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George Washington

Tuesday January 21, 2025

January 21, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

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.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 21, 2025

From Insurrection to Inauguration: The Irony of Power in the Capitol’s Rotunda

January 20, 2017

The inauguration of Donald Trump, held in the iconic Capitol Rotunda, stands as a striking tableau of irony—a space that once echoed with the discord of insurrection now transformed into a setting for a highly anticipated ceremony amid the chill of January. On a day when temperatures plummeted to a frigid -4 degrees Celsius, the venue shift from the Capitol steps to the indoor Rotunda was necessitated by the harsh weather conditions. Yet, the warmth of the sun outside belied the somber historical weight of the place, creating an unsettling juxtaposition between the celebration of power and the shadows of chaos that once engulfed this very hall.

This grand, domed chamber, revered for its architectural splendour and historical significance, was the scene of mayhem just four years prior, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in a futile attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Now, it serves as the backdrop for a gathering of the nation’s elite—former presidents, tech CEOs, and Silicon Valley oligarchs—who occupy the front rows, while many governors and Republican officials, along with Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, find themselves relegated to overflow rooms, watching from a distance.

News: Rotunda Ransacked by Pro-Trump Mob on Jan. 6 Will Be His Inauguration Backdrop

As Canada faces the challenges posed by Trump's second presidency, the nation must assert its sovereignty and strategically address economic, immigration, and military concerns to safeguard its future.

January 4, 2025

The contrast could not be starker: the political elite bask in the warmth of their privilege within the Rotunda, while everyday supporters, eager to witness the event in person, shuffle to Capital One Arena, hoping to catch a glimpse of the proceedings on screens. This spectacle raises questions about accessibility and representation in a democracy that prides itself on inclusivity.

As Trump takes the reins of power once again, there looms a palpable sense of fear among those who find themselves in his crosshairs. His administration has signalled a willingness to settle scores with perceived adversaries—judges, prosecutors, and officials who stood against him. The promise of “retribution” echoes ominously, sending ripples of anxiety through the ranks of those who once believed they could serve the public without fear of vindictive backlash. The Department of Justice, once seen as a bastion of impartiality, now risks becoming a political weapon wielded against those who dare to challenge the status quo.

In an effort to preemptively counter this atmosphere of fear, President Biden issued a series of pardons on his final day in office, targeting those who stood against the tide of insurrection. General Milley, Dr. Fauci, and members of the January 6 committee were granted clemency, a move designed to protect them from potential political prosecutions. Biden’s actions are a testament to the gravity of the situation, highlighting the unprecedented nature of a president using clemency to shield individuals from the vindictiveness of a successor.

News: Some Jan. 6 rioters are expected to be in Washington for the inauguration

Yet, the very necessity of such pardons underscores the precarious state of American democracy. They reflect a reality where public servants, who have dedicated their careers to upholding the rule of law, now require protection from the very forces they sought to counter. Comments from the public reveal a deep unease with the trajectory of the country, as many express concern that the rise of authoritarianism is not just a fear but a lived reality.

In this charged atmosphere, the irony of Trump’s inauguration venue—once a site of insurrection, now a gathering place for the political elite—serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic norms. As the nation watches from afar, the question remains: can the pillars of democracy withstand the pressures of retribution and fear, or will the legacy of this day serve as a harbinger of further division and discord? The answers lie not just in the actions of the incoming administration but in the collective resolve of the American people to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and justice in the face of adversity.


So, there it went, the inauguration of Donald Trump—a day that felt particularly significant, especially given the unusual context of a president returning after losing an election. It was a historic moment, and I found myself glued to my screens as the events unfolded.

The first headline that caught my attention was Biden’s decision to use his executive clemency power to protect individuals targeted by Trump, who has made no secret of his intentions for “retribution.” Some people were thankful for the pardons, while others felt uneasy, worried that accepting them might imply guilt. Just moments before the inauguration, Biden even pardoned much of his family as a precaution.

Then there was the leak about Trump’s speech, which thankfully wouldn’t focus much on tariffs. The mere mention of Canada in such high level speeches is usually an exciting thing, “wow, they mentioned maple syrup!” This go-around held breath it whether he’d say Canada. Fortunately, we escaped any mention this time around. This time around. Instead, Trump reserved his ire for Panama, threatening to take control of the Panama Canal—a curious and unexpected move.

The choice of venue for the inauguration was striking. Moving the event indoors to the Capitol Rotunda—just four years after it was stormed by Trump supporters—added a layer of irony. This beautiful space was once the backdrop for chaos, and now it was filled with wealthy figures, including tech billionaires, sitting front and centre, while many supporters had to watch from overflow rooms or the Capital One Arena. It really highlighted the disconnect between the political elite and everyday citizens.

As I watched Trump speak, I felt a mix of disbelief and discomfort. His antics—signing decrees and throwing sharpie markers to a cheering crowd—felt more like a show than a serious political event. There was little mention of pressing issues like rising food prices or the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which was disappointing. So much for ending the war on day one.

