fossil fuels – mackaycartoons

Saturday May 31 2025

May 31, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 31 2025

Prairie Flames: A Tale of Two Leaders

June 21, 2024

As wildfires blaze across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, we’re witnessing a stark contrast in how leaders are handling the crisis. The fires are starting earlier, burning hotter, and lasting longer, a sign of changing times tied to climate change. This situation highlights the different paths being taken by the premiers of these two provinces.

BBC: Western Canada wildfires emergency hits another province as thousands flee

June 8, 2023

In Saskatchewan, Premier Scott Moe is well-known for his support of the oil and gas industry. He argues that these industries are vital for the province’s economy. However, his focus on fossil fuels seems outdated when faced with the reality of more intense wildfires. Moe has resisted federal climate policies like carbon pricing, which some see as ignoring the root causes of these worsening fires.

On the other hand, Manitoba’s Premier Wab Kinew is taking a different approach. He has set ambitious goals to reduce emissions and shift towards renewable energy. Kinew’s response to the wildfire crisis includes taking swift action to protect communities, showing a clear understanding of the link between climate change and these natural disasters.

News: Saskatchewan declares state of emergency as wildfires force evacuations in western and central Canada

July 21, 2022

Kinew acknowledges the challenges of moving away from fossil fuels, but his willingness to address these issues head-on reflects a commitment to both the environment and the economy. His leadership suggests a balance between immediate action and long-term planning.

The fires ravaging these provinces remind us of the importance of leadership in the face of climate change. The choices made today will shape the future, and the contrasting approaches of Moe and Kinew offer insight into how different strategies can impact the fight against climate-related disasters. As the fires burn, the need for thoughtful and proactive leadership becomes ever more critical.

Giant Wildfires on the Prairie by The Graeme Gallery

Friday May 30, 2025

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Tuesday April 8, 2025

April 8, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday April 8, 2025

A Call for Unity Amidst Division

March 25, 2025

In recent weeks, the political landscape in Canada has been marked by a troubling resurgence of separatist rhetoric emanating from Western Canada, particularly from figures like Preston Manning. His desperate warning that a victory for Mark Carney’s Liberals would lead to the breakup of Canada is not only alarmist but also counterproductive. It threatens to exacerbate divisions at a time when national unity is more critical than ever.

Opinion: Mark Carney poses a threat to national unity

Manning’s perspective, which positions Western separation as a legitimate response to perceived grievances, fails to recognize the complex realities faced by all Canadians. While it is essential to acknowledge the frustrations of those in Alberta and Saskatchewan—regions that have long felt overlooked by federal policies—resorting to threats of secession is not a constructive solution. Such extreme viewpoints only serve to polarize discussions and undermine the collaborative spirit necessary for addressing shared challenges.

December 2, 2022

However, dismissing Manning’s concerns outright ignores a significant truth: the fossil fuel sector in Western Canada is not just an economic powerhouse; it is a lifeline for many communities. The realities of shifting global energy dynamics and the impacts of U.S. President Donald Trump’s reckless economic policies have created uncertainty that can no longer be overlooked. The tariffs and trade tensions he has instigated have put pressure on Canadian industries, particularly those heavily reliant on fossil fuels.

As we navigate these turbulent waters, it is crucial to strike a balance between addressing environmental imperatives and safeguarding the livelihoods of those dependent on fossil fuel industries. The call for an immediate end to fossil fuel reliance without a viable transition plan risks not only economic devastation but also the loss of social cohesion in communities that have built their identities around these sectors.

Opinion: A look at the growing discord in Western Canada

September 1, 2021

Danielle Smith’s alignment with Trump and her provocative stance on Alberta’s autonomy further complicate this already fraught landscape. While she champions the voices of those who feel marginalized, her approach often mirrors the divisive rhetoric that only deepens the chasm between regions. It is essential to understand that unity cannot be built on fear or threats; rather, it requires dialogue, compromise, and a commitment to finding common ground.

What is needed now is a comprehensive and inclusive discussion that brings together various stakeholders—politicians, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and community members—to explore pathways toward a sustainable energy future that respects the economic realities of Western Canada. This means investing in green technology and transition strategies that not only address climate change but also provide new opportunities for workers in the fossil fuel sector.

In the face of daunting challenges posed by external forces, Canada must remain steadfast in its commitment to unity. We cannot allow the desperate warnings of figures like Manning to derail the essential conversations about how to move forward together. Instead, let us focus on building a resilient nation that acknowledges regional concerns while striving for a sustainable and inclusive future.

News: Poilievre distances himself from ex-Reform Leader Preston Manning’s comments on Western separatism

October 12, 2019

The road ahead may be rocky, but by fostering understanding and collaboration, Canada can navigate these rough seas and emerge stronger, united in our diversity and shared purpose. It is time to reject divisive rhetoric and work collectively toward a future that honours both our environmental responsibilities and our economic realities.

