry in Canada and Trump’s controversial statements on the global stage, the editorial cartoons created this week reflect a growing concern for genuine representation and accountability. The central theme is clear and repetitive to all of my posts in recent weeks: we need to demand more from our leaders and ensure they engage authentically with the public.

The Hamilton Spectator – November 30, 1934

It was a short work week due to the holiday on Monday, so I’ll begin this review not with one of my own editorial cartoons, but with a classic drawn long ago by Hamilton Spectator editorial cartoonist Ivan Glassco. He was a vocal critic of unqualified and ineffective local political candidates, and his sentiments resonate strongly in the current Ontario provincial election campaign.

This election cycle appears to be lacking the typical efforts from candidates to engage with voters—gone are the days of knocking on doors and delivering policy pledges through leaflets. Engagement should also include meeting with journalists and answering their questions. Calling an election during a particularly snowy winter is a convenient tactic by the governing party, ensuring low turnout.

Monday night featured one of two leaders’ debates, which can best be described as a cacophony of sound bites, with four candidates talking over one another while avoiding the pressing issues of the day. Frankly, these debates aren’t worth tuning into for a full 90 minutes. In the past, I found local debates informative in helping me decide whose name to mark with an X, but even those opportunities seem scarce, often lacking attendance from key candidates.

Running for public office should be viewed as an act of courage. However, if candidates merely put their names forward without addressing the who, what, how, and why behind their campaigns, then what’s the point? As Glassco suggests in his timeless cartoon, it’s time to sweep away the useless candidates.

The increasing control over political candidates' public engagements in Ontario raises concerns about transparency and democracy, reflecting a shift towards meticulous message management at the cost of open debate.

Wednesday, February 19, 2025: The Silence of Candidates

In Ontario, the Progressive Conservative party’s strategy of tightly controlling candidates’ public appearances and media interactions is causing concern. The absence of local candidates from all-candidates debates leaves voters wondering if their representatives are truly equipped to advocate for their interests. The lack of engagement paints a picture of a nearly invisible campaign, depriving voters of meaningful political discourse.

Cartoon Summary: Doug Ford’s confident statement about Canadian independence is juxtaposed with the empty podiums at local debates, highlighting the irony of his words against the backdrop of disengagement. The making-of video: The Training of Parliamentary Trained Seals

Mark Carney's pragmatic approach gains momentum against Pierre Poilievre's faltering rhetoric, reshaping Canada's political landscape.

Thursday, February 20, 2025: The Rise of Mark Carney

As Pierre Poilievre’s dominance in Ottawa appears to be faltering, the emergence of Mark Carney as a formidable contender promises a significant showdown in Canadian politics. Carney’s impressive credentials challenge Poilievre’s reliance on sharp critiques of Trudeau, reflecting a shift towards leadership that embodies integrity and competence.

Cartoon Summary: The rivalry between Poilievre and Carney, underscoring the contrast between political antics and substantive credentials. The making-of video: Poilievre mob goes after Trump

Trump's revisionist narrative on the Ukraine invasion threatens democratic alliances by aligning with authoritarian rhetoric.

Friday, February 21, 2025: Putin’s Circus

Former President Donald Trump’s remarks about Ukraine’s conflict with Russia exemplify a troubling departure from democratic values and factual accuracy. His attempt to recast Ukraine as the aggressor undermines the unity of Western nations, highlighting the need for a robust response from global leaders committed to truth and resisting divisive revisionism.

Cartoon Summary: Trump and Musk as circus performers, amusingly juxtaposed with global dictators, capturing the farcical nature of current political discourse while emphasizing the seriousness of the underlying issues. The making-of video: Donald Trump’s Circus Act

Canada's hockey win over the USA becomes a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience amidst political tensions with Trump.

Saturday, February 22, 2025: A Hockey Victory for Canada

Finally something to cheer about! Canada’s recent victory over the USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off final serves as a powerful symbol of national pride amidst political tensions with Trump. As the American King’s rhetoric raises concerns about Canada’s sovereignty, the hockey win becomes a rallying point for unity and resilience, reminding Canadians of their shared values and commitment to independence.

