Kathleen Wynne – mackaycartoons

Thursday March 28, 2024

March 28, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 28, 2024

Ontario’s Fiscal Crisis: Ford Government’s Reckless Decision-Making Burdens Taxpayers

March 27, 2024

In the wake of Ontario’s staggering budget shortfall and unprecedented debt burden, it’s time to shine a spotlight on the reckless decision-making of the Ford government. With a deficit soaring to $9.8 billion and a provincial debt reaching a mind-boggling $462.9 billion, it’s evident that Ontario taxpayers are bearing the brunt of the consequences of irresponsible governance.

Premier Doug Ford and his administration have consistently prioritized short-term political gains over the long-term financial health of the province. Their failure to exercise fiscal responsibility has left Ontario in a precarious position, with taxpayers left to foot the bill for their egregious mismanagement.

News: Ontario deficit will triple as economy weakens, 2024 budget shows

February 17, 2024

One of the most glaring examples of this mismanagement is the cancellation of annual license plate fees, resulting in a staggering annual loss of approximately $1 billion in revenue for the treasury. This move, touted as a populist measure, has left a massive hole in the province’s finances, further exacerbating an already dire situation.

Additionally, Ford’s government has frequently pointed out the “billion-dollar boondoggles” left behind by the previous Liberal governments of Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne. These include the scandalous cancellation of two gas-fired power plants, costing taxpayers over $1 billion, as well as mismanaged projects such as the E-health initiative, the Ornge Air Ambulance scandal, and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) modernization debacle. These instances of financial mismanagement further illustrate the consequences of irresponsible decision-making that Ontario taxpayers are now burdened with.

Opinion: Doug Ford’s free-spending fiscal ways in Ontario are worse than Kathleen Wynne’s

June 7, 2013

Furthermore, the Ford government’s ill-conceived attempt to impose stringent wage restraints on essential public sector workers through Bill 124 has backfired spectacularly. Not only was the bill deemed unconstitutional, but taxpayers are now on the hook for over $6 billion in compensation owed to these workers. This shortsighted decision demonstrates a complete lack of foresight and disregard for the well-being of Ontario’s workforce.

It’s abundantly clear that the Ford government’s penchant for reckless decision-making has plunged Ontario into a fiscal crisis of unprecedented proportions. The burden of the high deficit and extraordinary debt burden falls squarely on the shoulders of hardworking taxpayers who deserve better.

October 19, 2018

Instead of pursuing policies that prioritize the interests of the people of Ontario, the Ford government has chosen to prioritize political expediency at the expense of sound financial management. This approach is not only unsustainable but fundamentally unfair to the taxpayers who rely on their government to act in their best interests.

As we confront the daunting challenges posed by Ontario’s fiscal crisis, it’s imperative that we hold the Ford government accountable for their reckless decision-making. Ontarians deserve a government that prioritizes responsible governance and fiscal prudence, not one that squanders taxpayer dollars on short-sighted policies that only serve to deepen the province’s financial woes. It’s time for the Ford government to acknowledge their failures and take decisive action to address the pressing issues facing Ontario’s economy. (AI)

Friday December 15, 2023

December 15, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday December 15, 2023

Ontario’s Boozy Awakening Just in Time for Christmas Cheer!

November 30, 2022

In a festive twist just shy of two weeks before Christmas, Premier Doug Ford has bestowed upon Ontario’s booze enthusiasts a gift as grand as old Ebenezer Scrooge’s change of heart. After a century of stringent liquor control, the provincial government is set to break free from the chains of the past, bringing a wave of merriment to beer and wine lovers across the land.

Ford, in his role as the newfound spirit of holiday cheer, unveiled plans to uncork additional choices for buyers of beer, wine, cider, hard seltzer, and premixed cocktails. The modernization of Ontario’s booze laws, set to be fully realized by “no later than Jan. 1, 2026,” promises a liberating experience for consumers. In an exuberant announcement at an Etobicoke variety store, one of the 8,500 new outlets destined to sell alcoholic delights, Ford joyfully declared the fulfillment of a 2018 promise to bring the spirit of celebration to convenience and grocery stores.

June 26, 2009

Opinion: Under the influence: Doug Ford and the strange history of Ontario’s liquor laws

Ontario, donning a festive cap, will join Quebec as the only provinces to embrace such widespread, liberalized corner shop sales, treating its citizens like responsible revellers. Premier Ford, a teetotaller with a heart full of goodwill, urged those who partake in libations to revel responsibly and avoid the pitfalls of inebriated sleigh rides.

