Justin Trudeau – Page 2 – mackaycartoons

Friday March 7, 2025

March 7, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 7, 2025

Canada’s Crossroads: Leadership Race to Tackle Trump

February 15, 2025

The political landscape in Canada has been dramatically reshaped by recent developments in U.S.-Canada relations, following Donald Trump’s re-election as President of the United States. The imposition of sweeping tariffs on Canadian exports, coupled with Trump’s aggressive rhetoric about annexing Canada, has created an atmosphere of economic warfare that threatens the sovereignty and stability of the nation.

As Canada grapples with external pressures, the domestic scene has been equally tumultuous. The resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has left a leadership void, which the Liberal Party is eager to fill. The leadership race, featuring key figures such as Mark Carney, Chrystia Freeland, Karina Gould, and Frank Baylis, has become not just a contest for party leadership but a critical decision point for Canada’s response to the Trump administration’s aggressive stance. The announcement of the new leader in just a few days, set for Sunday, March 9, 2025, will set the stage for the federal election, where Canadians will decide who is best suited to face Pierre Poilievre and lead the fight against Trump’s policies.

News: Canada’s ruling Liberals move on from Trudeau with Trump boost

January 16, 2025

Among the candidates, Mark Carney stands out with his extensive experience as a former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England. Carney’s candidacy brings a wealth of economic expertise and a clear vision for navigating the challenges posed by Trump’s policies. His emphasis on national unity and sovereignty resonates with Canadians seeking strong leadership to counter external threats. By advocating for the elimination of the divisive consumer carbon tax and focusing on internal trade opportunities, Carney aims to strengthen Canada’s domestic economy and bolster national identity.

In contrast, Chrystia Freeland’s strong association with Justin Trudeau has been both an asset and a liability in her political journey. As a key figure in Trudeau’s administration, Freeland has been instrumental in shaping Canada’s policies and international relationships. However, her close alignment with Trudeau has tethered her to the challenges faced by his government, making it difficult to distance herself from unpopular policies. Despite her efforts to highlight her achievements and leadership qualities, Freeland’s narrative often circles back to her tenure under Trudeau, which some view as a continuation of his legacy rather than a fresh start.

News: Five takeaways from Canada’s Liberal leadership debates

January 25, 2025

Karina Gould, on the other hand, has emerged as a compelling alternative, offering a fresh perspective and a promise of a new direction for the Liberal Party. As one of the younger candidates, Gould brings a dynamic approach to leadership, emphasizing modernization and innovation in policy-making. Her focus on social safety nets and realistic economic planning resonates with voters looking for progressive change without drastic cuts. Gould’s strategic positioning and relative distance from the Trudeau administration’s most contentious policies have put her in good stead for future leadership opportunities within the party.

Reader reactions to Carney’s candidacy reflect a mix of hope and skepticism. Some appreciate his experience and see him as the right leader for this moment, while others question his ability to overcome the legacy of the Trudeau administration. Despite these doubts, Carney’s entry into the race has narrowed the polling gap with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, suggesting a potential shift in voter sentiment.

February 20, 2025

A Carney win would signal a renewed focus on economic stability and sovereignty, with a leader who has both the financial acumen and diplomatic skills to steer Canada through the turbulence created by Trump’s administration. His emphasis on positive leadership and ending division could unify Canadians around a shared vision of resilience and independence.

News: ‘We will win’: Carney slams Trump, Poilievre and tariffs during Calgary campaign stop

December 20, 2024

As Canada faces the Trump menace, the outcome of the Liberal leadership race will be pivotal in shaping the nation’s future. With Carney at the helm, Canada could find itself better equipped to navigate the complexities of international relations and domestic challenges, ensuring that it remains a strong and sovereign nation on the global stage. Meanwhile, the emergence of figures like Karina Gould highlights the party’s capacity for renewal and adaptation, setting the stage for future leadership that embraces both experience and innovation. The upcoming federal election will provide Canadians the opportunity to choose who they believe is best equipped to lead the country against Pierre Poilievre and the challenges posed by Trump’s aggressive policies.

