isolation – mackaycartoons

Friday April 11, 2025

April 11, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 11, 2025 (Also, The Toronto Star, April 13, 2025)

A Circus of Chaos and Consequences

April 10, 2025

In the annals of American leadership, few figures have managed to blend showmanship with governance quite like Donald Trump. Touting himself as the mastermind behind “The Art of the Deal,” Trump promised to harness his negotiating prowess to fortify the U.S. economy and elevate its standing on the global stage. Yet, as recent events have painfully demonstrated, Trump’s leadership style has proven less an art form and more a chaotic spectacle, reminiscent of a ratings-dropping game show rather than strategic statecraft.

Opinion: What Trump Just Cost America

Trump’s recent decision to impose and then abruptly pause tariffs, excluding China, has not only destabilized markets but shattered trust in American leadership. Announcing a 90-day pause, Trump expected foreign leaders to flock to his door, eager to negotiate. Instead, as Thomas L. Friedman of The New York Times aptly noted, his actions have echoed the old adage: if you hire clowns, expect a circus.

The administration’s rationale for these tariffs — from curbing fentanyl to funding tax cuts — fluctuated as erratically as the stock market during his tenure. Trump’s so-called principles crumbled under pressure, revealing a strategy not rooted in sound economic theory but in impulse-driven theatrics. The result? A loss of billions and an even more invaluable currency: trust.

Opinion: America is lost. But we can still save the rest of the world from Trump’s tariffs

April 3, 2025

In one fell swoop, Trump equated long-standing allies with adversaries like China and Russia, applying tariffs indiscriminately and disregarding decades of partnership. Countries that stood shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. in moments of global crisis were left questioning their alliance with a nation that seemed to value spectacle over substance.

Friedman likened this diplomatic blunder to the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan — a strategic misstep that Trump’s tariffs have now emulated in the trade arena. Yet, unlike Afghanistan, this self-imposed trade war has no exit strategy, leaving America isolated at a time when unity is paramount.

Trump’s approach to China, a nation with vast manufacturing capabilities, was a tactical misfire. Rather than rallying global allies to address trade imbalances collaboratively, Trump went it alone, fostering animosity instead of alliance. Friedman highlights this failure to unite against a common economic rival as a critical error, strengthening Beijing’s position while allies now view China as a more stable partner than the unpredictable U.S.

News: Trump’s Encouragement of Stock Investors Draws Scrutiny

March 26, 2025

The Trump era’s hallmark is not economic resurgence but rather a profound erosion of American values and influence. His administration’s apparent disregard for ethical governance has fueled suspicions of market manipulation and insider trading, with allegations, as Friedman points out, that Trump’s inner circle profited from his policy pivots. Such actions, if proven, would underscore a presidency marred by self-interest and oligarchic tendencies.

In the end, Trump’s “Art of the Deal” narrative unfolds more like an episode of “Let’s Make a Deal,” where the stakes are not merely ratings but the very credibility and leadership of the United States. As the curtain falls on this chapter of American policymaking, the world grapples with a sobering reality: faith in American leadership has been not just shaken, but shattered.

As America navigates the aftermath of Trump’s tenure, it must work tirelessly to rebuild the bridges burned by his reckless policies. This requires a commitment to transparency, ethical governance, and strategic alliances that prioritize collective prosperity over individual gain. Only then can the U.S. hope to restore its standing as a leader not just in power, but in principle.

Pardon the Conspiracy theory But… As I’ve been reading through various articles and the comments sections, one thing is clear: the idea of insider trading is dominating people’s minds. Many are questioning who might have been tipped off about the reversal. It feels eerily similar to the 2008 scenario, with concerns about how many people panicked and sold low, only for a select few to profit when the market surged.

The opinion pieces aren’t holding back either, pointing out how Trump’s actions have not only wiped out investments but also eroded trust in the system. It’s frustrating to see such recklessness from someone in charge, and the lack of transparency and accountability is a real concern.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 11, 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

Thursday April 3, 2025

April 3, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 3, 2025

Liberation Day or Isolation Day?