Having visited the Rotunda myself, I can say it’s an impressive place, but it can also feel a bit gaudy. The large painting of the Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull hung overhead, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin looking askance as everything unfolded, reminding us of long ago U.S. history, and what their painted eyes witnessed 4 years ago. As former presidents like Clinton, Bush Jr., and Obama took their seats, I noticed the contrast between their dignity and Trump’s often outrageous behaviour. It was a grown-up moment, especially since many who have been insulted by Trump chose to attend, showing a level of respect that he often lacks.

Before Trump even began his speech, I started sketching a cartoon, focusing on the past presidents watching the event unfold. It was a reminder that the dignity of the institution might still help keep Trump in check.

This inauguration, held in a space once marred by chaos, serves as a strong symbol of our current political climate. As elites gather amid fears of retribution and with Biden’s pardons reflecting the fragile state of our democracy, it’s crucial to consider the growing influence of wealthy individuals in politics. It’s going to be a long difficult four years.

Enjoy the January 21, 2025 making-of animated editorial cartoon below PLUS a bonus YouTube video I made of Inaugural Speech highlights from history. Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday or 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.

January 21st 2025 editorial cartoon: https://youtu.be/1wdGi-ZrdUk

Key Moments from Inaugural Speeches of the Past: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8MHSlz8ove4

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: USA Tagged: 2025-02, Barack Obama, Benjamin Franklin, Bill Clinton, Democracy, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Founding Fathers, George Bush, George Washington, inauguration, insurrection, Joe Biden, John Adams, Kash Patel, pardons, Qanon Shaman, Retribution, Substack, Thomas Jefferson, USA

Tuesday January 24, 2017

January 23, 2017 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 24, 2017

Welcome to the White House website, home of ‘alternative facts’

In just one weekend, the website has posted false statistics about rising crime, when crime has actually gone down over the last eight years and has ripped down sections about climate change, civil and LGBT rights

If the reader needs evidence that the White House is shifting towards a dictatorial, opaque administration, look no further than its own website

US Presidential Wall Chart by Graeme MacKay

Peruse the site at your own leisure; no need to access this evidence via the “dishonest” media.In just one weekend, the website has posted false statistics about rising crime, when crime has actually gone down over the last eight years. It has ripped down sections about climate change, civil rights and LGBT rights. It has also failed to update its website in a timely fashion, including the executive order section, despite the President having already signed several, including “easing the burden of Obamacare” which threatens millions of Americans with no health care coverage.

The President, his press secretary, senior adviser and chief of staff have all attacked the media in the last three days, saying they have been “deliberately dishonest”.

Press secretary Sean Spicer walked out of his first press conference on Saturday after an angry speech about how the media reported the crowd size at Donald Trump’s inauguration. He did not take a single question. The press briefing part of the website has not been updated.

Senior adviser and former campaign manager Kellyanne Conway defended her colleague, saying he provided the media with “alternative facts”.

The gaffes continue. On the White House’s official page of First Lady Melania Trump, staff added the name of her jewellery brand and then swiftly deleted it after they were accused of promoting her commercial venture.

The same page also reads that Melania Trump “paused her studies” at university to pursue modelling, whereas the campaign’s previous website said she had completed a degree in Slovenia.

Selective curation to advance a right-wing agenda is also being carried out on the website of the US government’s supposedly independent House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. In the “news section” there is an article by right-wing outlet the Washington Examiner, which accuses the director of the Office of Government Ethics, Walter Shaub, for making negative comments about Trump’s alleged conflicts of interest but failing to report alleged conflicts of interest under Obama. (Source: The Independent) 

 

Posted in: USA Tagged: cannot tell a lie, cherry lie, Donald Trump, George Washington, Information, media, quotes, tree, truth, USA, White House

Thursday January, 14, 2016

January 13, 2016 by Graeme MacKay
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator Ð Thursday January, 14, 2016 Canadian dollar will drop to 59 cents US in 2016, Macquarie forecasts A day after the loonie slipped below the 70-cent US level for the first time since 2003, a forecaster at investment bank Macquarie says he expects the loonie to lose another 10 cents to reach an all-time low of 59 cents by the end of 2016. David Doyle of Macquarie Capital Markets Canada Ltd. lowered his Canadian dollar forecast to 59 cents US on Tuesday. That would eclipse the all-time low for the loonie, set on Jan. 21, 2002, at 61.79 cents US. Doyle knows of what he speaks. Last February, when the Canadian dollar was valued at just over 80 cents, he Ñ correctly, as it turns out Ñ predicted the loonie would hit 69 cents US at some point in the next 12 months. It did so Tuesday. "Once [the loonie] reaches this level," Doyle said, "it should remain subdued through [the end of] 2018 and potentially even longer." Doyle's new forecast doesn't see the loonie above 65 cents US at any time between the end of 2016 and the two years that follow. The loonie has been whipsawed of late by oil and the U.S. dollar. Oil prices can't find a bottom, with a barrel of the North America crude oil benchmark dipping below $30 a barrel for the first time in 13 years on Tuesday. That's dragging the loonie down with it, as Canada's dollar is widely considered to be a play on oil prices. But strength in the U.S. dollar is making the loonie look even worse. Economic uncertainty makes investors flock to assets perceived as safe, and for the most part none are perceived to be safer than the U.S. dollar. That drives up the greenback's value. So while the Canadian dollar is sliding lower compared to most currencies, it looks especially cheap compared to the U.S. buck. (Source: CBC News) http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/macquarie-loonie-forecast-1.3401644 Canada, USA, dollar, loonie, currency, George Washington, bridge, cross, borde

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday January, 14, 2016

Canadian dollar will drop to 59 cents US in 2016, Macquarie forecasts

A day after the loonie slipped below the 70-cent US level for the first time since 2003, a forecaster at investment bank Macquarie says he expects the loonie to lose another 10 cents to reach an all-time low of 59 cents by the end of 2016.