The Bridge to Canada’s Destiny

You’ve got to feel a bit sorry for whoever ends up leading the Liberal Party in a few days. All signs point to Mark Carney, the central banker of central bankers. He’s the kind of guy who’s respected not just here in Canada but over in the UK too, thanks to his time as the governor of the Bank of England.

But, oh boy, have the Conservatives been busy. They’ve been flooding the airwaves with ads painting Carney as some sort of satanic figure set to ruin Canada—classic scare tactics. Even got Stephen Harper involved to try and discredit him, which is odd since they got along just fine back when Carney was at the Bank of Canada and Harper was PM.

Pity any leader who has to deal with Pierre Poilievre’s straight out of the Trump nastiness playbook. And pity any Prime Minister who has to endure four long years (minus six weeks) of Donald Trump’s chaos and torment. But you know, Carney is cool, smart, and has that confident dad vibe—something Canada might have missed with Trudeau. Definitely a better choice than the petulant man-child Pierre Poilievre, especially when it comes to handling the babbling, disruptive toddler that is the current President of the United States.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Wednesday March 5, 2025

March 5, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

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

Fentanyl as a Flimsy Ruse – Unveiling the Real Motives Behind Trump’s Economic Gambit

Tuesday February 4, 2025

From a Canadian perspective, the recent decision by President Trump to impose steep 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, under the guise of addressing fentanyl trafficking, appears to be a thinly veiled pretext for what is essentially an economic war with America’s closest allies. The real motives seem to lie elsewhere, and the consequences of this strategy are likely to be far-reaching and detrimental, particularly for Canada.

News: Justin Trudeau slams Donald Trump’s ‘totally false’ justification for tariffs

The claim that these tariffs are necessary to combat fentanyl flows is tenuous at best. Data indicates that the majority of fentanyl entering the U.S. originates from other sources, such as China and Mexico, not Canada. This casts doubt on the validity of using fentanyl as a primary justification for such drastic economic measures against a long-standing ally.

February 2, 2025

Trump’s determination to impose tariffs, regardless of the economic damage they inflict, signals a broader agenda. The tariffs are poised to raise substantial revenue, potentially funding a hefty tax cut for the wealthiest Americans—a promise Trump has long been eager to fulfill. While this may serve the interests of a select few, it raises serious questions about whether it will genuinely improve the cost of living for everyday Americans or Canadians, who are caught in the crossfire.

The impact on consumers and industries cannot be overstated. As tariffs increase the cost of goods, from cars to everyday essentials like eggs, the financial burden will inevitably fall on households across both countries. The ripple effects will extend to industries that rely on cross-border trade, threatening jobs and destabilizing the very economic sectors that underpin our prosperity.

WSJ: Trump Takes the Dumbest Tariff Plunge

The Wall Street Journal has aptly criticized these measures, labeling them as some of the “dumbest tariffs” imposed in recent history. This sentiment echoes the concerns of economists and trade experts who warn of the profound negative consequences that such policies can unleash. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed it in a direct response to the President during a press conference with the statement, “Donald, This is a Very Dumb Thing To Do.”

January 31, 2025

or Canada, the interconnected nature of the North American auto sector, with its intricate cross-border supply chains, will face tremendous pressures as these tariffs take hold. Undoing the current processes and reliance built into this sector will not only take a long time to untangle but will also cost countless jobs across a wide range of industries. The complexity and integration developed over decades cannot simply be unraveled without severe economic fallout.

Moreover, the diplomatic fallout is significant. By alienating traditional allies and neighbours, Trump risks not only economic repercussions but also a deterioration of trust and cooperation on a myriad of global issues. For Canada, this means grappling with strained relations at a time when collaboration and mutual support are more critical than ever.