Looking For a Strong Manning-Date

As someone who closely follows elections, I’ve always found polls to be incredibly useful in gauging the political climate and predicting election outcomes. Over the past two elections, I’ve made it a point to draw on polls at least once in editorial during each campaign. It’s fascinating to look back and see how the parties were faring just weeks before election day.

During Justin Trudeau’s tenure, the polls often depicted a flatline between the two main parties, leading to somewhat predictable outcomes and the formation of minority governments. This trend seemed to reflect a broader lack of trust and confidence among Canadians towards both the Liberals and Conservatives. Consequently, we’ve experienced years of weak governance, with Trudeau’s position becoming increasingly fragile with each passing election since 2015.

The polls have not been kind to the Liberals under Trudeau in recent years, while the Conservatives, under Pierre Poilievre, have seen astronomical support. However, there’s an old saying about peaking too early, and that seems to be the case for Poilievre. The pendulum of political favour has swung, but rather than benefiting the Conservatives, it appears to have favoured centrists, especially with Mark Carney now leading the Liberal Party.

If there ever was a need for renewed confidence and unity, it is now, especially at a time when global security and economic order are being shaken. A majority government is needed, and the right person to head it is the reasonable, calm, and somewhat boring father figure, Mark Carney. He stands in contrast to Pierre Poilievre, who, with his petulant and angry demeanour, is neither a centrist nor a uniter.

While I sympathize with Conservatives who express frustration with the Liberals, it’s clear that the pendulum has indeed swung toward a more centrist approach. Carney’s leadership offers a new perspective and potential for renewed confidence among Canadians. As we approach the next election, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out and what the polls will reveal in the final stretch.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 7, 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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Friday November 22, 2024

November 22, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

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

Doug Ford’s EV Gamble Meets Trump’s Fossil-Fuelled Reality

November 16, 2024

Doug Ford has staked Ontario’s future on becoming a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Billions of dollars are flowing into the province to build an end-to-end EV supply chain, from mining critical minerals in the north to producing batteries and manufacturing cars in the south. Ford has presented this vision as not just a green initiative, but an economic transformation that will secure Ontario’s place in the future of North American industry. It’s a bold strategy—but one that now faces an existential threat from south of the border.

Donald Trump’s return to the White House throws Ford’s EV ambitions into turmoil. Trump has made no secret of his disdain for green energy and EV subsidies, instead doubling down on fossil fuels and dismantling environmental policies. His pledge to potentially unravel the Inflation Reduction Act—a cornerstone of U.S. EV incentives—sends a chilling message to Ontario’s automakers and mineral producers. For Ford, whose plan hinges on cross-border integration and growing demand for EVs in the U.S., this is a crisis in the making.

News: Mélanie Joly says next U.S. ambassador Pete Hoekstra will help advance ‘shared priorities’

November 23, 2016

Compounding the challenge is Trump’s choice for U.S. ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. A former Michigan congressman and Trump loyalist, Hoekstra has a track record of opposing government support for EVs. While his Michigan roots suggest familiarity with cross-border trade, his alignment with Trump’s energy priorities raises serious concerns. Hoekstra is likely to advocate for an “America First” energy strategy that sidelines green technology in favour of fossil fuels. This could place Ontario’s massive EV investments at odds with the economic and political direction of its largest trading partner.

Ford, to his credit, is not sitting idly by. His government’s announced “charm offensive” in the U.S. aims to highlight Ontario’s critical minerals, energy resources, and role as a key supplier for American industries. It’s a calculated move to remind U.S. decision-makers that economic cooperation with Ontario is in their best interest. Yet Ford has been here before. During Trump’s first term, he lobbied fiercely against steel and aluminum tariffs, only to see Trump impose them anyway. It was only after Canada responded with retaliatory measures that the tariffs were lifted. If history is any guide, Trump’s administration is unlikely to be swayed by charm alone.

News: Ontario to go on ‘charm offensive’ in U.S. after Donald Trump victory, minister says

October 16, 2020

The stakes are higher now. EVs represent a generational opportunity for Ontario, one that Ford and Ottawa have both heavily invested in. A rollback of U.S. EV subsidies could shrink the market for Ontario’s batteries and vehicles, leaving its nascent supply chain vulnerable. Even worse, if Trump’s administration turns protectionist on critical minerals—seeking to hoard U.S. resources or impose tariffs on Canadian imports—Ontario’s leverage as a supplier could evaporate.