Friday January 30, 2015David Doyle of Macquarie Capital Markets Canada Ltd. lowered his Canadian dollar forecast to 59 cents US on Tuesday. That would eclipse the all-time low for the loonie, set on Jan. 21, 2002, at 61.79 cents US.

Doyle knows of what he speaks. Last February, when the Canadian dollar was valued at just over 80 cents, he — correctly, as it turns out — predicted the loonie would hit 69 cents US at some point in the next 12 months.

It did so Tuesday.

“Once [the loonie] reaches this level,” Doyle said, “it should remain subdued through [the end of] 2018 and potentially even longer.”

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, Editorial Cartoonist, The Hamilton Spectator - Thursday October 15, 2009 Big problems in higher dollar There is a certain giddiness attached to a soaring Canadian dollar, with visions of cheaper trips to Florida or New York for those who canÊafford to travel. There is also a degree of smugness about us doing better than the Americans in managing the economy. We should dismiss such thoughts, however. The fact is that a higher-valued dollar is a disaster for Ontario's economy, based as it is onÊexports of manufactured goods into the U.S. market. Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) estimates that, for every hike of oneÊcent in the value of our dollar, 25,000 factory jobs are lost. And since the beginning of this year, the loonie has gone up 15 cents. Partly this is attributable to our better fiscal situation, in comparison to the tax-averse Americans. (The U.S. deficit Ð a staggering $1.6Êtrillion this year Ð is "unsustainable," according to the Congressional Budget Office.) And partly it can be traced to rising prices forÊcommodities, particularly oil, for the loonie is now a "petro-dollar." For manufacturers, this is a double whammy: the higher dollar makes their products less competitive in the American market, and higherÊoil prices drive up their costs. "Canadian manufacturers are really caught between a rock and a hard place," says CME President Jayson Myers. Prime Minister StephenÊHarper notes the "difficult effects" on the economy. (Source: Toronto Star) Canada, Dollar, loonie, strength, strong, imports, exports, fish, skeleton, bones, economy

The good old days

Doyle’s new forecast doesn’t see the loonie above 65 cents US at any time between the end of 2016 and the two years that follow.

The loonie has been whipsawed of late by oil and the U.S. dollar. Oil prices can’t find a bottom, with a barrel of the North America crude oil benchmark dipping below $30 a barrel for the first time in 13 years on Tuesday. That’s dragging the loonie down with it, as Canada’s dollar is widely considered to be a play on oil prices.

June 17, 1998But strength in the U.S. dollar is making the loonie look even worse.

Economic uncertainty makes investors flock to assets perceived as safe, and for the most part none are perceived to be safer than the U.S. dollar. That drives up the greenback’s value. So while the Canadian dollar is sliding lower compared to most currencies, it looks especially cheap compared to the U.S. buck. (Source: CBC News)

Posted in: Business, Canada, International, USA Tagged: Border, bridge, Canada, commerce, cross, currency, dollar, George Washington, loonie, shopping, Trade, travel, USA

Friday January 30 2015

January 30, 2015 by Graeme MacKay

June 17, 1998A redo, 17 years later

In 1998 I had a completely different style when it came to cartooning that relied entirely on the cross hatching technique, a standard used by editorial cartoonists for centuries. By 2001, I had mostly abandoned the usage, thanks to the introduction of Photoshop as a means to edit cartoons on computer. I’m still very fond of the technique and I have file cabinets full of past work. My eyes, however, might be thankful in their own way that the strain that once came at the end of the day as a result of staring down thousands individual ink lines is mostly a thing of the past.

June 17, 1998

From June 17, 1998

1998 was a year when the Canadian dollar experienced a great drop in its value against the US greenback. That’s when it dipped way down into the mid 60 cent range. There it hovered until the start of 2003, when it made its charge towards par, fortified with the strength that came with Canada emerging as a Petro state when oil prices were at record highs. There was a bit of a dip when the loonie got jostled around the the time of the economic meltdown of 2008, but for the most part, the Canadian dollar has been on a course of strength for more than a decade.

So out from the archives comes this cartoon from a different time but for a familiar reckoning we Canadians are not unaccustomed to. Great for exports, lousy for cross-border shopping.

Posted in: Business, Canada, Cartooning, USA Tagged: Canada, caricature, cartoon, dollar, editorial, Editorial Cartoon, George Washington, greenback, Hamilton, loonie, Ontario, Political Cartoon, satire

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This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

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