Joe Biden – mackaycartoons

Tuesday January 21, 2025

January 21, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

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

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

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Tuesday December 31, 2024

December 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 31, 2024

2024 Year In Review

The year 2024 will be remembered as a time of seismic shifts, stirring triumphs, and somber farewells. Canada and the United States were no strangers to tumult and transformation as they navigated an unrelenting tide of political, economic, and cultural change.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Canada

In Canada, political gridlock and public dissatisfaction loomed large. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced sagging poll numbers, with voters increasingly frustrated by the affordability crisis and the government’s handling of homelessness and opioid addiction. The Bank of Canada’s vacillation on interest rates did little to inspire confidence, as Canadians grappled with rising living costs. Trudeau’s Liberal government was further destabilized by the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, sparking speculation that Mark Carney might step into the role of Finance Minister to steady the ship. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre surged in popularity with his populist promise to “Axe the Tax” on carbon, galvanizing his base as the nation braced for the possibility of a federal election. Jagmeet Singh’s NDP also remained a vocal advocate for addressing the homelessness crisis, though with limited sway in the gridlocked Parliament.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Ontario

In provincial news, Doug Ford’s government in Ontario continued to stir controversy, from banning cell phones in schools to prioritizing a spa at Ontario Place over environmental and community concerns. His ban on new bike lanes raised eyebrows and underscored his contentious approach to urban planning. Natural disasters compounded the nation’s woes, with Alberta and British Columbia ravaged by wildfires and catastrophic flooding, and Hurricane Beryl leaving a trail of destruction in Atlantic Canada. The Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster in Baltimore added another tragic chapter to the year’s challenges. Amid these struggles, Canadians found moments of unity and pride. Swimmer Summer McIntosh shone at the Paris Olympics, earning accolades for her record-breaking performances and bringing a glimmer of hope to a weary nation after the drone spying scandal that plagued the women’s soccer team. The Canadian men’s Olympic relay team delivered a stunning gold medal victory, reaffirming Canada’s athletic prowess on the world stage. Taylor Swift’s blockbuster Eras Tour concerts in Toronto and Vancouver not only dazzled fans but also injected millions into local economies. Meanwhile, the LCBO and Canada Post strikes further tested Canadians’ patience, highlighting labour issues in critical sectors.

News: 2024: Year in Review

Graeme Gallery 2024: Trump

In the United States, the political landscape was dominated by the dramatic return of Donald Trump, whose re-election campaign survived legal woes and even an assassination attempt. His audacious proposals, including imposing 25% tariffs and floating the idea of a 51st state, polarized the nation. Figures like J.D. Vance and Matt Gaetz played pivotal roles in rallying support for Trump, while Kash Patel emerged as a key confidant during the campaign sealing the deal for a controversial appointment to FBI director. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy faltered, overshadowed by the waning presence of President Joe Biden, whose poignant farewell address included a call for unity and resilience. As the year closed, the transition period buzzed with speculation, fuelled by Trump’s unconventional nomination suggestions, including Pete Hegseth and Elon Musk, whose political influence grew exponentially. RFK Jr. also made headlines with his independent candidacy, challenging the traditional two-party dominance.

What a headline!

Globally, the year was marked by ongoing conflict and pivotal leadership changes. The war in Ukraine entered its 1,000th day, with President Zelenskyy signalling readiness for peace talks, even as Vladimir Putin remained steadfast in his ambitions. In the Middle East, the war between Israel and Gaza expanded, pulling in Iran and Hezbollah, while the Assad regime in Syria finally crumbled. Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership in Israel was both a rallying point and a subject of intense global scrutiny. Sudan’s internal strife and Haiti’s descent into lawlessness further underscored a world in turmoil. In Europe, Keir Starmer’s election as UK Prime Minister signalled a shift in British politics, and France faced its own critical elections, reshaping its political landscape, while in Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the nation’s first female president. The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris provided a poignant symbol of resilience amidst the chaos.

The world also bid farewell to towering figures. Canada mourned the loss of Brian Mulroney and Murray Sinclair, while the U.S. grieved for Jimmy Carter. The arts lost luminaries such as Maggie Smith, Alice Munro, James Earl Jones, and Quincy Jones, leaving behind legacies that will endure for generations.