News: Donald Trump jolts stock markets with plan to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico

In pursuing this economic gambit, Trump appears willing to gamble with the economic stability of both nations and the livelihoods of millions. The promise of a short-term fiscal gain for a privileged few comes at the expense of long-term economic health and international goodwill. It is a strategy fraught with peril and one that Canadians, alongside our American neighbours, may find difficult to reconcile.

As the situation unfolds, it is imperative to critically examine the motivations and implications of these policies. The stakes are high, and the path forward requires thoughtful consideration of the broader economic and diplomatic landscape—one that values collaboration over confrontation and prosperity over protectionism.

Prime Minister Trudeau’s response to President Trump’s tariffs was spot on, echoing the Wall Street Journal with “Donald, this is a very dumb thing to do.” Unusually direct, but it sends a strong message. Trump shot back by mocking Trudeau, even calling him the “Governor of the state of Canada.”

Now, with the stock markets tanking, Trump’s Commerce Secretary Lutnick says they’re looking for a middle ground on these tariffs. Seems like the market reaction is forcing a rethink, though the damage is done. Canadians are rallying to buy local, which is something. A bridge between the two countries has been burned and it’ll take years or even generations before trust is restored, all thanks to Trump.

I’ve been hard on Trudeau in the past, but he’s handling this and other issues like Ukraine well, especially with only five days left in office.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 5, 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

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Monday February 17, 2025

February 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoons by Graeme MacKay – Monday February 17, 2025

How Trump’s Policies Could Shake Up the World Order

July 12, 2018

Since World War II, the U.S. has been at the centre of a kind of global peace deal known as Pax Americana. The idea was simple: the U.S. would offer security to its allies, and in return, everyone would benefit from economic and cultural exchanges. This system has kept the world relatively stable for decades. But former President Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy has started to disrupt this balance, putting long-standing alliances at risk.

January 12, 2022

Trump’s “America First” mindset often led to criticizing allies like Canada for not spending enough on defense. He even went so far as to suggest that Canada might as well become the 51st state, ignoring the deep-rooted partnership between the two countries. This kind of rhetoric overlooks the history of cooperation that has benefited everyone involved.

February 9, 2016

Over the years, the U.S. has sometimes put its interests first, even if it meant straining relationships with allies. Whether it’s imposing trade tariffs or making military decisions, America has acted independently when it saw fit. While this might have served short-term goals, it hasn’t always sat well with other countries.

One big factor in all this is the U.S. focus on its military-industrial complex. America spends a lot on defense, often at the expense of social programs like healthcare. Despite having the most expensive healthcare system globally, many Americans still struggle to get the care they need. Meanwhile, countries like Canada and those in Europe have been able to invest in universal healthcare and other social benefits, partly because of the security the U.S. provides.

Trump’s shift towards a more transactional approach with allies could push them to look elsewhere for partnerships. This could lead to new alliances forming, changing the balance of power in the world. A more fragmented global landscape would make international cooperation harder and the world less predictable.

November 14, 2017

In short, while “America First” might seem like a good deal for the U.S., it misses the bigger picture. By stepping away from the principles that have held the world together for so long, the U.S. risks losing its influence and creating a more unstable global environment. Future leaders need to remember the value of working together and aim to rebuild the collaborative spirit that has defined America’s role in the world for decades. Only through teamwork and respect can we keep the world a stable and prosperous place.

Saturday February 1, 2025

February 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Ontario's provincial leaders are strategically distancing themselves from their federal counterparts, reflecting broader political disunity and redefining party dynamics ahead of the upcoming election.

February 1, 2025

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 1, 2025

Ontario’s Leaders Break Free from Federal Ties

In week one of Ontario’s provincial election campaign, a curious phenomenon is taking shape: the leaders of the three main parties are deliberately distancing themselves from their federal counterparts. This strategic divergence mirrors a reciprocal distancing at the federal level, creating an unusual landscape of political disunity across Canada.

Progressive Conservatives: Doug Ford vs. Pierre Poilievre

January 15, 2025

Doug Ford, the Progressive Conservative leader in Ontario, has taken a noticeable step back from federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Ford’s campaign is heavily centred on protecting Ontario’s vital auto industry, a stance that conflicts with Poilievre’s skepticism about corporate subsidies. This divergence highlights a significant policy gap between the provincial and federal wings of the party. Ford’s focus on economic security and job protection resonates with Ontario’s centrist voters, contrasting with Poilievre’s more fiscally conservative approach. The lack of response from Poilievre’s camp to Ford’s implied criticisms suggests a reciprocation of this distance, as Poilievre navigates his own political landscape without entangling with provincial issues.

News: Doug Ford warns Pierre Poilievre that Ontario’s auto industry must be protected

Liberal Party: Bonnie Crombie vs. Justin Trudeau

December 5, 2023

Bonnie Crombie’s strategic distancing from Justin Trudeau is both a response to and a reflection of the federal party’s challenges. Crombie has positioned herself as a centrist, opposing Trudeau’s carbon tax and emphasizing practical solutions to provincial issues like healthcare and affordability. Her approach is designed to appeal to Ontario voters who may be wary of federal Liberal policies. Trudeau’s resignation and the leadership vacuum at the federal level further accentuate this separation, allowing Crombie to craft a distinct identity for the Ontario Liberals. The federal party, in turn, seems content to let provincial leaders navigate their own paths, reflecting the broader uncertainty in national Liberal politics.

News: Bonnie Crombie pitches her vision for Ontario, while distancing herself from Trudeau

New Democratic Party: Marit Stiles vs. Jagmeet Singh

October 24, 2023

Marit Stiles’s handling of the Sarah Jama controversy has exposed internal rifts within the Ontario NDP, and her silence from federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh adds another layer to this complex relationship. Stiles’s decision to expel Jama from the caucus has led to calls for a leadership review, highlighting ideological divides within the party. Singh’s decision not to intervene might be a strategy to maintain federal unity, but it underscores a lack of cohesion between the provincial and federal wings. This distancing reflects broader challenges for the NDP as they attempt to balance diverse viewpoints within their ranks while presenting a united front to voters.

An Unusual Landscape of Disunity
The reciprocal distancing between provincial and federal counterparts across all three major parties is symptomatic of a larger political realignment in Canada. Leaders are focusing on provincial priorities, crafting distinct identities that resonate with local electorates, and steering clear of federal controversies. This disunity, while strategic, presents challenges for party cohesion and electoral success. Voters are left to navigate a complex political landscape where traditional party affiliations and platforms no longer align seamlessly across provincial and federal lines.

News: How Ontario’s party leaders defined themselves and their opponents on day 1 of campaign

As Ontario’s election unfolds, this unique scenario of political disunity may serve as a precursor to broader shifts in Canadian politics, where localized issues and leadership styles take precedence over national unity within party ranks. The outcome will not only shape the future of Ontario but could also signal new directions for political strategy and alignment across the country.

As an editorial cartoonist, election seasons have always been a great source of inspiration, but this time things feel a bit scattered. Take Marit Stiles, for example. I don’t know much about her, and I suspect many voters don’t either. Her campaign might as well use the punchline, “I’m not them, either,” as she tries to stand apart from the federal NDP without a clear narrative of her own.

Doug Ford and Pierre Poilievre are both popular in the polls, yet their approaches differ. Ford focuses on provincial issues like the auto industry, while Poilievre takes a more conservative fiscal stance. For the Liberals, both in Ontario and nationally, there seems to be a fresh start. With Justin Trudeau stepping back, Bonnie Crombie is positioning herself in the middle, appealing to a wide range of voters.

What’s missing, though, is the excitement that usually comes with elections. The NDP, both federally and provincially, seems to be lacking energy and direction.