April 2, 2025

On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump is set to unveil what he heralds as “Liberation Day,” marking the imposition of sweeping tariffs on numerous trading partners, including long-standing allies like Canada. While the administration touts this day as a turning point in American history, a deeper examination reveals a far more troubling narrative. Rather than ushering in a new era of economic independence and prosperity, these actions are poised to isolate the United States, strain international alliances, and sow seeds of distrust globally.

News: Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ arrives as he gambles big on risky tariff policy

March 28, 2025

Trump’s tariffs are designed to prioritize American industries and reduce reliance on foreign goods. However, this economic nationalism neglects the intricate realities of a globally integrated economy. The immediate imposition of broad-based tariffs threatens to disrupt supply chains, inflate consumer prices, and provoke retaliatory measures from affected countries. As Ontario Premier Doug Ford aptly stated, “the only acceptable thing is zero tariffs,” highlighting the mutual economic harm that such protectionist policies can unleash. Ford went so far as to rebrand Trump’s “Liberation Day” as “Termination Day,” reflecting the anticipated economic disruptions and job losses that could ensue.

March 13, 2025

The imposition of tariffs on Canada, a nation with which the U.S. shares the world’s longest undefended border, underscores a broader trend of eroding trust among allies. Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney declared the traditional U.S.-Canada relationship “over,” a sentiment echoed by other nations wary of Trump’s unpredictable policies. The decision to downgrade military technology for allies, as evidenced by the F-47 aircraft, further cements the perception that America can no longer be relied upon as a steadfast partner.

News: How Trump Supercharged Distrust, Driving U.S. Allies Away

Domestically, Trump’s policies have sparked political division and raised concerns about potential economic downturns. Polls indicate significant public disapproval of his trade strategies, with fears that the tariffs will lead to job losses and economic contraction. Internationally, the backlash has been swift, with countries like Canada announcing retaliatory tariffs and exploring new trade partnerships to mitigate U.S. dependence.

March 5, 2025

The long-term implications of “Liberation Day” extend beyond immediate economic repercussions. As allies seek to diversify their economic and military alliances, the global power dynamic is shifting. Nations like Canada and Japan are exploring new markets and defence strategies, while the European Union accelerates trade deals with South America and India. This realignment threatens to diminish U.S. influence on the world stage, challenging the very notion of American exceptionalism.

Economists overwhelmingly argue that Trump’s gamble is unwise, with potential for calamitous effects on both domestic and global scales. The tariffs risk triggering a global trade war, reminiscent of the protectionist measures that deepened the Great Depression. Rather than strengthening the U.S. economy, these actions could isolate America and undermine decades of international cooperation and progress.

News: ‘Termination Day’: Ford dismisses Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ comments hours before new U.S. tariffs to be introduced

February 5, 2025

While “Liberation Day” is heralded by its architect as a historic triumph, most observers, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, see it as a day of reckoning. Ford’s designation of this event as “Termination Day” encapsulates the reality that this is not a moment of celebration but a cautionary tale of the perils of unilateralism in an interconnected world. As the world watches, it becomes clear that the consequences of this misguided policy may be felt far and wide, challenging the stability and prosperity of both the United States and its global partners.

Termination Day

With today’s news from the White House Rose Garden, it’s anyone’s guess what truly drives Trump’s obsession with imposing trade tariffs on most products entering the U.S. If there’s one thing he’s been consistent on throughout his life, it’s his belief in tariffs. He attempted this the last time he was President but was reined in by saner advisers. Now, surrounded by yes men, he will forge ahead, putting livelihoods on the line as a lame-duck President with nothing to lose.

His actions will not only bring misery to the American people but will also reverberate across the globe, disrupting economies and trade relationships. The markets will be the first to react on Thursday morning, signalling the widespread economic anxiety his policies are triggering. The trade order as we know it is done. The trust the U.S. once enjoyed among its longstanding allies is eroding rapidly.

The Rose Garden event today was littered with misleading claims from the President. As Doug Ford aptly put it, “Liberation Day is Termination Day,” and the reality of that statement will soon become painfully evident.

