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Jagmeet Singh

Sunday April 27, 2025

April 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Election 2025 Cartoons

A gallery of editorial cartoons leading up the the April 28, 2025 federal election campaign: 

Pierre Poilievre faces challenges adapting his strategy against the fresh leadership of Mark Carney, as Canada's political dynamics shift from opposition to unity.
March 15, 2025
Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.
March 21, 2025
Danielle Smith's alignment with Trump complicates Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's campaign as he seeks to distance the party from divisive politics while facing criticism over perceived weaknesses.
March 25, 2025
Doug Ford and Mark Carney's collaborative relationship offers a pragmatic approach to tackling Canada's economic challenges, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's divisive style.
March 26, 2025
The NDP faces a pivotal election, struggling for relevance as Jagmeet Singh seeks to distinguish the party amid challenges and historical achievements.
March 27, 2025
Canada reconsiders its auto industry alliances, will it embrace European and Chinese EVs for a sustainable future amid U.S. trade tensions?
March 28, 2025
The 2025 Canadian election faces unprecedented foreign interference threats, notably from the US, leveraging social media to manipulate voter sentiment.
March 24, 2025
Canada, Pierre Poilievre, Donald Trump, Mark Carney, Liberation Day, tariffs, Canada, auto, trade, economy, leadership, "maple MAGA", politics, strategy, allegations, election
April 2, 2025
Paul Chiang's resignation amid controversy over foreign interference comments highlights leadership challenges for Mark Carney and the Liberal Party.
April 2, 2025
Amid rising separatist sentiments and tensions in Western Canada, the need for dialogue and compromise is paramount to address regional grievances while promoting national unity.
April 8, 2025
April 9, 2025
April 9, 2025
Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.
April 12, 2025
The 2025 Canadian election sees major parties sidestepping climate change, prioritizing immediate economic concerns while the urgency of the climate crisis remains unaddressed.
April 15, 2025
Trump's rhetoric and policies loom over Canada's leaders' debate, influencing politics and personal decisions.
April 17, 2025
Pierre Poilievre's plan to invoke the notwithstanding clause threatens Canadian democratic norms and sets a dangerous precedent for federal governance.
April 19, 2025
As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.
April 22, 2025
Pierre Poilievre sets a 2% GDP defence target by 2030, aligning with Mark Carney's similar commitment to enhance Canada's military spending.
April 23, 2025
As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh's leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party's need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.
April 24, 2025
As Canada's election campaign nears its end, Trump's rhetoric and policies become pivotal in shaping voter perceptions of leaders Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney.
April 25, 2025
Canada's upcoming election becomes a historic moment amid Trump's global disruptions, challenging its sovereignty and international role.
April 26, 2025

Posted to Substack. Please Subscribe.

As people get older and experience many elections, those elections often start to blend together into a blur—especially when it comes to minority governments. It’s one thing to remember the leaders from one election to the next; it’s quite another to keep track of the gains and losses of seats among the four main parties. Add in the key issues of each campaign, and it quickly becomes confusing for anyone who believes the components of campaigning truly matter.

For me, as well as for political enthusiasts and historians, the details of elections are crucial. Campaigns in Canada tend to follow a familiar pattern. They start with the issuing of writs, followed by polls, gaffes, the dropping of candidates, debates, advance polls, the unveiling of costed platforms, endorsements, and the last minute frenzy leading up to election day.

In olden days, politicians would actually show up for editorial board meetings and answer questions with thoughtful answers. Here, Bob Rae, interim leader of the federal Liberal Party before editors at the Hamilton Spectator. Often, I would go to sketch the visitors and listen in on the Q&A. This is long a thing on the past.

These elements have remained consistent in federal elections throughout my career as a political cartoonist. However, what has changed significantly is how media shapes and shares information about candidates and issues. Social media has lessened the need for political groups to communicate through traditional media. In recent elections, I’ve noticed that many local candidates have stopped responding to basic policy questions from newspapers. Many have also not made themselves available for interviews or editorial board meetings. Politicians, like Mr. Poilievre, have limited the number of questions asked during scrums and restricted media access to their campaign buses and planes.