For me, the absence of editorial board meetings is particularly noticeable. I used to enjoy sketching political leaders as they answered questions from our writers and reporters, capturing their essence in real-time. These sessions offered a glimpse into their personalities and policies, allowing me to add a personal touch to my cartoons. Over the years, I’ve drawn everyone from Kathleen Wynne to Dalton McGuinty, and even going back to Premier Ernie Eves. I’ve sketched faces like Jack Layton, Ralph Goodale, Marc Garneau, and Stephen Harper before he became Prime Minister.

These gatherings were more than just drawing sessions; they were about engaging with the political process and seeing leadership in action. It’s a loss that these face-to-face encounters have dwindled—first with Doug Ford’s absence, then the pandemic, and now a reluctance from leaders to participate.

As we go through the motions of these times, I find myself looking back on those interactions and the insights they provided. Whether it was small talk with Dalton McGuinty or a sketch of Ken Dryden, these moments were invaluable in shaping my view of our political landscape. Now, as we face new challenges, I hope for a return to that spirit of engagement and dialogue that once brought our political leaders to life through the strokes of my pencil.

Enjoy the latest making-of clip:

https://youtu.be/kzQvzxeK4FII’m

– The Graeme Gallery

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Thursday January 30, 2025

January 30, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

January 30, 2025

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday January 30, 2025, and The Toronto Star

The Foreign Interference Inquiry – A Missed Opportunity for Action

January 28, 2025

As Canadians approach another federal election, concerns about foreign interference still hang over us, yet we lack clear answers. Despite the efforts put into the foreign interference inquiry and Justice Marie-Josée Hogue’s extensive report, we’re left asking the same questions since the 2021 election: What did the government know about foreign interference? When did they know it? And what actions were taken?

This inquiry, meant to protect our democracy, seems to have missed the mark in providing the answers and actions Canadians need. The report highlights some worrying attempts to influence politics, but it also criticizes the government for not taking the issue seriously enough or acting swiftly.

News: Five takeaways from the foreign-interference inquiry

August 2, 2024

The recommendations—such as changing laws and improving how we handle misinformation—are good on paper but seem unlikely to be put into action before the election. With Parliament on hold until March and the ruling party caught up in a leadership race, there’s little momentum for making these changes.

The opposition parties, while outspoken, haven’t pushed hard enough to make these reforms happen quickly. This leaves us vulnerable to further interference as we head into the election.

June 13, 2023

Rather than sparking real change, the inquiry risks becoming just another exercise in going through the motions. The lack of straightforward answers and immediate actions from this report disappoints Canadians who expect real protection against foreign meddling in elections.

Without clear steps forward, we might face the next election with the same weaknesses as before. It’s crucial for both the government and opposition to make Justice Hogue’s recommendations a priority. Only then can we start to restore faith in our democratic processes and ensure foreign interference is dealt with effectively. Until that happens, Canadians are left shortchanged by an inquiry that promised more than it has delivered.

In my latest editorial drawing, I illustrate the frustratingly slow political response to foreign interference in Canada, a concern that has persisted for years. A prime example is the inquiry led by former Governor General David Johnston, who was tasked with addressing this issue but ultimately saw his reputation sullied when his efforts were dismissed. That seems like dog ages ago, doesn’t it?

In the drawing, a race unfolds between a snail, embodying Justice Hogue, who hands over a report titled “Recommendations,” and a turtle resembling Trudeau, who dismissively says, “Great, I’ll pass it to my successor.” Meanwhile, a hare, representing Pierre Poilievre, races ahead exclaiming, “Time for a carbon tax election!” This scene highlights the government’s aloofness and the opposition’s feigned outrage, while critical questions about foreign interference remain unanswered. The finish line, ominously marked “FINISH of Prorogation,” leads into a threatening mouth and forked tongue labelled “2025 Election” underscoring the risks of inaction as we approach the next federal campaign for Canadians’ votes.

Please enjoy the January 30, 2025 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Posts come out every 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. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!

– The Graeme Gallery

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