YouTube animation: https://youtu.be/T1Uw2F_LHrI

– The Graeme Gallery

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Saturday March 29, 2025

March 29, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 29, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Featured in The Daily Cartoonist

Arctic Ambitions: A New Era of American Expansionism

March 1, 2025

In an era where the world’s geopolitical landscape is ever-evolving, the spectre of American expansionism has reemerged in a form reminiscent of a bygone age. The recent developments surrounding the U.S. interest in Greenland, fuelled by President Donald Trump’s ambitions, have brought to light a narrative that harks back to the days of imperialism and territorial conquest.

The notion of annexing Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, seems almost anachronistic in today’s global order. Yet, it is a reality unfolding before our eyes, driven by strategic interests in the Arctic’s abundant resources and its pivotal location. This new chapter of American expansionism challenges not only international norms but also the trust and alliances that the United States has cultivated over decades.

News: JD Vance, his wife to tour U.S. military base in Greenland after diplomatic spat over uninvited visit

March 6, 2025

The diplomatic debacle surrounding Vice President J.D. Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance’s visit to Greenland highlights the broader implications of this expansionist agenda. The strong local opposition, reflected in protests and refusals to engage with the U.S. delegation, underscores the importance of respecting sovereignty and the voices of local populations. The trip, initially intended as a cultural and diplomatic engagement, was reduced to a brief visit to a military base, symbolizing the isolation and unwelcomeness of American overtures.

The strategic interests in Greenland—its oil, gas, and mineral wealth—make it a coveted prize for any nation. However, the pursuit of such gains under the guise of national security risks alienating America’s allies and eroding the trust built over generations. The parallels to the Monroe Doctrine and Teddy Roosevelt’s gunboat diplomacy are stark, yet this iteration lacks the subtlety of “walking softly.” Instead, it wields a “big stick” that could isolate the U.S. on the world stage.

Opinion: Putin nods to Trump plans to seize Greenland

August 1, 2024

In a twist reminiscent of James Gillray’s famous cartoon “Plumb Pudding in Danger,” Russian President Vladimir Putin’s reaction to Trump’s Greenland ambitions is notably accepting, as if part of a predetermined exchange. It evokes a scenario where territorial aspirations are casually traded, with whispers of “you can have Ukraine if I can have Greenland.” As these geopolitical machinations unfold, one can’t help but imagine a sequel: “and if all goes well, Vlad, I’ll let you take Europe if I can have Canada.” These are the crazy times in which we live, where world leaders appear to carve up the globe with alarming nonchalance.

Opinion: So many souvenirs for JD Vance to take home from Greenland: oil, gas, minerals – and that’s just the start

As nations strategize against this new reality, the U.S. risks becoming friendless and isolated, cashing in the trust it once held as an honest broker. The actions of one man, Donald Trump, threaten to redefine America’s image and its relationships, casting long shadows over its diplomatic legacy.

In this unfolding drama, Greenland stands not just as a potential trophy of expansion but as a symbol of the mistrust and uncertainty facing a world grappling with the resurgence of imperial ambitions. The challenge for the U.S. is to navigate these waters with respect for international norms, lest it finds itself adrift in a sea of its own making.

Add VANCE to Greenland

Today, Usha Vance, along with J.D. Vance, visited Greenland. What was supposed to be a diplomatic and warm visit turned into just a stop at a U.S. Army base. Unfortunately, Usha still had to go on this altered trip.

This happened against the backdrop of a phone call between Mark Carney and Donald Trump. It was their first call, and while such calls usually happen quickly to extend congratulations, Trump didn’t follow the norm. Surprisingly, the call was cordial and uneventful, which is notable given the current tense climate.

In contrast, previous calls with Trudeau ended in heated exchanges, with Trump later making rude comments about Canada. However, today’s call had none of that drama. Despite this, Trump is unpredictable and could still make disrespectful remarks elsewhere.

In the call, it was confirmed that tariffs are coming on April 2, labeled “liberation day,” but thankfully, there was no mention of annexing Canada. However, for Greenland, we stand with its people and Denmark against Trump’s aggressive stance.