The publicly owned LCBO will continue its monopoly on spirits but will now dance to the tune of “competitive pricing,” potentially offering a yuletide discount for consumers. Retailers, donning their holiday best, will be free to set their own prices, promoting a harmonious balance between merriment and social responsibility.

November 29, 2023

Amidst the jubilation, The Beer Store, adorned in festive spirits, will continue to control beer distribution until 2031, ensuring that the beer-loving citizens of Ontario have a frothy source of joy. The province will sweeten the deal by paying The Beer Store to continue its successful deposit and return system, diverting 97 percent of beer bottles and cans from landfill annually.

Archives: When beer and wine almost made it into Ontario corner stores

All across Ontario, supermarkets, big box stores, corner shops, and even gas stations selling snacks can now apply for licenses to become purveyors of liquid holiday cheer. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, acting as the guardian of the Christmas spirit, will ensure that underage revellers are kept at bay.

September 24, 2015

In a tale reminiscent of Scrooge’s awakening, the announcement marks the end of the 10-year “master framework agreement,” signed by former Premier Kathleen Wynne, allowing the Progressive Conservatives to keep their almost six-year-old campaign pledge of “beer in corner stores” just in time for the June 2026 election.

While some critics, akin to the ghosts of Christmas past, warned of potential consequences and international embarrassment, the Tories decided to let the master framework agreement run its course, heralding it as good news and a step towards a more spirited future.

News: Ontario unveils plans for beer and wine in corner stores

As a final touch to this holiday extravaganza, the Tories will eliminate a 6.1 percent tax at on-site winery retail stores, spreading joy among the Ontario wine industry. Despite uncertainties about how many Ontarians are clamuoring for more places to buy beer and wine, the government is convinced that this spirited initiative will be the toast of the next election.

Monday May 8, 2006

In this whimsical tale of policy changes and holiday revelry, it seems that even the most staunch defenders of the status quo, like the former Liberal Premier David Peterson, have embraced the spirit of change or, in his own words, “If people want changes, I’m OK with it. If they don’t, I’m OK with that too.” After all, in the grand tapestry of public policy, the expansion of beer and wine in corner stores may not be the most significant piece, but it surely adds a touch of festive sparkle to the political landscape. Cheers to a merrier and more spirited Ontario! (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Tuesday December 5, 2023

December 5, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 5, 2023

Bonnie Crombie Faces Uphill Battle to Revitalize Ontario Liberals

In the aftermath of her victory, Bonnie Crombie now grapples with the challenging task of rejuvenating the Ontario Liberal Party, an uphill battle exacerbated by the shadows of unpopular predecessors. The names Dalton McGuinty, Kathleen Wynne, and Steven del Duca still linger as ghosts of electoral defeats past, casting a daunting backdrop against the present provincial landscape, where the PCs hold a commanding lead in polls.

November 28, 2023

Crombie’s leadership ascent, once predicted as a triumph on the first ballot, turned out to be a prolonged struggle, taking three rounds to secure a narrow victory. Moreover, the lackluster turnout for the leadership vote rings an embarrassing note, considering the boasted surge in Liberal memberships. Despite efforts to stoke enthusiasm, only a fraction of the party’s members participated, casting doubts on the true vitality of the Liberal base.

Crombie, a self-described retail politician with an energetic and relatable persona, now faces the formidable task of defining a clear party focus. Her leadership platform, while extensive in policies, lacked the critical element of fiscal responsibility, leaving voters uncertain about how her ambitious plans would be funded.

Early in her campaign, Crombie’s wavering stance on ideological positioning, initially leaning centre-right before retracting, raises concerns about her clarity and consistency. Striking a balance between attracting a broad spectrum of voters and establishing a distinct party identity will be paramount.

News: Bonnie Crombie is officially the Ontario Liberal leader. Here’s what she’s prioritizing

March 10, 2020

As leader, Crombie confronts four key challenges: crystallizing the party’s identity, learning the intricacies of provincial politics, fundraising, and attracting quality candidates. With the next election more than two years away, she has a window of opportunity, but the clock is ticking.

The decision on securing a legislative seat poses another strategic dilemma. Crombie’s contemplation of running in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, a historically strong PC constituency, underscores the complexity of her path to power. The challenge intensifies as she leads a party with only nine MPPs, necessitating careful seat selection for potential gains.

May 8, 2018

The scale of Crombie’s task becomes apparent when examining the Ontario Liberal Party’s recent political decline. From a dominant force with 72 seats in 2003 to a mere seven in 2018, the Liberals face the arduous challenge of regaining relevance. Despite recent modest gains, the party remains far from its former stature.