News: Year in review: Notable people who died in 2024

Among the more unusual figures to capture the public’s imagination was Luigi Mangione, a notorious criminal convicted of killing a private health executive. Despite his heinous crime, Mangione garnered a bizarre social media cult following, with supporters romanticizing his actions as a misguided rebellion against systemic injustices in healthcare.

Amid these heavy moments, there were sparks of joy and cultural milestones. Glen Powell and Anna Sawai captivated audiences with standout performances, while athletes like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles rewrote the history books. Canada celebrated its own cultural moments with the continued rise of emerging artists and a significant presence in global cinema, spearheaded by the Toronto International Film Festival’s record-breaking attendance. Breakout musical acts like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter gave the world its soundtrack, and viral moments like the “Dancing with the Stars” leg lift brought levity to the digital age. The cinematic triumph of “Oppenheimer,” crowned with multiple Oscars, reminded audiences of the enduring power of storytelling.

1997: The year that was

As 2025 dawns, the world holds its breath. Canada may be on the cusp of a federal election, with Pierre Poilievre poised to challenge Trudeau’s grip on power. In the U.S., Trump’s second term could see dramatic shifts in domestic and international policy, from sweeping trade changes to potential statehood ambitions. Figures like Tim Walz are expected to play a crucial role in mediating partisan divides, while AI and space exploration may see further breakthroughs with Musk’s continued investments. Global conflicts could de-escalate—or intensify—depending on fragile negotiations in Ukraine and the Middle East. The rise of AI, which integrated seamlessly into daily life in 2024, might accelerate in unexpected ways, reshaping industries and personal lives alike.

Climate scientists are predicting another year of extreme weather, but advances in renewable energy and sustainability may offer glimmers of hope. And who knows? With Elon Musk’s influence continuing to grow, perhaps Mars colonization will take its first tangible steps in 2025.

The year ahead promises to be as unpredictable as ever, with moments of brilliance and hardship intertwined. If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that resilience and innovation remain humanity’s most powerful tools. Here’s to the adventures—and challenges—that 2025 will bring.

As I put the finishing touches on my year-end illustration for the Hamilton Spectator, I find myself reflecting on what 2024 has brought us. It’s a great honour to have the A1 assignment for the final edition, especially after 28 years as an editorial cartoonist. However, I can’t help but feel a bittersweet twinge, given the uncertain future of print media.

This year has been marked by political upheaval, economic struggles, and cultural milestones that remind us just how unpredictable our times can be. In Canada, we witnessed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grappling with rising living costs and public frustration, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made waves with his populist promises. Doug Ford’s controversial decisions in Ontario added to the mix, sparking debates on everything from urban planning to environmental concerns.

On the other side of the border, Donald Trump’s dramatic return to the political stage kept everyone on their toes, overshadowing Joe Biden and raising questions about the future of American politics. Meanwhile, global crises continued to unfold, leaving many of us feeling a mix of concern and urgency.

But amidst all the chaos, there were moments of unity and pride. Athletes like Summer McIntosh and events like Taylor Swift’s concerts brought joy and a sense of hope to a weary nation. It’s these glimmers of light that I tried to capture in my illustration, weaving in Easter eggs and references for those who still cherish the print version of the newspaper.

As we look ahead to 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Will Canada face a federal election? How will Trump’s second term unfold?

While the future feels uncertain, one thing is clear: resilience and creativity will be our guiding lights. Here’s to embracing the adventures and challenges that the new year will undoubtedly bring!

Wishing you all a wonderful start to 2025!

Enjoy the December 31, 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

Saturday November 23, 2024

November 23, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday November 23, 2024

Trudeau’s GST Relief Is a Desperate Attempt to Avoid a Liberal Meltdown

November 6, 2024

Justin Trudeau’s GST rebate announcement is less about addressing the real issues facing Canadians and more about clinging to power in the face of plummeting poll numbers. Like the Democrats’ arrogance in the U.S., the Liberals’ reliance on temporary handouts instead of meaningful reforms underscores a dangerous detachment from the economic and political realities Canadians face every day.