The visit to Greenland highlights the unpredictable nature of Trump’s diplomacy and the challenges that come with it.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 29, 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

Thursday March 13, 2025

March 13, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 13, 2025

Tariff Turmoil: When Protectionism Backfires

March 3, 2018

The tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on aluminum and steel imports were meant to protect American industry and jobs, but they might end up harming the consumers and workers they were supposed to help. As countries like Canada respond with their own tariffs, the economic impact could isolate the U.S. and destabilize its economy.

These tariffs act like a hidden tax, raising the cost of materials essential for many products. As businesses face higher costs, they pass these expenses on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for everyday items. For American families already dealing with rising living costs, this adds an extra financial burden instead of the relief promised.

News: Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on $29.8-billion worth of U.S. steel

October 31, 2013

Moreover, these tariffs put American jobs at risk, especially in industries that depend on international trade. In places like Hamilton, where steel and aluminum production are key, the effects are significant. Canadian producers lose access to the U.S. market, and American manufacturers relying on Canadian materials face challenges, threatening jobs and economic stability.

The market has reacted with uncertainty, reflecting fears of a recession. Economists warn that unclear trade policies might stifle investment and slow economic growth, undoing recent progress. The panic in the markets highlights the fragility of a strategy lacking coherence and foresight.

As other countries impose retaliatory tariffs, the risk of isolation grows. Trade wars rarely have winners, and escalating tensions can strain diplomatic relations and reduce global cooperation. In an interconnected world, pursuing protectionism might leave the U.S. at a disadvantage, missing opportunities for collaboration and growth.

News: Europe retaliates against Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum

March 5, 2025

The current U.S. trade policy under President Trump seems misguided. Instead of helping American consumers and workers, it risks harming economic prosperity. Policymakers need to rethink their approach, engaging with trading partners and developing strategies that focus on innovation and competitiveness.

Trump’s tariff measures could bring pain to consumers and industries across North America. As these effects unfold, a more balanced approach to trade is needed. By fostering cooperation and understanding the realities of a global economy, the U.S. can work towards a future where prosperity is shared, fulfilling the promises made to the American people.

Trump hits Home

I would have loved to draw something on that bizarre car salesman promo Donald Trump staged on the South Lawn of the White House for his billionaire buddy Elon Musk’s struggling company, Tesla. But instead, I found myself compelled to reflect on the more serious story of how Trump’s actions have hit home here in Hamilton. His tariffs on aluminum and steel, which were supposed to protect American industries, are now threatening to raise consumer prices and jeopardize jobs right here in our steel city—ground zero for Canada’s domestic production.

Canada is responding with its own tariffs, and the economic ripples are being felt across North America, hitting Hamilton especially hard.

No other President in my lifetime has impacted me, my family, and my city so personally. Trump’s poor handling of the pandemic, including the prolonged land border closures, directly affected us. Although intended to protect public health, these closures strained our healthcare services and took a toll on our local economy.

Donald Trump feigns outrage at Doug Ford’s threats to cut off Ontario electricity to American consumers, calling it a horrible way to treat people. Meanwhile, I live in Hamilton, where the lights are about to go out on thousands of livelihoods due to a trade war the President is determined to wage, weakening his nation’s once-closest ally.

Through my cartoons, I aim to highlight these real, personal impacts, hoping to spark the change we need for a more sensible approach. Americans, the world is counting on you to end the carnage!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday January 11, 2025

January 11, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday January 11, 2025, and The Toronto Star

Unity in the Face of Chaos

Marvelous Maps

This past week in Canada has been nothing short of surreal. With the resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the nation finds itself at a political crossroads, grappling with the implications of a leadership void. Yet, remarkably, it’s not the internal political machinations that have captured the nation’s attention. Instead, it’s the unexpected and audacious interference from south of the border, courtesy of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, that has united Canadians in a way few could have anticipated.

January 9, 2025

In a series of provocative statements, Trump has suggested that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States through “economic force.” This rhetoric, while seemingly far-fetched, has had a curious effect on a nation that has, in recent years, struggled with its sense of national identity and pride. It’s as though Trump’s ambition to “Make America Great Again” is being pursued by making life as unpleasant as possible for America’s neighbours, casting a shadow over the Canadian political landscape and, ironically, prompting a resurgence of Canadian unity and patriotism.