Before anyone brushes this off with a “cry me a river, media dude” attitude, I ask how it helps the public when local party representatives skip all-candidates debates. In my riding of Hamilton Centre, only one candidate showed up to face the sitting NDP MP, Matthew Green, in a televised debate. Ironically, the candidate who attended was from the low-polling Green Party, resulting in a Green vs. Green comedy scenario. This turned into a trivial exercise rather than a meaningful discussion that should have included candidates from the two parties most likely to influence the next session of Parliament. What happened to the days when candidates would knock on doors to meet voters? It seems that the people we elect have either become too important to be accountable to their constituents or have become so trained to stick to party lines that they can’t engage in local conversations.

There are security issues that may prevent candidates from freely interacting with the public and canvassing in neighbourhoods as they used to. We may need to raise awareness that harassment of public figures, as we’ve seen recently, should not be tolerated.

The beauty of editorial cartoons is that they capture feelings and ideas that vanish as soon as the votes are counted and the election dust settles. Will anyone remember who Paul Chiang was, that Neil Young endorsed Mark Carney, or why the Greens weren’t included in the debates? Probably not. Did the Niqab ban influence the 2015 election? What about the Blackface scandal in 2019 or the vaccine mandates in 2021? I would argue that they certainly did.

Looking ahead to 2025, it’s a given that Donald Trump has played a giant role in this election, and this is reflected in the editorial cartoons I create. Other themes in my work that will hold relevance in the days to months ahead include Preston Manning’s fears about Western separation, Doug Ford’s comments on Pierre Poilievre, and Canada’s passive approach to bolstering its defence. For the record, I think Jagmeet Singh’s tenure as NDP leader is on the cusp of coming to its end.

Together, editorial cartoons tell a story that written articles cannot replicate. With all due respect to my colleagues who write, this is why editorial cartoons matter—they provide insights that extend beyond mere words.

In this election, I have openly rejected Pierre Poilievre. He has shown himself to be hostile toward mainstream journalism, often criticizing reporters in a manner reminiscent of Donald Trump. He doesn’t offer solutions for struggling legacy media outlets that are being overwhelmed by foreign media companies. It’s challenging to view any politician fairly when they dismiss the role of journalism in a democracy.

As for the future of editorial cartoons, the platforms we once relied on—mainly print media—are disappearing. However, satire has existed for longer than the printing press, and it should continue. I strive to remain relevant in my newspaper’s digital space by animating my editorial cartoons. While static cartoons are appreciated by my generation and older audiences, younger viewers seek movement, and I work on that every day.

Past Election Galleries

2015 Federal Election
2015 Federal Election
2019 Federal Election
2019 Federal Election
2021 Federal Election
2021 Federal Election

 

Posted in: Uncategorized Tagged: 2025 election, 2025-09, Canada, election, Jagmeet Singh, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, Yves-François Blanchet

Our National Nightmare Nears its End

April 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Saturday April 26, 2025 | Newsletter 29

As we wrap up the 2025 federal election campaign, Canada is finally ready to fill the six-month void where leadership should have been. It all kicked off on the U.S. election day when voters decided to hand the keys back to a criminal, sending Trudeau’s already shaky government into a tailspin. In a desperate attempt to win back support, Trudeau’s team rolled out expensive “tax relief” schemes that even his Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland couldn’t back. The resulting fallout had Trudeau wheeling through the holiday season with a disastrous budget tied to the roof of his metaphorical clown car, which predictably crashed on January 6, 2025, when he finally called it quits.

Even after resigning, Trudeau hung around a little longer while Parliament stayed shut and Trump threw his usual tantrums—with tariffs and insults aimed right at Canada. Meanwhile, the Liberals scrambled to find a new leader, while provincial Premiers did their best impression of keeping things together. Enter Mark Carney, the guy with the impressive resume and the task of steering Canada back on track. But first, he has to survive the federal election. Time to brush off the distractions, and the disruption of Timbit Trump and get down to business.

With the April 28, 2025, election looming, this week has been all about setting the stage. The Liberals have a slight lead in the polls, while the other parties are busy trying to make their pitch. Here’s a look at what’s been going down this week.

Monday April 21, 2025
Re-run of the week – July 30, 2022: “Checking Off Apologies”
The week began with the somber news of Pope Francis’s death, prompting reflections on leadership and reconciliation in Canada. His legacy of advocating for Indigenous rights resonates as the nation grapples with its own political challenges in the lead-up to the election. Visit the Pope Francis Retrospective Gallery.

As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.

Tuesday April 22, 2025
“Campaign Promises vs. Reality”  As the candidates ramped up their campaigns with promises of tax cuts, the underlying reality of potential spending cuts raises eyebrows. Voters are left questioning the sincerity of these commitments, emphasizing the need for transparency as the election approaches.
YouTube: Austerity is Coming

Pierre Poilievre sets a 2% GDP defence target by 2030, aligning with Mark Carney's similar commitment to enhance Canada's military spending.

Wednesday April 23, 2025
“NATO Commitments Under Scrutiny”  Trump, Rubio, and Poilievre are shown grappling with NATO’s 2% GDP spending target. Poilievre’s past criticism of Liberal defence spending now rings hollow, as his own commitments mirror theirs. With global tensions rising, voters are left wondering if these targets will lead to meaningful action on national security. Other partners are committing to 3 to 4% as a consensus forms for Canada to up our commitment to a new improved level of defence laggard.
Youtube: PPs 2% Promise

As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh's leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party's need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.

Thursday April 24, 2025
“The NDP’s Dilemma”  Jagmeet Singh faces a critical moment as the NDP’s poll numbers dwindle. While he has achieved some policy victories, the party needs a dramatic turnaround to regain traction. Time is running out for Singh to solidify his leadership and vision for the NDP. With the election race turning into a two party competition the third, forth, fifth and even sixth parties are veering on complete irrelevance.
Youtube: NDP Prop  Shop

As Canada's election campaign nears its end, Trump's rhetoric and policies become pivotal in shaping voter perceptions of leaders Pierre Poilievre and Mark Carney.

Friday April 25, 2025
“Trump’s Shadow in Canadian Politics”  Canadians are pondering which candidate most mirrors Trump, as if the answer isn’t glaringly obvious. The question pops up frequently in hyper-partisan conservative posts and the comment sections of mainstream op-eds. A popular jab suggests, “Carney is Trump’s guy because he’s weak.” Meanwhile, in more grounded circles, Pierre Poilievre’s style and tactics have drawn comparisons to Trump, sparking concerns about how this might sway voter sentiment in the upcoming election.
You Tube: Pre-Electlion Day Reflection

Canada's upcoming election becomes a historic moment amid Trump's global disruptions, challenging its sovereignty and international role.

Saturday April 26, 2025

“Elephant in the Election Room”  Featuring a beaver holding a “Vote 2025” sign, staring down a Trump caricature. This imagery illustrates the chaotic political atmosphere and the pervasive influence of Trump’s persona over Canadian politics. Voters must navigate their choices carefully as they consider the implications of such influences.
YouTube: The 2025 Federal Election Elephant

This week has really put the spotlight on the tangled web of this election, from pondering leadership to the messy business of defense spending and party politics. As April 28 draws near, Canadians are going to have to think carefully about their choices, since each one could have a big impact on the nation’s future. After the election, don’t be surprised if a leader or two—or maybe even three—decide to exit stage left, especially if one of the top parties (looking at you, Liberals) grabs a majority. If Canadians wake up to a solid mandate on Tuesday (hint: Carney), we might see some chit-chat between the White House and Ottawa by the end of the week. Let’s toast to finally closing up the power vacuum in Canada and crossing our fingers for a government with a strong majority backing it.

April 21-26, 2025 Animated Feature

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

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

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Posted in: Substack Post Tagged: 2025-09, Canada, Donald Trump, election, Jagmeet Singh, Mark Carney, NATO, Pierre Poilievre, Pope Francis, spending cuts, Substack

Thursday April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Trump's rhetoric and policies loom over Canada's leaders' debate, influencing politics and personal decisions.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 17, 2025

The Shadow of Trump in Canada’s Leaders’ Debate

Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.

March 21, 2025

As the leaders of Canada’s major political parties prepare to take the stage for tonight’s crucial debate, the spectre of Donald Trump’s influence looms large. While domestic issues such as affordability, healthcare, and housing remain critical to Canadians, it is the external pressure from an increasingly autocratic U.S. president that has captured the national focus. Trump’s imposition of tariffs and withdrawal from multilateral agreements has not only strained Canada’s economy but also reshaped the global political landscape, leaving Canada in a precarious position.

The recent comments by White House Press Briefing Room spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, reiterating Trump’s desire to annex Canada as the 51st state, have only added fuel to the fire. What might seem like bluster or a strategic distraction has tangible effects on Canadian society and politics. This rhetoric, highlighted by Susan Delacourt’s column, underscores Trump’s metaphorical presence in the Canadian election, influencing both policy and public perception.

Opinion: The other leader at this week’s federal election debates: Donald Trump

 

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

February 22, 2025

The implications of Trump’s policies and rhetoric are far-reaching. Canadians are increasingly cashing out their U.S. vacation homes, driven by fears of economic penalties and a sense of unwelcome. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, the political uncertainty has altered shopping patterns and investment decisions, with many Canadians reconsidering their ties to the U.S. This shift is not merely economic but deeply personal, as Canadians grapple with the erosion of goodwill and trust with their southern neighbour.

Video: Trump believes Canadians would ‘benefit greatly’ from becoming 51st state, White House rep reiterates

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

February 20, 2025

Tonight’s debate offers a platform for leaders like Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre to articulate their visions for addressing this complex relationship. Carney’s economic expertise and diplomatic finesse will be tested as he seeks to reassure Canadians of their sovereignty and stability. Poilievre, known for his aggressive stance, will need to demonstrate his capability to handle Trump’s unpredictability while advocating for Canada’s interests.

The stakes are high. Trump’s rhetoric and actions have inserted themselves into the very fabric of Canadian politics, creating a sense of urgency and existential threat. The leaders must confront not only the immediate economic impacts but also the broader implications for Canada’s identity and autonomy.

Analysis: Canadians Are Cashing Out Their American Vacation Homes

September 9, 2021

As Canadians tune in to the debate, they will be looking for leaders who can stand firm against external pressures while fostering a resilient and prosperous nation. Tonight’s discussion will be pivotal in shaping the narrative of Canada’s future, amid the challenges posed by a shifting global order and a neighbour whose policies and rhetoric demand serious consideration. The time for decisive leadership is now, and Canadians will be watching closely to see who can rise to the occasion.


Karoline Leavitt steps into the spotlight from a podium marked “The White House, Washington,” boldly proclaiming, “The President maintains his position that Canadians would benefit greatly by becoming the 51st state.” As Canadian leaders Mark Carney, Jagmeet Singh, Yves-Francois Blanchet, and Pierre Poilievre exchange worried glances, the scene becomes a satirical jab at U.S. influence on Canadian politics. With Trump’s policies already creating economic ripples and Leavitt’s reputation for stirring controversy, the debate feels more like a theatrical performance. Her knack for mixing up pronouns, historical events, and even dinosaurs adds a layer of comedic absurdity, leaving everyone wondering if the true spectacle is the debate or the delightful chaos of her statements.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 17, 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!

April 17, 2025 | Trump in the Debate  https://youtu.be/7YzWH2iEwYY

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, 51st state, annexation, Canada, debate, Donald Trump, Elbows up, election, Jagmeet Singh, Karoline Leavitt, knockout, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, Substack, tariffs, USA, Yves-François Blanchet

Saturday April 12, 2025

April 12, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 12, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star, April 14, 2025)

A Financial Superstar at the Right Time and Place in Canada’s Election

Canada, Pierre Poilievre, Donald Trump, Mark Carney, Liberation Day, tariffs, Canada, auto, trade, economy, leadership, "maple MAGA", politics, strategy, allegations, election

April 2, 2025

As Canada’s federal election progresses, Liberal leader Mark Carney emerges as a financial superstar whose impressive credentials position him as the leader Canada needs during these uncertain times. With a career that includes serving as the Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney brings unparalleled economic expertise to a campaign dominated by concerns over international trade tensions and a rapidly evolving global economy.

Carney’s ability to navigate complex economic landscapes has made him a reassuring figure for Canadians anxious about the volatility stemming from Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and broader economic shifts. His leadership is synonymous with stability and competence, qualities that resonate deeply with voters seeking assurance in turbulent times.

Opinion: Carney’s Telling Jokes: Ford, Smith, and the Federal Race

Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.

March 21, 2025

Carney’s dual role as both the Liberal leader and Prime Minister provides a unique advantage during the campaign. He has adeptly worn both hats, using the campaign period to work the hustings as a party leader while strategically stepping back into his role as Prime Minister. This dual approach allows him to maintain a presence on the ground, engaging with voters, while also returning to Ottawa for essential meetings with Premiers, strategizing governance, and addressing the latest antics from a hostile and unpredictable Trump administration. Some of these actions are necessary for governance, while others are performative, showcasing to voters a Prime Minister who is deftly and steadily manning the tiller.

Opinion: Women have a problem with Pierre Poilievre. Men have a problem with Liberals

Canada must reconsider its reliance on the U.S. for defence as geopolitical tensions and procurement challenges prompt a strategic reassessment.

March 20, 2025

Yet, as the election unfolds, Carney faces the challenge of addressing domestic issues like rising living costs, housing shortages, and regional disparities—issues that may require difficult decisions and potentially unpopular austerity measures post-election.

Furthermore, Carney must contend with a gender gap that is shaping the election’s dynamics. The recent analysis by Allan Gregg highlights a significant divide, with middle-aged men, often seen as “alpha males,” showing strong support for Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives. These men, typically drawn to assertive political figures, present a hurdle for Carney, who must find ways to appeal to this demographic without alienating his broader base.

The next 20 days are critical for Carney to sustain the level of confidence voters have placed in him. The campaign trail is fraught with potential pitfalls, including media critiques about his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister, the threat of dirty campaigning by adversaries, and the pervasive influence of misinformation on social media.

Moreover, Carney faces the test of upcoming debates, where his political acumen will be on display against seasoned opponents. These debates offer a platform for Carney to articulate a clear vision for Canada’s future, demonstrating his ability to translate his financial expertise into effective political leadership.

opinion: Mark Carney should take more care with the caretaker convention

Mark Carney faces the dual challenge of overcoming domestic political narratives and external economic threats as he becomes Canada's Prime Minister.

March 14, 2025

Carney’s task is to reassure Canadians that his leadership extends beyond economic theory to encompass the everyday challenges they face. He must balance the immediate need for economic stability with a long-term vision for addressing domestic issues, proving that he is not only the leader for today’s crises but also for the challenges of tomorrow.

As the election continues, the question remains: Can Mark Carney leverage his financial superstar status and dual roles to build a comprehensive platform that resonates with Canadians across all walks of life? The answer will determine whether he can secure a mandate to lead Canada through its current challenges and into a stable future.


Midway Mark Carney

While conspiracy theories aren’t exclusive to any one political group, it’s hard to ignore how often they seem to emerge from the right, particularly among some Conservative circles. These theories often stand in stark contrast to well-established scientific facts. Whether it’s questioning the effectiveness of vaccines, which have saved countless lives, or denying the overwhelming evidence of climate change, the impact of such misinformation is troubling. We see the consequences in increasingly severe weather patterns, from storms to wildfires.

This week, a new form of skepticism emerged among Conservative supporters of Pierre Poilievre, who began questioning the validity of polls that consistently show the Liberals leading by several points. In particular, Mark Carney holds a substantial lead over Poilievre. The CBC’s aggregated poll data, updated daily, presents a clear picture of voter preferences, and it’s not rocket science to understand the trends.

Such disregard for factual data echoes the sentiments expressed by Trump in the U.S., where claims of a “rigged” system only surface when the results are unfavourable. This rhetoric now seems to be influencing Poilievre’s movement, drawing parallels to a “flat earth” mindset that denies the reality of polls and, by extension, questions the integrity of the electoral process itself. It’s quite telling when a political leader resorts to emphasizing crowd sizes as a definitive measure of success. Yet Canadians keep being told by Conservatives that there is no alignment to the Trump form of conservatism.

Midway Mark Carney | April 12, 2025:https://youtu.be/-ygxpymPGZ8

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, alpha males, Canada, challenges, debates, domestic, Economy, election, expertise, International, Jagmeet Singh, leadership, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, polls, Substack, tariffs, Trade, voters, Yves-François Blanchet

Thursday March 27, 2025

March 27, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The NDP faces a pivotal election, struggling for relevance as Jagmeet Singh seeks to distinguish the party amid challenges and historical achievements.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 27, 2025

Jagmeet Singh’s Leadership and the Fight for Relevance

Raising concern about Trudeau's governance due to issues like ArriveCAN mismanagement, CERB problems, and potential pitfalls of rushed decisions for political support, such as quick deals on Pharmacare and Dental care.