Cartoon Summary: A metaphorical ice rink scene features a determined player in a “Never 51” jersey, challenging Trump, Elon Musk and Putin, highlighting Canada’s defiance against external pressures. The making-of video: Never 51, vs. the Trump Clown Cart

 * * *

This week’s events have highlighted the pressing need for political engagement and accountability from our leaders, both at the provincial and national levels. The shadow of Donald Trump looms large, complicating matters further with his ongoing interference in international affairs, which threatens the stability and sovereignty of nations. As we look ahead, it is imperative that our political discourse prioritizes transparent, authentic, and principled leadership that upholds democratic values.

Next week, a storm is brewing. On February 27, Ontario voters will express their sentiments regarding Doug Ford’s Trump tariff election and determine whether he deserves the strong mandate he is seeking. As we enter March, Canadians will discover how Trump’s sword of Damocles will affect the tariffs hanging over us. Finally, on March 9, we will learn who the Liberals believe should be Canada’s next Prime Minister. The weeks ahead promise to be pivotal, and it is crucial that we remain vigilant and engaged.

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will always be free. Thank you for your continued support!

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Posted in: Substack Post Tagged: 2025-04, Donald Trump, Doug Ford, election, Elon Musk, Hockey, Ivan Glassco, Mark Carney, Ontario, OntElection2025, Pierre Poilievre, Substack, Ukraine, Vladimir Putin

Friday February 21, 2025

February 21, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

 Trump's revisionist narrative on the Ukraine invasion threatens democratic alliances by aligning with authoritarian rhetoric.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 21, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Trump’s Dangerous Dance with Authoritarianism: Rewriting Reality

The convergence of Elon Musk’s influence over U.S. elections, Donald Trump’s authoritarian ambitions, and Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical agenda feels eerily like the unfolding of a real-life James Bond thriller, with democracy and global security hanging in the balance.

October 26, 2024

In a world increasingly fraught with geopolitical tensions and the stark realities of authoritarian aggression, the responsibility of democratic nations to uphold truth and justice has never been more critical. As former President Donald Trump seeks to rewrite history by casting Ukraine as a villain and its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a dictator, it is imperative that the global community stands united against this dangerous narrative.

The facts are clear and undisputed: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was an unprovoked act of aggression, a blatant breach of international law, and a humanitarian disaster that has claimed countless innocent lives. Ukraine, under the steadfast leadership of Zelenskyy, has fought valiantly to defend its sovereignty and democratic principles against an authoritarian regime bent on its destruction.

The fall of Assad’s regime in Syria marks a crushing blow to Putin and Iran, stripping them of a key ally and undermining their influence in the Middle East.

December 10, 2024

Trump’s recent comments not only distort these truths but also align disturbingly with the playbook of authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin, a man widely recognized as a war criminal due to his regime’s actions in Ukraine. By shifting blame onto the victim of this brutal conflict, Trump undermines the very principles of justice and democracy that the United States and its allies have long championed.

As highlighted in a New York Times piece by Peter Baker, Trump’s revisionism involves “a striking distortion of reality,” where he falsely accuses Ukraine of initiating the conflict and portrays Zelenskyy as a “dictator without elections.” Such rhetoric not only misleads but also endangers the fragile alliances and support systems that have been built to uphold international law and order.

News: Trump Flips the Script on the Ukraine War, Blaming Zelensky Not Putin

Donald Trump's proposals to end the Ukraine war by conceding territory to Russia undermine the Ukrainian people's fight for sovereignty and should not dictate the fate of a nation fighting for its freedom.

September 28, 2024

This revisionist rhetoric poses a grave threat to the established world order, one that has, despite its imperfections, largely sought to promote peace, stability, and human rights. By sowing doubt and division, Trump risks weakening the unity of Western nations and emboldening authoritarian regimes that see opportunity in discord.

It is incumbent upon the leaders of democratic nations, including those in Europe, Canada, the UK, and beyond, to resist this dangerous narrative. Silence in the face of such blatant misinformation and revisionism is not an option. To remain silent is to tacitly endorse a worldview that values power over principle, lies over truth, and tyranny over freedom.

Donald Trump's recent remarks, cheering on aggression against NATO countries, and Canada's position as a buffer between Russia and potential U.S. instability, highlight the urgent need for a rethink on global security.

February 13, 2024

As one courageous GOP congressman pointed out, Vladimir Putin’s actions warrant the label of war criminal, a fact that cannot be ignored or softened by political expediency. It is a moral and ethical imperative for politicians, regardless of party affiliation, to speak out against any attempt to rehabilitate or justify his regime’s actions.