Opinion: Trump’s threats of using ‘economic force’ to annex Canada are far more important than who will replace Trudeau

Trump’s threats of using ‘economic force’ to annex Canada are far more important than who will replace Trudeau

November 18, 2024

As Andrew Phillips noted in The Toronto Star, the leadership race to replace Trudeau might seem significant, but it pales in comparison to the implications of Trump’s threats. The real story is how these threats have overshadowed internal divisions and prompted Canadians to rally together in defence of their sovereignty. Trump’s rhetoric has, in a way, reminded Canadians of their shared values and identity, rekindling a sense of national pride that had been waning.

Murray Mandryk’s piece in the Regina Leader Post captures this unexpected unity beautifully. Despite being one of the most divisive figures globally, Trump’s threats have brought Canadians together, transcending political and regional differences. Leaders from across the political spectrum, from Trudeau to Pierre Poilievre and even Maxime Bernier, have denounced the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting Canada’s sovereignty.

Opinion: Trump doing remarkable things to unite a badly divided Canada

November 8, 2024

This unity is reminiscent of the national pride displayed during Olympic hockey events, where Canadians set aside their differences to cheer for a common cause. It’s a reminder of what it means to be Canadian, beyond simply “not being American.” As Mandryk aptly points out, Trump’s ill-defined threats have unified Canadians of all political stripes, reawakening a sense of patriotism and solidarity.

In the comments section of Lawrence Martin’s article in The Globe and Mail, readers express scepticism about the influence of public figures like Wayne Gretzky and Bobby Orr. Yet, it’s clear that the broader effect of Trump’s rhetoric has been to unite Canadians at a grassroots level. This is a testament to the resilience of the Canadian spirit, which thrives on civility and respect for democratic values.

Opinion: Gretzky and Orr need to have a real faceoff with their man, Donald Trump

October 2, 2020

Adding to this surreal week is the cooperative spirit between Canada and the U.S. in responding to the devastating wildfires in Southern California. Canada’s emergency preparedness minister, Harjit Sajjan, announced that Canadian military personnel, equipment, and several hundred firefighters stand ready to support American efforts. Provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta have pledged resources, including firefighters and aircraft, to assist in battling the blazes.

This willingness to assist our American neighbours in their time of need underscores the deep-rooted cooperation and goodwill that exists between our nations, despite political tensions. It highlights Canada’s commitment to being a good neighbour and partner, reinforcing the idea that unity and cooperation are core to our national identity.

In the midst of political chaos and division, Trump’s attempt to sow discord may have inadvertently achieved the opposite effect. Canadians are rallying together, reaffirming their commitment to an independent and strong nation. This week, we have been reminded of the strength that comes from unity and the enduring pride that defines us as Canadians. It is, perhaps, a silver lining in an otherwise tumultuous time, and for that, we might, ironically, thank Donald Trump.

I wanted to take a moment to share some thoughts that have been swirling in my mind after what has been a truly monumental week. As many of you know, I’ve always had a love for maps. Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being a “mapmaker” – little did I know, that fancy title is actually called cartography, and it comes with a side of math that I’ve never quite mastered!

While my dreams of drawing maps for a living didn’t quite pan out, I’ve found a way to channel that passion into my work as an editorial cartoonist. This week, inspired by the theory of continental drift, I created a cartoon that depicts the continental USA drifting away from Canada, Mexico, and the rest of the world to become an isolated island in the Pacific Ocean. I can’t help but think Donald Trump would be quite pleased with that scenario!

This week has been a rollercoaster for us Canadians. With Prime Minister Trudeau’s resignation and Trump’s audacious comments about annexing Canada, we’ve seen a surprising surge in national unity. It’s fascinating how external threats can overshadow our political divisions and rally us together in defence of our sovereignty.

In the face of these challenges, Canadians from all walks of life have come together. Our cooperative efforts to tackle the wildfires in Southern California further highlight our commitment to neighborly support. It’s a reminder of the core values of unity and cooperation that truly define what it means to be Canadian.

So here’s to maps, to unity, and to finding humour in the chaos!

Enjoy the January 11, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. 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.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack