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Wednesday July 30, 2025

July 30, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday July 30, 2025

Bonnie Crombie and the Complex Challenges of Ontario Liberal Leadership

February 6, 2025

As Bonnie Crombie stands at a pivotal crossroads in her leadership of the Ontario Liberal Party, the complexities and challenges she faces are reminiscent of navigating a vast labyrinth. Despite her efforts to unify and revitalize the party, Crombie finds herself entangled in a web of internal strife and external challenges that threaten to obscure the path forward.

Firstly, Crombie is grappling with a leadership review that demands more than the constitutional 50% support, with factions like the New Leaf Liberals calling for a two-thirds majority. This pressure is compounded by Nate Erskine-Smith’s vocal criticism, as he rallies support against her in what appears to be a bid to reshape the party’s leadership. His actions, seen by some as opportunistic, add another layer of drama to the already tense situation.

News: ‘Tired of this crap’: Liberal MPPs rally around Bonnie Crombie after criticism from Nate Erskine-Smith

February 1, 2025

Crombie’s inability to secure a seat in the legislature further complicates her leadership. Without a direct voice in legislative debates, her influence is inherently limited, raising questions about her effectiveness in opposing Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives. This dilemma has parallels to Pierre Poilievre’s situation at the federal level, where his leadership is similarly challenged by not holding a seat, highlighting a critical gap in political leverage and visibility.

The spectre of past Liberal governments under Wynne and McGuinty looms large, casting long shadows over Crombie’s efforts to distance herself from previous criticisms. The party’s identity crisis is palpable, as it struggles to redefine itself in the wake of historical baggage. This context mirrors the long period Tories spent in opposition post-Harris, suggesting that Crombie may be leading a party years away from regaining power.

News: Crombie vows to fight on in face of Ont. Liberal leadership challenge

September 14, 2024

Crombie’s leadership is further threatened by internal divisions, as some members explore alternative candidates like Jeff Lehman. While Lehman has not expressed an intention to challenge Crombie, his potential candidacy represents a fresh face that could appeal to those disillusioned with the current leadership. This possibility reframes the leadership debate, adding uncertainty to Crombie’s position.

Erskine-Smith, demoted from federal cabinet and known for his maverick tendencies, complicates the internal landscape with his persistent calls for change. His actions risk alienating him from both federal and provincial Liberals, yet they also highlight the restless ambition that characterizes much of the party’s internal dynamics.

Analysis: Bonnie Crombie should prepare for a leadership challenge — and not only from the usual suspects

March 22, 2024

In sum, Bonnie Crombie’s leadership is beset by a confluence of grim realities, from internal infighting and identity struggles to external political challenges and historical legacies. The parallel with Poilievre’s seat dilemma underscores the challenges of leading without direct legislative influence. As she stands at the “You are here” point on this complex map, the path out of the labyrinth is fraught with obstacles that require strategic navigation. The question remains: can Crombie chart a course that not only leads her out of this political maze but also revitalizes a party long removed from the levers of power? The answer lies in her ability to unify diverse factions, redefine the party’s identity, and effectively counter the political forces arrayed against her.

Two party leaders lead parallel lives

Pierre Poilievre and Bonnie Crombie have faced similar challenges recently. Both struggled in their elections last year, failing to win over voters and losing their own seats. Neither could unseat governments that have shifted towards the center.Bonnie Crombie’s views aren’t too different from Doug Ford’s, making her position tricky.

On the other hand, Poilievre seemed strong against Justin Trudeau but can’t compete with Mark Carney. Polls suggest that if an election were held today, Carney’s Liberals would likely win a majority.

One feels for Bonnie Crombie, who has a tough road ahead swatting away rival opportunists like Nate Erskine-Smith. But it’s hard to hold any sympathy for Poilievre, who lost a big lead and pursued questionable ideas. With Trudeau gone and Carney in the picture, Poilievre seems stuck as just an opposition leader, drawing comparisons to Donald Trump, which doesn’t help his future prospects.

Tuesday May 27 2025

May 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

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

King Charles III’s visit to Canada underscores the country’s sovereignty and distinct identity amid geopolitical tensions with the U.S.

Canada’s Sovereign Stand Against U.S. Pressure

May 6, 2023

As King Charles III arrives in Canada for his first visit as monarch, the event is rich with meaning and strategic foresight. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s invitation for the King to deliver the Speech from the Throne is more than a ceremonial gesture; it’s a powerful assertion of Canada’s independence and distinct identity. This move comes at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has been making dismissive remarks about Canada’s status, and it serves as a clear message that Canada stands proudly on its own.

When Carney was sworn in as Prime Minister, he described Canada as a country “built on the bedrock of three peoples: Indigenous, French, and British.” This statement captures the essence of Canada’s diverse heritage, highlighting a nation that neither leans towards American influence nor forgets its roots. By inviting King Charles III to read the Throne Speech, Carney underscores this foundation, setting a tone that is both inclusive and assertive.

Opinion: King Charles’s visit to Canada: A Commonwealth flex with an audience of one

May 17, 2025

Carney’s use of this royal visit as a diplomatic tool showcases his government’s approach to international relations. His first official trip to Paris, London, and Iqaluit mirrored this blend, reinforcing ties with France and the UK while acknowledging the crucial role of Indigenous communities within Canada. During his time in London, Carney extended the invitation to the King, who was eager to accept. This isn’t just about tradition; it’s about strengthening the bonds that link Canada to the Commonwealth and its constitutional monarchy.

The visit takes place at a critical time when Canada’s relationship with its southern neighbour is being tested. Trump’s repeated comments about Canada potentially becoming the 51st U.S. state have been met with widespread concern. In this context, the royal visit is a clear message to Trump—and the world—that Canada’s sovereignty is firm. It’s a symbolic gesture, reminding Trump that Canada’s path is its own.

BBC: King’s invitation to Canada sends a message to Trump – and the world

June 10, 2022

While the visit includes traditional ceremonies, like military honours and a ceremonial tree planting, it serves a deeper purpose. It highlights the ongoing role of the monarchy in Canada’s governance and its relevance today. Including Indigenous leaders and cultural elements reflects Canada’s commitment to reconciliation and acknowledging its diverse heritage.

Public opinion on the monarchy might be mixed, but the significance of this visit goes beyond individual views. It reaffirms Canada’s heritage and declares its future on the world stage. The monarchy, often seen as a relic, finds new relevance as a diplomatic tool in modern times. Carney’s actions show a keen understanding of the power of symbolism in global politics and the importance of defining a nation’s identity through its history and constitution.

News: Why King Charles’s upcoming visit to Canada is unprecedented in many ways

King Charles III’s visit to Canada is more than a ceremonial occasion; it’s a defining moment in Prime Minister Carney’s diplomatic strategy. It’s a bold statement of independence and a celebration of the diverse peoples that form Canada. As Trump watches, this royal visit serves as a reminder of Canada’s steadfast independence and commitment to its principles. This historic moment isn’t just about the past; it’s about a clear vision for the future, where Canada’s identity is proudly asserted on its own terms.

The Crown Reconsidered by The Graeme Gallery

Tuesday May 27 2025

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Monday March 17, 2025

March 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Monday March 17, 2025

Also published in the Toronto Star.

The End of an Era: Farewell to Hudson’s Bay, a Canadian Icon

As we bid farewell to Hudson’s Bay Company, we are not just witnessing the closure of a retail chain but the end of an era that has woven itself into the very fabric of Canadian history and identity. For over three centuries, Hudson’s Bay has been more than a shopping destination; it has been a symbol of exploration, innovation, and resilience.

Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay was at the forefront of the fur trade, playing a pivotal role in the exploration and mapping of vast stretches of North America. Its iconic trading posts served as the foundation for many Canadian communities, marking the beginning of settlements that would grow into thriving cities. The company’s history is a testament to the spirit of adventure and enterprise that has shaped our nation.

News: Hudson’s Bay returns to court to seek approval to begin liquidating its business

However, the trajectory of Hudson’s Bay took a significant turn in 2008, when it was acquired by NRDC Equity Partners, a U.S. equity group. This acquisition marked a new chapter for the company, reflecting the broader realities of globalization. We’ve become accustomed to seeing long-established Canadian institutions pass into foreign hands—from donuts to beer, and from steel companies to department stores. Many things Canadians have embraced as their own are now under the control of foreign corporations.

To Canadian nationalists, this trend can feel like an affront. The idea that the fate of a Tim Horton’s maple glazed donut rests with a board in Ohio or that a Molson Canadian beer is influenced by decisions made in Denver can be unsettling. Similarly, the sale of Hudson’s Bay to an American investment corporation might be dismissed with a yawn by some, but it’s emblematic of a larger shift.

What many, including myself, find intriguing and lamentable is how the story of the once mighty Hudson’s Bay Company ends like this. A company that ruled over vast, undeveloped lands in North America for centuries is now just another token of commerce, passed between owners with little regard for its historical significance. Chartered in 1670 by King Charles II, Hudson’s Bay built relationships with Indigenous peoples, mapped rivers and coastlines, and laid the groundwork for Canada as we know it today. It’s difficult to dismiss this as just another corporate transaction.

News: The fall of Hudson’s Bay Co., a Canadian retail icon

In the present day, the rub against Canadians is compounded by the rhetoric from the current President, who openly discusses the idea of annexation and making Canada the 51st state. This adds another layer of complexity and tension, as Canadians grapple with the loss of iconic brands and the broader implications of such political discourse.

Yet, amidst this change, there is a silver lining. The original documents, photos, drawings, and records of the Hudson’s Bay Company will remain in Canada, preserved in the HBC Archives in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This ensures that the legacy of Hudson’s Bay, its contributions to Canadian history, and its influence on the development of the nation will not be forgotten.

July 18, 2008

As we move forward, let us honour the legacy of Hudson’s Bay by supporting local businesses, fostering community connections, and celebrating the rich tapestry of Canadian history that it helped to create. The end of Hudson’s Bay is a loss, but it is also an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Canadian and how we can carry forward the values that have defined this iconic institution for centuries.

This editorial cartoon was adapted from one which was originally published July 18, 2008

As I think about the closure of Hudson’s Bay, I find myself reflecting on its significance in shaping Canada’s history. While I can’t recall the last time I visited one of their stores, my connection to Hudson’s Bay is symbolized by the iconic striped blanket that keeps me warm every night—a fun fact being that these blankets are actually made in the UK.

Today, I’m in Toronto for an event tonight, and plan to make a nostalgic stop this afternoon at the flagship store at Yonge and Bay. If its doors are still open, I’ll take a moment to appreciate the memories and legacy of this storied institution.

The transition of Hudson’s Bay into American ownership in 2008 was a moment I captured in a cartoon, and now, with the rise of e-commerce, it faces new challenges. Although the retail landscape has changed, the history and impact of Hudson’s Bay continue to resonate, reminding us of its enduring role in our national narrative.

This editorial cartoon was adapted from one which was originally published July 18, 2008 https://mackaycartoons.net/2008/07/18/july-18-2008/

– The Graeme Gallery

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Saturday February 15, 2025

February 15, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 15, 2025

A Call to Fly the Flag with Pride

As we approach the 60th anniversary of Flag Day, a moment of profound reflection and unity is upon us. The gesture by Canada’s living former prime ministers—Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper—urging Canadians to fly the country’s flag with pride comes at a time when national unity is both challenged and needed more than ever. This call to action is not merely symbolic; it is a powerful rallying cry for Canadians to stand together in the face of external pressures and internal reflections.

June 3, 2015

Canada finds itself navigating a complex political landscape, particularly with U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated taunts about making Canada the 51st state. Such remarks are more than just words; they are provocations that strike at the heart of Canadian sovereignty and identity. Even the most reserved Canadians must feel a surge of indignation at these bullying and ignorant assertions. In this context, flying the flag becomes an act of defiance and a statement of resilience, reminding us of our strength and independence.

News: Five former PMs urge Canadians to show national unity on Flag Day, in the face of Trump’s ‘threats and insults’

July 27, 2024

While waving the flag is a unifying gesture, it must be accompanied by concrete actions. Canada’s future prosperity and security depend on reducing inter-provincial trade barriers, bolstering defence capabilities, and forging new alliances beyond the United States. These actions will not only strengthen our economy and security but also affirm our sovereignty on the global stage.

November 9, 2018

The former prime ministers’ call to fly the flag also signifies a reclamation of this national symbol. In recent years, the Canadian flag has been a marker of national reflection, flown at half-mast to acknowledge past injustices against Indigenous communities. It was also co-opted by far-right movements, such as the Freedom Convoy, which espoused anti-science and anti-multilateralist views. By urging Canadians to display the flag with pride, these former leaders are reclaiming it as a symbol of unity, diversity, and shared values.

News: Patriotism, a big rally and, of course, new slogans: Inside Pierre Poilievre’s Trump-induced strategy shift

November 17, 2023

As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our flag, let us heed the call of Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper. Let this day be a reminder of what it means to be Canadian—a nation strong in its diversity, proud of its heritage, and unwavering in its commitment to unity and progress. By flying our flag, we not only honour our past but also commit to a future where we stand together, resilient and proud, against any challenge that comes our way.