February 29, 2024

As the 2025 federal election approaches, the New Democratic Party (NDP) finds itself at a critical juncture, reminiscent of its influential role in the 1960s under Lester Pearson’s government. Back then, the NDP, originally the Cooperative Commonwealth Federation (CCF), championed transformative policies like universal healthcare and the Canada Pension Plan, leaving an indelible mark on Canada’s social fabric. Fast forward to today, the NDP under Jagmeet Singh has played a pivotal role in supporting the Liberal government, contributing to significant policy achievements such as expanded dental care, pharmacare, and child care. Yet, unlike the past, these legislative victories have not translated into increased voter support, leaving the party teetering on the edge of irrelevance.

The Liberal-NDP coalition in Canada is teetering due to their growing dispute over pharmacare, highlighting the inherent instability of coalition governments shaped by the parties' distinct priorities.

October 17, 2023

Jagmeet Singh, a charismatic and seasoned leader, has steered the NDP through turbulent political waters since 2017. His staunch advocacy for ordinary Canadians, backed by endorsements from major unions, underscores his dedication to progressive values. However, Singh’s alignment with the Liberal government, while strategic, has blurred the NDP’s distinct identity. In the eyes of many voters, the party’s role as a key influencer has been overshadowed by the Liberals’ spotlight, leading to a perception that the NDP is merely a supporting player in a broader political drama.

News: Singh says NDP faces ‘massive challenges’ as voters look to Liberals, Conservatives to battle Trump

March 23, 2022

The current political climate, dominated by concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and sovereignty threats, has shifted voter priorities. Canadians are looking for strong leaders who can navigate these international challenges, resulting in a two-way race between the Liberals and Conservatives. Singh’s commitment to social justice and economic equality, though unwavering, must now contend with the reality of strategic voting and a media landscape that often sidelines smaller parties.

Critics argue that Singh’s leadership, marked by broken promises and perceived ineffectiveness, has led the NDP down a path of diminishing returns. Former leader Thomas Mulcair’s comments, suggesting that the NDP is an afterthought in this high-stakes election, echo a broader sentiment of skepticism. The party’s polling numbers, hovering near single digits, paint a grim picture of its electoral prospects and raise questions about its future viability.

News: Behind in the polls, NDP’s Singh says he’s not going to back down

October 23, 2019

Singh’s challenge is to reinvigorate the NDP’s narrative and demonstrate its relevance in today’s complex political arena. He must effectively communicate how the party’s policies address the pressing issues facing Canadians, from affordability to labor rights, while distinguishing the NDP from its Liberal counterparts. This task is crucial not only for the party’s survival but also for Singh’s leadership, which hangs in the balance as election day looms.

November 7, 2019

As the NDP stands at this crossroads, it must draw on its legacy of progressive change, including its past contributions to the Canada Pension Plan, and adapt to the evolving needs of its constituents. Whether Jagmeet Singh can lead this charge and secure a meaningful place for the NDP in Canada’s political future remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that without a compelling vision and renewed voter engagement, the NDP risks fading into irrelevance, leaving Singh’s leadership in jeopardy after April 28.


Conjoined leaders part and present

As we caravan through the current political landscape, it’s clear that both the NDP and the Conservative Party face significant challenges in addressing the pressing issues of our time, rendering them unelectable in the eyes of many. Despite the NDP’s role in influencing policy during the Trudeau years, historical patterns reveal a persistent struggle to convert this influence into electoral success. The party’s adherence to outdated pacifist views from the 1970s, especially at a time when rapid military reinforcement is crucial, leaves much to be desired.

On the other hand, the Conservative Party’s reluctance to fully embrace climate change initiatives and uphold Canada’s commitments to the Paris Accord is equally concerning. As a huge nation with vast natural resources and significant international responsibilities, Canada cannot afford to lag in either environmental stewardship or national security.

The inability of these major parties to adapt to the evolving realities of national and global priorities highlights a need for fresh voices and innovative ideas in the political arena. This situation presents an opportunity for emerging parties or independent candidates willing to address these gaps with pragmatic solutions. It also calls on voters and advocates to push for transformative changes within existing party structures, demanding policies that reflect the needs and values of Canadians today.

In the end, true leadership will come from those who can effectively balance the demands of security, environmental responsibility, and international collaboration, showing a readiness to lead Canada into a sustainable and secure future.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack


 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-06, Canada, challenges, conjoined, conservatives, dental care, election, history, Jagmeet Singh, Justin Trudeau, leadership, Liberals, NDP, pharmacare policy, relevance, skiing, Substack, support, Union, voter
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