Crombie’s leadership strengths, particularly in fundraising, offer a glimmer of hope. However, overcoming the financial disparity with the PC and NDP rivals requires a sustained and aggressive approach. The grassroots rebuild, crucial for local support and candidate recruitment, appears to be an even more daunting endeavour, with many riding associations described as “completely dead.”

Opinion: Bonnie Crombie could be the next premier — or the last-ever leader of the Ontario Liberals

September 16, 2023

A recent poll underscores the enormity of Crombie’s task, with the Doug Ford government enjoying a substantial lead. While her leadership could sway some voters, forming government remains a distant prospect. Distancing herself from the Federal Liberals and Justin Trudeau is a necessary move, given the potential drag on her leadership aspirations.

In conclusion, Bonnie Crombie’s leadership journey is just beginning, marked by challenges that demand resilience, clarity, and strategic acumen. The road to rebuilding the Ontario Liberal Party is long, but with abundant energy and enthusiasm, Crombie might just navigate the twists and turns, propelling her party back into contention. (AI)

Tuesday March 7, 2023

March 7, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday March 7, 2023

Ontario’s Liberals hit rock bottom. Could Bonnie Crombie be their saviour?

The bad news for Ontario’s Liberals is that they’ve hit bottom.

The good news? Hitting bottom means they’ve bottomed out — and have nowhere to go but up.

Just not so fast. For a once-powerful party that has seen better days, these are early days in the rebuilding exercise.

Wait — correction: It’s not early days.

It’s been more than 1,000 days since Liberal delegates chose Steven Del Duca to begin “rebuilding” their dysfunctional dynasty at a March leadership convention precisely three years ago. Today, with only eight MPPs, Liberals are still on life support.

But after a weekend reunion in Hamilton, the party may be breathing easier. More than 1,500 diehards braved a cosmic snowstorm to preside over the rebirth of a moribund movement.

There were no formal tributes to the departed Del Duca. He is gone and now forgotten.

Instead, all eyes were on the new crop of aspiring leaders, each of them playing coy about “exploring” their candidacy and testing the waters. It doesn’t matter who they are, because you’ve likely never heard of these undeclared unknowns:

May 8, 2018

Stephanie Bowman, Ted Hsu, Yasir Naqvi, Nate Erskine-Smith and Adil Shamji. I’d tell you which ridings these backbenchers represent, federal or provincial, but if you don’t already know, it likely won’t help.

That said, I will say each of them is whip-smart: Among them — in random order — is a trade lawyer and ex-attorney general; an emergency room physician; a chartered accountant and bank vice-president; an Oxford-educated litigator; and a Princeton-educated physicist.

That’s a big brain trust, but it bears repeating — given that a physicist is among them — that political science and rocket science are unrelated. Physics requires logic, while politics demands fuzzy logic.

Which is why Premier Doug Ford’s Tories rule the province today, while the leaderless Liberals languish in obscurity and purgatory. I never make predictions, but it’s a safe bet that any of the above candidates might fail to light the party and province on fire.

Not because they’re not smart, which Del Duca was in his day. The question is whether they can touch people, reach voters, connect with them, and win them over.

May 4, 2022

None of the aspirants (two of them political rookies) strikes me as a breakout contender — at least not yet. In the old days, an unknown leader might have taken the time — and had the luxury of time — to cultivate the mass media and reap a harvest of votes at election time.

But we live in an era of celebrity politics, where a Ford can come from out of nowhere to rule Ontario and win re-election by cementing his connection to voters. Never mind the premier’s preposterous proposals to cut the gas tax, kill the carbon tax and pave a highway to nowhere — love him or hate him, people vote for him.

Against that backdrop, what’s a Liberal to do? One possibility is to fight fire with fire, meet celebrity with celebrity.

February 1, 2023

Perhaps that’s why a gaggle of former movers and retired shakers from the old Liberal brain trust took stock of the candidates and then tried to recruit the leader of another party — the Greens’ Mike Schreiner, MPP from Guelph. They published a love letter to the Delphi from Guelph that went unrequited.

For all of their flattery and folly — Schreiner is hardly brimming with crossover celebrity power — their desperate public appeal amounted to a vote of non-confidence in the current crop. Right or wrong, the mere fact that the old guard was so quick to write off the new contenders was telling.

Schreiner was a no-show on the weekend, of course. Like Del Duca, his apparition had not only come and gone but was also forgotten.

Yet that did not leave the field open to the other contenders or pretenders to the throne. Unexpectedly, they had a close encounter with celebrity power and buzz beyond the environmental movement:

October 23, 2001

Bonnie Crombie had arrived. Until recently, she had evinced no interest in the Liberal leadership, insisting her loyalty was to the mayoralty of Mississauga.