There’s also a glaring political dynamic at play. Ford has been an outspoken advocate for EVs, confidently asserting that they are “the way of the future.” But his federal Conservative counterparts, led by Pierre Poilievre, have largely stayed quiet on the issue. Poilievre, often quick to criticize Liberal policies, has not addressed the potential collision between Ford’s EV strategy and Trump’s energy agenda. This silence suggests a tactical calculation, but it also leaves a leadership void. If Trump’s policies threaten to undermine Ontario’s investments, federal Conservatives will need to articulate how they plan to safeguard Canadian jobs and industry while maintaining a working relationship with the White House.

News: Premiers back cutting Mexico from U.S. trade talks, Doug Ford says

May 4, 2022

The friction between Canada and the U.S. over EVs is poised to become a major flashpoint in the coming years. Trump’s approach to energy and trade, combined with Hoekstra’s likely advocacy for fossil fuel priorities, sets up a potential conflict with Canada’s push for a green transition. Ford’s efforts to build an EV economy may not align with Trump’s vision for America, creating challenges not just for Ontario but for Canada as a whole.

News: Doug Ford’s winning bet: EV strategy pays off for Ontario

Ford’s strategy is not without merit. His efforts to position Ontario as a critical player in the EV market demonstrate a boldness that has been lacking at the federal level. But this is also a gamble. If Trump’s policies derail North America’s EV momentum, Ford risks being left with stranded investments and a crumbling vision. Ontario’s charm offensive may buy goodwill, but history suggests that Trump’s administration respects strength more than persuasion. Ford must be prepared to fight for Ontario’s interests, using every tool at his disposal—including federal collaboration, retaliatory measures, and a pivot to other markets if necessary.

Ontario’s EV revolution is a bet on the future, one that could pay dividends for generations. But with Trump’s America pulling in a different direction, Ford’s gamble may become the defining test of his premiership. For Canada and Ontario, the stakes could not be higher.

Doug Ford has poured everything into making Ontario a leader in electric vehicles. Working closely with the Trudeau government, he’s helped bring in billions from automakers like Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Honda to set up shop in the province. Together, they’ve built an EV dream: mining minerals up north, building batteries down south, and creating thousands of jobs along the way.

For a while, it looked like everything was going smoothly—partisan bickering aside, the province and feds were actually working together for once. But now Donald Trump is back, and his return could blow up Ford’s plans.

Trump doesn’t care about EVs. He’s all about oil, gas, and “drill, baby, drill.” His talk about scrapping U.S. EV subsidies has automakers nervous, and Ontario’s entire plan depends on a strong American EV market. To make things worse, Trump just picked Pete Hoekstra, a guy who’s openly against EV subsidies, to be the next U.S. ambassador to Canada.

Ford’s doing his best to butter up Trump’s team with a “charm offensive,” but it’s a risky move. We’ve seen this movie before—Ford tried playing nice with Trump during his first term, and it still ended with tariffs on Ontario steel and aluminum.

If Trump follows through on his anti-EV agenda, Ontario’s big investments could be in serious trouble. Ford’s carefully built EV strategy might collapse, leaving taxpayers holding the bag and thousands of jobs at risk.

Ford is betting big on Trump playing along. But if this gamble doesn’t work, it won’t just be Ford’s reputation on the line—it’ll be Ontario’s economic future.

Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday 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. Subscriptions will always be free – as long as my position remains as a staff editorial cartoonist. Thanks.

Here’s the making-of clip of my Friday editorial cartoon. Sound up, and please enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

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Tuesday July 30, 2024

July 30, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday July 30, 2024

Past Time for Thoughts and Prayers: Demand Action on Climate Disasters

June 20, 2024

The recent wildfire that devastated Jasper, Alberta, has left a profound sense of sadness and helplessness, resonating deeply with those who witness the increasing number of such catastrophic events. Chris Hatch’s commentary on the wildfire captures this sentiment, highlighting how the emotional toll extends beyond those directly affected. Similarly, Susan Riley’s piece on our persistent inaction in the face of climate change argues that we must move past the stage of offering “thoughts and prayers” and take concrete action.

Opinion:Jasper and the great sadness

May 14, 2024

Over the past decade, the frequency and intensity of wildfires have increased dramatically, a trend directly linked to climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and altered precipitation patterns have made forests drier and more prone to fires. As a result, fire seasons are longer, and the fires themselves are more severe and destructive. The devastation in Jasper, where over 30% of the town’s structures were damaged or destroyed, is a stark example of this growing phenomenon. The expansion of human settlements into wild land areas has also exacerbated the impact of wildfires. Towns like Jasper, nestled within forests, are particularly vulnerable. Decades of fire suppression policies have allowed combustible materials to accumulate, creating conditions ripe for larger, more intense wildfires.