As the cost of living soars and productivity stagnates, Canadians need bold, structural changes to revive economic growth—not more short-term relief designed to buy votes. The Liberals’ redistributive policies fail to tackle the root causes of economic discontent, such as regulatory barriers, unaffordable housing, and declining investment. Instead, they mimic the Democrats’ misguided overconfidence that voters would overlook their struggles in favour of ideological consistency.

Globe Editorial: Justin Trudeau’s sales-tax holiday from reality

May 31, 2024

This arrogance isn’t new. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s infamous Disney+ anecdote—offering to cut a streaming subscription as advice for managing inflation—remains a glaring example of the government’s tone-deafness. Middle-income Canadians don’t need patronizing soundbites; they need a government that understands their hardships. Instead, the GST rebate feels like a weak attempt to placate these frustrations without delivering real solutions.

Much like the Democrats, the Liberals are doubling down on their policies despite clear signs that voters want change. Whether it’s emissions caps on the energy sector or a refusal to ease the regulatory burdens on businesses, the government’s approach has been marked by magical thinking. Trudeau and his advisors act as though they know better than voters, even as poll after poll signals mounting dissatisfaction.

Opinion: Trudeau Liberals stick to same path Democrats took to defeat

September 4, 2024

The parallels with the Democrats’ recent defeat are striking. In both cases, leaders refused to adapt, surrounded themselves with loyalists who reinforced their worldview, and underestimated the depth of public discontent. Trudeau, like Biden, like Kamala Harris, has shown a resistance to change that could spell disaster for his party.

If the Liberals want to avoid the same fate, they must pivot now. Canadians need economic policies that promote growth, reduce inequality, and restore trust in the government’s ability to manage the country. Temporary handouts won’t cut it. Listening to voters and implementing long-term solutions are the only ways to bridge the growing disconnect between the Liberals and the people they claim to serve.

But they should have been acting on this years ago, and in all likelihood, Justin Trudeau and his government are way past their expiry date.

So, let’s dive into this so-called “Tax Holiday” that Justin Trudeau and Chrystia Freeland have decided to gift us as if it’s an early Christmas present. It’s a temporary GST relief and rebate scheme—wrapped up nicely with a bow, no less! But let’s be real for a moment: while they’re touting this as a win for everyday Canadians, it feels more like a $6.3 billion boondoggle than a genuine solution.

Now, sure, they might say, “We’ve listened and learned. We’ve got your backs, Canada!” But let’s face it, they didn’t actually say that. Instead, it seems this move is more about desperation than any heartfelt concern for taxpayers. Just look at the recent Nov 5 election results, where their progressive pals in the U.S. took a serious beating. It’s no wonder they’re scrambling to regain public favour.

And so, my career record breaking string of editorial cartoons related to the U.S. election now numbers 17. I’m hoping the 9 day vacation I have just begun will break that record by the time I’m back.

Anyway…

Trudeau’s GST relief plan is like a band-aid on a much larger problem. Sure, it might be good political strategy, but it’s also reckless public policy. Instead of providing real, lasting solutions, the government is relying on temporary handouts that do little to actually address the root issues plaguing Canadians: skyrocketing costs of living, declining productivity, and investment barriers.

If the Liberals continue down this path, they risk facing a fate similar to that of the Democrats. Without a shift toward meaningful reforms, they could find themselves in a deeper hole come the next election. So, while this tax relief may feel nice in the short term, let’s not forget it’s just a quick fix in a much bigger, and more complicated, puzzle.

Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. Subscriptions will always be free – as long as my position remains as a staff editorial cartoonist. Thanks.

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

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Wednesday November 20, 2024

November 20, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 20, 2024

The 1,000th Day of Ukraine’s War Marks a Critical Juncture for Global Democracy

October 26, 2024

As Ukraine endures the 1,000th day since Vladimir Putin’s invasion, the world watches an increasingly perilous intersection of geopolitics and human suffering. With less than 100 days before Donald Trump is inaugurated as U.S. president, the conflict is entering what could be its most decisive—and dangerous—phase. The stakes are not just for Ukraine, but for the broader values of democracy and collective security that have underpinned global stability since World War II.