History will judge those who, in a time of moral crisis, chose the path of least resistance. It will remember those who stood by and allowed truth to be eclipsed by falsehoods for political gain. But it will also honour those who had the courage to speak out, to defend the values of democracy and human rights, and to stand with the oppressed against their oppressors.

In this pivotal moment, the global community must reaffirm its commitment to these principles. We must reject revisionism, support the victims of aggression, and hold accountable those who seek to distort reality for their own ends. Only by doing so can we hope to preserve the fragile peace and order that so many have fought and died to protect.


Today, I poured my creativity into crafting a cartoon that tackles a situation fraught with serious implications. The focus was on former President Donald Trump’s recent statements about Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite the cartoon’s lighthearted approach, the underlying issues are deeply concerning.

It’s telling that a lot of people say everything Trump says is a lie, reflecting a widespread skepticism and mistrust. This perception adds a layer of complexity, especially as Trump leads efforts to broker peace in a critical conflict with questionable intentions. Many still believe him, which only deepens the divide between those who seek truth and those who follow his narrative.

While the cartoon aims to entertain, it also highlights the troubling reality of misleading rhetoric. It underscores my worry about the direction of global politics and the urgent need for leaders who prioritize truth and genuine peace efforts.

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 21, 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

Posted in: International, USA Tagged: 2025-04, aggression, alliances, authoritarianism, Ayatolla, bear, China, circus, Democracy, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Iran, Kim Jong Un, North Korea, revisionism, rhetoric, Russia, Ukraine, USA, Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Xi Jinping

Tuesday January 27, 2025

January 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The final report on foreign interference in Canada reveals serious threats from various nations, yet it's the economic pressures from Trump's policies that unexpectedly drive Canada's political focus.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 27, 2025

Canada’s Political Landscape Amidst Foreign Meddling and Economic Pressures

The lack of transparency and accountability in addressing allegations of foreign interference in Canadian politics, particularly regarding MPs who may have been witting or clueless collaborators, risks eroding public trust, with concerns raised about potential partisanship influencing responses, particularly within the Liberal Party.

June 12, 2024

In recent years, the investigation into foreign meddling in Canada has been a critical endeavour, aimed at safeguarding our democracy from covert influences by nations such as China, Russia, Iran, India, and Pakistan. This comprehensive inquiry, culminating in a final report, has uncovered a series of alarming activities that threaten the integrity of Canada’s political system.

China has been implicated in sophisticated espionage operations, employing cyber tactics to infiltrate Canadian political institutions. Allegations of interference in elections, along with harassment of Chinese-Canadian communities, underscore the pervasive nature of their influence.

News: Hogue inquiry final report to propose measures against election interference and disinformation

Canada faces an alarming new threat as far-right influencers, allegedly funded by Russian operatives, use propaganda to radicalize citizens, sow division, and undermine democracy, posing a form of ideological homegrown terrorism.

September 10, 2024

Russia’s notorious disinformation campaigns have aimed to destabilize Western democracies, including Canada. Efforts to support specific political candidates and sow division through social media manipulation illustrate their broader strategy of influence. The presence of Russian double agents within Canadian institutions further complicates our security landscape.

Iran’s activities include targeted cyber attacks and harassment of Iranian-Canadian activists and politicians. These actions reflect the Iranian regime’s broader attempt to silence opposition voices abroad, extending their reach into Canada.

India faces accusations related to its handling of the Sikh diaspora in Canada, with allegations of surveillance and intimidation against those advocating for Sikh independence. Such actions have strained Canada-India relations, challenging Canada’s diplomatic balance.

Pakistan has been linked to efforts to influence Canadian politics through diaspora networks and espionage activities, highlighting the challenges of managing bilateral relations while safeguarding national security.

Irwin Cotler’s experience with Iranian harassment underscores Canada’s urgent need to counter foreign interference and safeguard its democracy, especially as Trump’s renewed focus on Iran creates a critical moment for action.

November 21, 2024

These activities are not merely abstract threats; they have tangible impacts on Canada’s political fabric. The presence of double agents, some of whom have held or currently hold positions within Canada’s Parliament, illustrates the potential for compromised decision-making at the highest levels. Incidents of harassment and assassination plots against politicians and activists add to the gravity of the situation.

However, just as we were poised to digest these findings, an overt foreign influence from an unexpected source has emerged, overshadowing this vital investigation. Since Donald Trump’s re-election victory in November 2024, Canada has faced an unprecedented challenge from our southern neighbour. His aggressive economic policies, particularly the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, have turned our political agenda on its head.

As Canada delves into an inquiry on foreign interference, the parallels between Pierre Poilievre and Donald Trump, including their mutual distrust of institutions, the media, and their overblown characterization of opponents as criminals, raise questions about their impact on the political landscape as the elections approach.

January 30, 2024

This shift in focus is most evident in the recent resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. His departure has left a leadership vacuum at the federal level, triggering a Liberal leadership contest at a time when cohesive national strategy is desperately needed. With Trudeau’s absence, the federal government has struggled to maintain its previous commitments, including the abandonment of key initiatives like carbon pricing, as it scrambles to address the looming economic threat.

The gravity of the situation is underscored by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s decision to call a snap election. Ford’s move, aimed at securing a mandate to counteract Trump’s tariffs, reflects the urgency with which provincial leaders are responding to these external pressures. The economic stakes are high, particularly for Ontario’s vital automotive sector, which stands to suffer significantly from U.S. policies.

News: NDP MP Angus calls for investigation into Elon Musk over potential election interference

The convergence of Elon Musk’s influence over U.S. elections, Donald Trump’s authoritarian ambitions, and Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical agenda feels eerily like the unfolding of a real-life James Bond thriller, with democracy and global security hanging in the balance.

October 26, 2024

Adding to the complexity of the geopolitical landscape, Canadian MP Charlie Angus has raised concerns about Elon Musk’s influence on social media platforms, particularly in relation to the spread of misinformation and its potential impact on Canadian democracy. Angus argues that Musk’s control over these digital spaces could further complicate efforts to maintain the integrity of Canada’s political discourse.

This convergence of events raises pressing questions about Canada’s ability to navigate both covert and overt foreign influences. While the findings of the foreign meddling investigation remain essential for long-term democratic resilience, the immediate economic threats from the U.S. require swift and decisive action.

As we stand at this crossroads, it is imperative for Canadian leaders to balance these dual challenges. Strengthening our defences against covert interference must go hand-in-hand with robust economic strategies to protect our national interests. Only by addressing both dimensions can Canada ensure its sovereignty and stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.


Grab your popcorn and settle in because the drama unfolding on Parliament Hill is nothing short of a monster movie extravaganza. Picture this: towering over our iconic Canadian Parliament buildings, two colossal beasts are wreaking havoc, and they’ve got everyone in a frenzy.

First off, meet “Trumpzilla.” With the body of Godzilla and the unmistakable head of Donald Trump, he’s spewing fiery tariffs and trade threats that are setting the very ground around the Centre Block ablaze. You can almost hear the panicked cries of politicians scrambling to deal with the chaos—it’s a sight to behold, and not in a good way.

In the backdrop, swinging from the Peace Tower, is “King Elon.” Think King Kong but with Elon Musk’s head, casually disrupting social media and technology like it’s just another day at the office. He’s the wildcard in this tale, adding another layer of complexity to this already tumultuous scene.

Now, you might be thinking, “What about the serious stuff?” Indeed, there’s a crucial investigation into foreign meddling by bad actor nations like China, Russia, Iran, India, and Pakistan. This report has been years in the making, uncovering alarming activities such as assassinations, harassment of politicians, and double agents who’ve infiltrated our Parliament. It’s a big deal, no doubt about it.

But here’s the kicker: while our focus should be on these covert threats, Trumpzilla has barged in, flipping our democracy on its head. Since his election win in November, he’s dominated our domestic agenda, creating a leadership vacuum with Justin Trudeau’s resignation and a Liberal leadership contest. Carbon pricing? Abandoned. The spotlight is now on handling the impending Trump tariffs, which promise to send shockwaves through our economy, potentially leading to a recession.

Even Doug Ford has jumped into the fray, calling an early provincial snap election in Ontario to secure a mandate to fight these tariffs. It’s a scene straight out of a political thriller, with politicians running around like chickens with their heads cut off.

So there you have it—a spectacle of monstrous proportions. While the final report on foreign interference is crucial, the immediate threat from our southern neighbour has taken centre stage, leaving us to ponder the lasting effects on our jobs, businesses, and overall economic stability.

Please enjoy the January 27, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below.  Posts come out every Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-02, Canada, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, foreign interference, foreign meddling, godzilla, king kong, monster, Parliament, parody, Substack, USA
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