July 29, 2023

The response to wildfires has been hampered by systemic issues such as budget cuts, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and prioritization of fossil fuel infrastructure over fire preparedness. These factors have left communities like Jasper ill-equipped to handle such disasters, leading to significant loss and prolonged recovery periods. Riley emphasizes the urgency of addressing the root causes of these disasters—primarily our continued reliance on fossil fuels. Despite the clear link between fossil fuel emissions and climate change, the oil and gas industry continues to expand, with government support. This expansion directly contradicts climate commitments and perpetuates the cycle of destruction and inaction.

Tuesday April 2, 2024

To break this cycle, we must reduce fossil fuel dependency by shifting away from fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy sources, implementing stricter regulations on emissions, and halting the expansion of oil and gas infrastructure. Enhancing fire preparedness and response by increasing funding for fire prevention and firefighting resources, improving forest management practices, and bolstering early warning systems and emergency response capabilities is essential. Comprehensive climate adaptation strategies are also necessary to protect communities from the impacts of climate change, such as building resilient infrastructure, protecting natural buffers like wetlands, and supporting community-based adaptation efforts. Holding leaders accountable by electing those genuinely committed to addressing climate change and ensuring that climate policies are implemented effectively is crucial.

Opinion: Pumping more oil while the house burns down: how long will the fantasy last?

February 6, 2020

The devastation in Jasper and many other communities affected by wildfires and climate disasters underscores the urgent need for action. Recent years have seen similar destruction in places such as Paradise, California, which was nearly obliterated by the Camp Fire in 2018; Santa Rosa, California, heavily impacted by the Tubbs Fire in 2017; and Lytton, British Columbia, which was largely destroyed by a fire in 2021. More recently, Lahaina in Hawaii faced severe devastation from wildfires in 2023. It is no longer enough to offer thoughts and prayers after each catastrophe. We must demand decisive action to address the root causes of these disasters and build a more resilient and sustainable future. As Susan Riley poignantly asks, “What will it take to shake us from our willful blindness?” The answer lies in our collective ability to push for meaningful change before it is too late. By recognizing the gravity of the situation and acting decisively, we can honor the memories of places like Jasper and ensure that future generations are not condemned to witness the same cycle of destruction and inaction. (AI)

Tuesday June 4, 2024

June 4, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday June 4, 2024

*Watch the animated version here! Turn up the volume.

Celebrating the Edmonton Oilers: Uniting Canada Through Hockey

Septemebr 30, 2023

Amidst the complexities and diversities of Canadian life, there exists a unifying force that transcends regional divides and brings Canadians together—the game of hockey. At the forefront of this unity stands the Edmonton Oilers.

The Oilers’ recent journey to the Stanley Cup Final isn’t just a sports narrative; it’s a testament to the unifying power of hockey in Canada. For too long, Canadian hockey fans have yearned to see a team from their country compete for hockey’s ultimate prize. With the Oilers making history, that dream is becoming a reality.

News: Edmonton Oilers reach first Stanley Cup final in 18 years with 2-1 victory over Dallas Stars

April 25, 2023

But what makes the Oilers’ success even more significant is the diverse tapestry of fans they represent. From bustling urban centres to remote rural communities, Oilers fans come from all walks of life, united by their love for the game. Proudly wearing blue and orange, fans from coast to coast rally behind “Canada’s team.”

In a nation as vast and diverse as Canada, regional differences can sometimes foster division. Yet, when it comes to the Oilers, those differences fade away, replaced by a shared sense of pride and camaraderie. Regardless of origin, Canadians come together to support their team.

May 2, 2023

As the Oilers prepare for battle in the Stanley Cup Final, their opponents, the Florida Panthers, await in the arena. The Panthers, a formidable adversary, stand in the way of the Oilers’ quest for glory. But as the Oilers lace up their skates and take to the ice, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a nation.

In recent years, it’s become a familiar sight—southern teams challenging traditional hockey powerhouses for the Stanley Cup. Yet, as the Oilers face off against the Panthers, Canadians may find themselves asking: “Aren’t we tired of seeing these newbie southern teams claim the great prize of our national sport?”

News: Are Oilers Canada’s team?: ‘Don’t know if Toronto is cheering for us’

July 29, 2020

Indeed, the Oilers’ success serves as a powerful reminder of Canadian resilience and unity. In a world often marked by discord, the Oilers offer a beacon of hope, showing us that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same team.

So let us celebrate the Edmonton Oilers not just as a hockey team, but as a symbol of Canadian unity and strength. Let us come together, from coast to coast, to cheer on our team and revel in the joy of shared victory. And let us remember that, no matter the challenges we face, we are always stronger when we stand together as one nation, united in our love for the game.

In the end, it’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about coming together as a country and embracing the spirit of unity that defines us as Canadians. And with the Edmonton Oilers leading the way, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together. (AI)