President Joe Biden’s reported authorization for Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike within Russia reflects an understanding of the narrowing window for action. These strikes, targeting critical Russian military infrastructure, are a last-ditch effort to shift the balance on the battlefield before negotiations likely begin under a Trump administration. Critics, particularly from Trump’s MAGA-aligned faction, decry this as reckless escalation, accusing Biden of provoking “World War Three” to complicate Trump’s peace promises.

News: Biden’s move on missiles for Ukraine angers Trump allies

September 28, 2024

While these criticisms are pointed, Biden’s strategy has merit. The war has dragged on as a brutal stalemate, with Ukrainian civilians bearing the brunt of Putin’s relentless aggression. Long-range strikes serve not only as a tactical necessity but as a psychological one, signalling that Russia’s aggression will no longer go unanswered on its own soil. As former U.S. envoy Kurt Volker noted, these weapons enable Ukraine to target Russian airfields and supply lines once considered untouchable sanctuaries.

However, Biden’s gamble unfolds under the shadow of Trump’s impending presidency. Trump’s rhetoric about NATO, combined with promises to “end the war in 24 hours,” fuels fears of a deal skewed in Russia’s favour. Trump’s disdain for multilateral alliances and his history of conciliatory remarks toward Putin lend credence to worries that Ukraine may be coerced into territorial concessions. The MAGA movement’s critiques of Biden’s decision highlight these concerns, framing continued support for Ukraine as “America last” while echoing Putin’s own talking points about Western overreach.

June 19, 2024

This potential retreat from U.S. leadership carries risks far beyond Ukraine. Europe, already grappling with economic fallout from the war, may find itself on the frontlines of a resurgent Russian imperialism. As reader feedback noted, Putin’s goals extend beyond Ukraine, aiming to reestablish Soviet-era influence across Eastern Europe. A U.S. withdrawal from its post-WWII role as democracy’s ultimate guarantor would embolden autocrats worldwide.

News: Russia’s Putin issues warning to United States with revised nuclear doctrine

Putin’s recent revision of Russia’s nuclear doctrine—lowering the threshold for deployment—adds a chilling dimension to this moment. By framing Ukraine’s U.S.-enabled strikes as a NATO-provoked attack, Russia has signalled its willingness to escalate dramatically. Though some analysts dismiss these threats as bluster, the risks of miscalculation in such a charged environment cannot be ignored.

January 4, 2023

Biden’s decision to empower Ukraine with long-range capabilities is not without peril, but it reflects a necessary recognition of what is at stake. This is not merely a war between two nations but a battle for the principles of sovereignty and self-determination. Allowing Ukraine to bring the fight to Russian territory may be the leverage needed to force Putin to the negotiating table under terms that preserve Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the international order.

Trump’s vow to end the war within 24 hours underscores the urgency of this moment but raises uncomfortable questions. Peace, hastily brokered, risks becoming appeasement. Any settlement that rewards Russian aggression would validate not just Putin’s tactics but those of aspiring autocrats worldwide. As one commenter aptly stated, “War is not a one-way street”—Ukraine has the right to defend itself and demand accountability from its aggressor.

January 26, 2023

The next 100 days will test the resolve of democracies worldwide. Will they stand firm against tyranny, or will they retreat, ceding ground to a dictator whose ambitions extend beyond Ukraine? Biden’s decision, controversial as it is, offers a glimmer of hope that Ukraine will enter any negotiations from a position of strength, not surrender.

This is a defining moment not just for Ukraine but for the global order. The decisions made now will reverberate far beyond the battlefields of Eastern Europe, shaping the world’s trajectory for years to come. The stakes demand courage, clarity, and a steadfast commitment to the principles that have long been the foundation of international peace.

A thousand days into Russia’s brutal war on Ukraine, we’re standing at a precarious crossroads. With Joe Biden in his final weeks in office, he’s rolled the dice by giving Ukraine the green light to hit military targets inside Russia with U.S.-made missiles. It’s a bold move, one that could shake up the battlefield and give Ukraine a stronger position heading into negotiations—but not everyone sees it that way. Trump’s allies are calling it reckless, and there’s fear that come January, Trump might undo all of this in favour of a deal that flatters Putin at Ukraine’s expense.