I’m really impressed by how our former Prime Ministers—Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper—are stepping up to reclaim the Canadian Flag on its big 60th anniversary. They’re doing a fantastic job of reminding us what the flag truly stands for: unity, pride, and resilience. I was nice to draw caricatures of them.

Shameless Plug: I sell Prime Minister merch here.

During the pandemic, our flag got hijacked by a bunch of far-right extremists waving Trump banners and spouting nonsense that had nothing to do with Canadian values. It’s about time we yanked it back from those folks who seemed more interested in conspiracy theories than community.

But let’s be real, the flag’s been through the wringer before. Prior to the Freedom Convoy, some left-wing activists took it to extremes, turning essential conversations about reconciliation with Indigenous peoples into a broader narrative of shame about Canada.

This all led to tearing down statues and renaming places tied to figures like Sir John A. Macdonald, who caught a lot of flak for things he did way back when. Meanwhile, other Prime Ministers, whose actions are also up for debate these days, still have their statues standing tall. It’s a bit of a mixed bag. The inconsistency extends to airports, hospitals, and schools still bearing names of other historical figures, making it all feel pretty selective.

It’d be great if the “Team Canada” Prime Ministers could push for a more balanced look at these historical symbols. Maybe bring back some statues and place names, recognizing our full history instead of cherry-picking what to remember. This could really complement their current efforts, helping us see the whole picture of our past and what our flag truly represents.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Wednesday February 5, 2025

February 5, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 5, 2025

Donald Trump’s tariff threats have united Canadians, sparking renewed patriotism and prompting a reassessment of economic independence and national identity.

Maple Resurgence: How Trump’s Tariffs Sparked Canadian Unity

Canada stands at a crossroads, grappling with its colonial history and the complex issues it brings, such as the toppling of statues and the reevaluation of historical figures. While these events have sparked important debates, an unexpected force has recently united Canadians: the economic and political pressures from Donald Trump’s administration.

For years, Canada’s economic prosperity hinged on access to the U.S. market through agreements like NAFTA. However, Trump’s tariff threats and talk of annexation have disrupted this relationship, forcing Canada to rethink its strategy. This pressure has ignited a renewed sense of Canadian unity and pride, transcending political lines and regional divides.

News: How Donald Trump’s attacks on Canada are stoking a new Canadian nationalism

June 27, 2017

Across the country, citizens and leaders are rallying around the “Buy Canadian Instead” movement. Actions like removing U.S. products from shelves in British Columbia and Ontario illustrate a collective stand against economic coercion. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s firm stance and the viral slogan “Canada Is Not For Sale” have resonated deeply, reinforcing the nation’s independence and shared values.

This resurgence of Canadian patriotism isn’t merely a reaction to external threats. It’s about embracing an inclusive, diverse, and resilient identity. While Canada’s colonial past and economic dependencies are acknowledged, they now contribute to a narrative of a nation ready to adapt and thrive.

Editorial: Donald Trump has done Canada one big favour

June 30, 2021

Public sentiment reflects a readiness to redefine Canada’s economic landscape, emphasizing internal free trade and global partnerships. The realization that reliance on the U.S. has been both beneficial and limiting has led to a push for a self-reliant and competitive economy.

In these challenging times, Canada’s unity and resilience shine brightly. The nation is coming together to face the future with confidence and pride, demonstrating that it is defined not just by its history, but by its ability to learn, adapt, and unite for a better tomorrow.

You know, it’s funny how Canadians pretty much define ourselves by what we aren’t. A big part of being Canadian is not being American, and let’s be real, there’s a side of that which leans into anti-American sentiment. It’s been a part of our relationship with the U.S. for as long as we’ve known each other. Despite being the closest of neighbours, sharing a language, and fighting together for freedom, we have our own distinct customs and traditions.

But then, Donald Trump came along and rattled things up. His tariff threats have stirred up a hornet’s nest of Canadian pride and, yes, some anti-American feelings too. This has brought us together, but it’s also a wake-up call to do more than just react.

We need to bolster our country beyond the usual talk of restoring the military and breaking down trade barriers. Let’s start by taking pride in our history. Sure, it’s not all pretty, and the people of the past didn’t live by today’s standards. But burying history doesn’t help us grow. We should learn from our mistakes and celebrate our successes because our nation is born from them.

Whether English, French, Multicultural, or First Nations Indigenous, we need to embrace our rich and diverse identity. This is who we are, and it’s something to be proud of. So while Trump’s actions have united us, let’s use this moment to build a stronger, more self-reliant Canada. One that isn’t just proud of not being American, but proud of being Canadian for all the right reasons.

– The Graeme Gallery

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