But Crombie, too, made her way through the snow drifts to the Hamilton convention centre to press the flesh — or more precisely, pose for selfies with admiring delegates in a crowded hospitality suite. Her Honour was never onstage but she stole the show.

Why now? What changed?

“She wanted to see the reaction,” an adviser said, musing that she generated “rock star status.”

Beyond celebrity power, is there a path to power? Crombie’s experience as a former MP and city councillor, now helming Canada’s sixth-biggest city, sets her apart from her rivals.

More importantly, she boasts a talent that her rivals cannot yet claim: A proven ability to poke and provoke Ford when they go face to face on the issues.

Will she run or will she walk away? Crombie is dragging her feet for now, insisting she won’t be rushed.

The only certainty is that the race is starting to get interesting. Unlike the New Democrats, who missed out on a leadership race when Marit Stiles ran unopposed, the Liberals may be in for a contest. (Martin Regg Cohn – The Toronto Star)

Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, March 10, 2023

Spec unfair to Liberals

I have always bragged to my friends in other communities how The Spectator was a smart local paper but something happened this weekend which made me rethink that. For those who didn’t know, the Ontario Liberal Party gathered in Hamilton for the first time in three years. Fifteen hundred people from all over the province braved a snowstorm to come here with the intent of reviving the party through constitutional change and electing a new executive council. There were great ideas shared and a feeling of empowerment. Coincidentally or not, federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre chose Saturday to have a rally in Stoney Creek. Those at the conference were aware he was in town for a couple of hours. I figured neither of the events would get a lot of coverage since we are well aware of cutbacks to newspapers, so you can imagine my surprise when I opened Monday’s paper to find a Spec reporter and photographer attended the Conservative event and not once in three days showed their face at the Liberal convention.

This is not sour grapes. This is about fair coverage especially when we have a high profile by-election. If Tuesday’s editorial cartoon is any indication, the Spec has chosen its political stance.

Sue Prestedge, Hamilton

Tuesday August 10, 2021

August 17, 2021 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday August 10, 2021

Premier Bill Davis was the steady hand driving Ontario’s Big Blue Machine

William Grenville Davis, premier of Ontario for 14 years (1971 to 1985), was a baffling, contradictory figure – a shy, inscrutable man, who liked family and football yet spent his life absorbed by political issues, travelling up to 160,000 kilometres a year; a tradition-bound, non-intellectual with a passion for ideas and experimentation that gave birth to such intellectual playgrounds as the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

February 1, 2019

The press consistently panned the performances of Mr. Davis, reporting that he was bland and boring, but he charmed voters out of the trees. Right-wing conservatives described him as a left-wing socialist; left-wingers attacked him for pandering to the right.

“Bland works,” he once said. “The only time a politician gets in trouble is when he opens his mouth.”

He was renowned for his ability to appear prosperous, calm and confident, to say little, and to lead the province through dramatic, potentially unpopular changes.

Mr. Davis died on Sunday at the age of 92 surrounded by family in Brampton, Ont., a family statement said. He was the fifth consecutive Tory leader to occupy the premier’s office since 1943 and held the office longer than any other.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was “deeply saddened” to hear of Mr. Davis’s death. “The former premier of Ontario leaves behind an incredible legacy of service – and I have no doubt that the impact of his work will be felt for generations to come,” Mr. Trudeau tweeted.

Premier Doug Ford said Mr. Davis served Ontario “with honour and distinction” and flags across the province will be lowered to half-mast in his honour.

September 12, 2000

Former prime minister Brian Mulroney said in a statement that “Canada has lost a great statesman today, and I have lost a great and true friend. Bill Davis devoted his life to Ontario, to Canada and to his family. The progress he made on many fronts as premier place him in the front ranks as one of Canada’s greatest premiers ever.”

Mr. Davis supported the controversial energy policies and constitutional endeavours of then-prime minister Pierre Trudeau’s Liberals; under his premiership, the free-enterprise Tory government bought a 25-per-cent stake in Suncor, an oil company, and initiated tripartite industrial strategies advocated by the New Democratic Party. And as education minister, he reformed and vastly expanded the education system – all without upsetting too many of the people too much of the time.

Yet his skills as a politician failed to help his successor. Nearly 42 years of Conservative government ended 138 days after he stepped down as premier on Feb. 8, 1985. His successor, Frank Miller, called an election and failed to win a majority government in the May 2 election. Mr. Miller’s minority government lost a vote of confidence on June 18 and on June 26, he resigned. (Continued: Globe & Mail)