Meanwhile, Putin has responded by doubling down on nuclear brinkmanship, rewriting his rules to lower the bar for launching nukes. He’s playing up the victim card, all while he continues to rain destruction on Ukrainian cities. It’s the ultimate hypocrisy: a bully whining about a punch back after almost three years of unprovoked aggression. But as history shows, appeasing bullies like Putin never works, and his admirer-in-chief, Trump, doesn’t inspire confidence in his promises to “end the war.”

The next 100 days aren’t just about Ukraine—they’re about the soul of the democratic world (I know, very Biden sounding, which is fitting giving the intent of his successor.) If Ukraine’s resistance is bargained away, it sends a chilling message to every authoritarian dreaming of territorial conquest. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the world is watching nervously to see how this all unfolds.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Thursday November 14, 2024

November 14, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday November 14, 2024

A Government of the (Most) Loyal, by the (Most) Loyal, for the (Most) Loyal

July 20, 2024

As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, his Cabinet appointments reflect a vision that deeply diverges from the traditions of U.S. governance and the peaceful transitions of power Americans have come to expect. Typically, the transition period is marked by a gracious, symbolically unifying gesture—a meeting at the White House where outgoing and incoming presidents signal continuity and respect for democratic processes. In 2020, Trump famously disrupted this tradition by refusing to meet with President-elect Joe Biden, a snub now underscored by incoming First Lady Melania Trump’s decision to skip the customary White House tour with Dr. Jill Biden. This refusal of symbolic unity is emblematic of Trump’s wider disregard for norms and appears to set the stage for an administration filled with loyalists, ideologues, and media personalities who may prioritize fealty over expertise.

News: Biden is about to have the meeting he’s been dreading with Trump

October 26, 2024

A closer look at Trump’s appointments reveals a Cabinet stacked with political loyalists, partisan firebrands, and billionaires. Notably, he has appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a proposed new “Department of Government Efficiency.” Musk, the world’s richest man and a vocal Trump supporter, has contributed millions to pro-Trump political action committees and has frequently used his social media platform to shape public opinion in ways favourable to Trump’s agenda.

His potential control over government efficiency measures raises questions about the motives behind regulatory and budget cuts and whether they would truly benefit the American public or serve the interests of corporate allies and ultra-wealthy backers like Musk.

Equally concerning is the appointment of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense. A Fox News personality more known for his television commentary than military leadership, Hegseth has stoked divisive narratives, dismissing military diversity programs as “woke” and pushing rhetoric that undercuts the inclusion and unity central to military morale. His stance that women should not serve in the military suggests he might roll back decades of progress in creating a military that reflects American society. Moreover, his support for conspiracy theories around the “Stop the Steal” movement raises questions about his ability to objectively defend democratic principles in his role as defence chief.

News: ‘Who the f–k is this guy?’: Defense world reacts to Trump’s surprise Pentagon pick

October 22, 2024

Adding to this is Trump’s proposed “warrior board,” an executive order that would replace the Pentagon’s existing promotion and review system with an ideologically driven panel of retired generals handpicked by Trump to judge “leadership qualities” among top officers. Retired Major General Paul Eaton of VoteVets has warned that this order would essentially create a “MAGA military,” compromising the apolitical tradition of the U.S. armed forces by ensuring loyalty to Trump rather than to the Constitution. This proposal follows Trump’s repeated complaints that he needs generals “like Hitler had,” raising fears that the Department of Defense may see an erosion of its independence if top officers are removed based on political conformity.

Trump’s choices for diplomatic roles also reveal a troubling blend of ideological rigidity and political favouritism. His anticipated appointment of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as U.S. Ambassador to Israel, for instance, signals a likely shift in U.S. foreign policy towards uncompromising support for Israeli expansionism. Huckabee has publicly opposed Palestinian statehood and encouraged Israel to annex West Bank territories. Such a position risks deepening the rift with allies who support a two-state solution, potentially alienating key international partners and compromising longstanding diplomatic strategies in the region.

Analysis: Trump rolls out his most MAGA picks for new White House term

February 11, 2021

The appointment of John Ratcliffe, a former intelligence official with a history of selectively declassifying intelligence for partisan advantage, as CIA Director, raises similar concerns. Ratcliffe’s prior tenure as Director of National Intelligence was marked by decisions that some felt jeopardized the agency’s nonpartisan reputation, such as his release of unverified information tied to Hillary Clinton during the Russia investigation. His return to intelligence could see further politicization, with critical security assessments potentially shaped by partisan agendas rather than objective analysis.

Perhaps most emblematic of the administration’s direction is Trump’s choice of Stephen Miller as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy. Miller, an architect of Trump’s hardline immigration policies, has been one of the most polarizing figures from Trump’s first term, pushing policies like family separation and strict asylum restrictions. His return signals a potential crackdown on immigration policy that would likely exacerbate tensions and fears among immigrant communities, while also creating strain between the federal government and localities seeking more balanced approaches to immigration.

January 12, 2021

Taken together, these appointments suggest a presidency with little regard for expertise or experience if it comes at the expense of loyalty. The appointments reflect a push for a government populated by those willing to execute Trump’s agenda uncritically—an agenda focused less on inclusive governance and more on dismantling institutional safeguards that maintain checks and balances. The peaceful transfer of power, a bedrock of American democracy, is not merely a procedural formality but a symbolic act that unites the country around shared principles. In 2020, Trump rejected this gesture. In 2024, his appointments appear set to challenge the very foundations of this tradition, reshaping the nation’s institutions to reflect not American democracy, but personal allegiance to one man.

A full week after the 2024 election, the roaring fire behind #46 and the incoming #47 at the Oval Office was hard to ignore. Donald Trump who left the place in flames on his way out in 2020, was back meeting with Joe Biden who, let’s face it, as one commentator said, looked like he’d rather be eating glass than doing the responsible thing. Defeated or lame duck, the presidential thing is to carry on the tradition of inviting the incoming leader, which every President had done for more than 2 centuries continued. Until of course, that one time when the incoming guy didn’t return the courtesy to the host 4 years ago. So, even a group of toddlers could point out who the bigger person was of the two?

This year, 44/47 behaved himself by not letting his mouth run off as photographers captured the moment.

Meanwhile, incoming Trump insignificant other Melania, the most inconsequential first lady ever, made herself even less significant by skipping the White House tour with Jill Biden, just in case you thought the Trump’s were really into unity. Spoiler alert: They weren’t. Apparently she won’t be hanging around the White House very much in years to come. I really don’t care, do you?

Could be that 46/47 may be attempting to start off statesman-like while letting family members carry out the snubs, slights, and give middle fingers to the masses of skeptics.

Donny Trump Jr. is the first nepo baby to the incoming monarch and threw out a doozy to Zelenskyy taunting the Ukrainian President about losing his allowance offered by the west for defending his country against the tyranny of Vladimir Putin. Donny must think loosing financial aid is worse than actually witnessing the horrors that the President of Ukraine has been dealing with.

Late breaking: Matt Gaetz has been nominated as Trump’s Attorney-General. At this point I’m wondering if Trump’s looney appointments are just designed to trigger saner people to lose their minds completely.

Now, as we look to #47’s earlier appointments, it’s clear that loyalty is the new currency. Forget about experience, competence, or even an understanding of basic governance. Trump’s Cabinet looks like it was assembled by a blindfolded Fox News producer after a weekend binge of conspiracy documentaries. Let’s start with the good ol’ “Department of Government Efficiency”—led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. Yes, that’s right: the richest man in the world is apparently going to hack away at bureaucracy. You can almost hear the ping of his latest conflict-of-interest-laden contract from here.

And then, there’s Pete Hegseth—defence secretary-in-waiting and self-proclaimed “warrior” for the MAGA cause. Apparently, having seven kids and tattoos somehow qualifies you to run the military. Never mind the fact that Hegseth thinks women shouldn’t be in combat roles and has a very, very specific idea of what constitutes a “woke general.” It’s almost like his qualifications were forged in a right-wing think tank, not on the battlefield.

Let’s not even get started on his ideas about NATO, Ukraine, or Taiwan—unless you’re a fan of global instability. And while his confirmation hearings may provide the slimmest line of protection from the total chaos ahead, let’s face it: With a Congress full of Trump loyalists, that’s like putting up a picket fence in front of a bulldozer.

So buckle up, folks. It’s only been 1 week since the world changed

– The Graeme Gallery

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