leadership – mackaycartoons

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)

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 November 28, 2023

November 28, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 28, 2023

Ontario Liberals Await New Leader Amidst Voter Apathy Concerns

June 15, 2023

On the cusp of unveiling their new leader this coming weekend, the Ontario Liberal Party finds itself caught between the shadows of Premier Doug Ford and the looming specter of voter apathy. As the live delegate votes unfold in suspense over the next few days, the pressing question for the Ontario Liberals is whether Doug Ford or voter apathy poses the greater challenge.

Over the weekend, thousands of Ontario Liberals participated in the party’s leadership race, casting their ballots for one of four candidates: Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith, MPP Ted Hsu, and MP Yasir Naqvi. The anticipation is palpable, with the announcement of the new leader scheduled for next Saturday at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

News: Ontario Liberals will voted this past weekend to select new leader

March 7, 2023

A significant shift in the party’s leadership selection process is underway, as the Liberals adopt a one-member-one-vote system, mirroring the method that led to Doug Ford’s selection in 2018. While some members applaud the transparency and inclusivity of the new process, concerns linger. William Davis, a delegate from the 2020 convention, voiced reservations about the system, suggesting a longer membership requirement to ensure a more informed electorate.

The contest seems to be invigorating the party, with interim leader John Fraser noting the excitement and energy among Liberals during the weekend’s events. However, the specter of the 2022 election defeat to Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives continues to cast its shadow. The post-mortem report released on January 5, 2023, highlights the party’s struggles with an unpopular leader, unclear messaging, and insufficient campaign resources.

News: Ontario records lowest voter turnout in election history

June 9, 2022

The Liberals admitted that their platform lacked a clear vision for the province, relying on gimmicky promises that failed to resonate with voters. The review also identified challenges in volunteer recruitment, canvassing, and a deficiency in voter data and polling efforts. With only 43 percent voter turnout in the 2022 election, apathy emerged as a significant hurdle, affecting all parties.

As the Liberals brace for the announcement of their new leader, the question of whether they have effectively addressed the issues identified in the post-mortem report lingers. Will the chosen leader be equipped to rally the party, engage voters, and pose a formidable challenge to Doug Ford in the 2026 election? Or will the shadow of voter apathy continue to eclipse the party’s efforts, leaving them vulnerable in the political landscape of Ontario? The next chapter in Ontario Liberal politics awaits, and the outcome will undoubtedly shape the party’s trajectory in the years to come. (AI)

Thursday November 9, 2023

November 9, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday November 9, 2023

The Risk of Clinging to Power: A Tale of Two Fading Leaders

February 23, 2021

In today’s political landscape, both Justin Trudeau and Joe Biden find themselves teetering on the edge of a potentially irreversible defeat, yet clinging firmly to power despite overwhelming public dissatisfaction and concerning polling data. Their refusal to acknowledge the writing on the wall, coupled with the looming specters of polarizing right-wing figures, risks steering their respective parties towards inevitable downfall.

The scenes in Canada and the United States share a disheartening resemblance. Trudeau’s Liberals are grappling with a troubled political landscape marked by declining fortunes and a substantial negative impression among the electorate. The roots of discontent run deep, with Trudeau’s leadership scrutinized for alleged lack of vision, inauthenticity, and a perceived mishandling of national issues. The hope of exposing opponents, such as Pierre Poilievre, has backfired, signaling a dire need for a shift within the party’s strategy.

Opinion: Biden and Trudeau are both facing calls to step aside. The consequences would be very different

December 8, 2022

On the other side of the border, Biden faces a similar predicament, trailing behind a resurgent Donald Trump in battleground states. Biden’s support among key demographic groups critical to his 2020 victory is slipping, compounded by doubts about his age and economic policies. The erosion of his multiracial and multigenerational coalition coupled with the alarming defection of black voters in favor of Trump signifies a decaying support base critical to the Democratic Party’s success.

The refusal of both leaders to acknowledge the warning signs is alarming. Suggestions for Trudeau to step aside and Biden’s potential for an accomplished legacy are overshadowed by their persistence to contest once more, possibly leading to an era of disastrous consequences. While Biden’s camp dismisses concerns, citing past electoral surprises, and Trudeau holds on to hopes of an improved economy swaying the voters, both seem oblivious to the shifting tides and deep-rooted public sentiment.

NYT: Elections Offer Respite for Biden, but Show Disparity Between Him and His Party

May 13, 2022

The urgency is clear: clinging to power against the rise of polarizing right-wing figures—Poilievre and Trump—leaves little room for a successful outcome. The choice isn’t solely about re-electing Trudeau or Biden but a pressing need to prevent the return of these polarizing figures. The question now lies not in the inevitability of their parties’ potential defeat but how these leaders persist in refusing to heed the calls for change, risking the very stability of their nations in the process. The time for a strategic recalibration is now, but will they listen?

In summary, both Trudeau and Biden stand at a crossroads, risking their parties’ inevitable defeat by disregarding glaring warning signs and clinging fiercely to power in the face of rising right-wing contenders, risking significant consequences for their respective nations’ future. (AI)

Tuesday October 17, 2023

October 17, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday October 17, 2023

The Inevitable Unraveling of Coalition Governments

January 24, 2023

Coalition governments, formed when two or more political parties join forces to secure power and maintain stability, are often seen as a compromise for the greater good. Yet, history has shown us that such arrangements are not built to last forever. The recent developments in the partnership between the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP) in Canada serve as a stark reminder of this inherent fragility.

The initial optimism that surrounded the Liberal-NDP coalition seemed like a promising harbinger of cooperation in Canadian politics. However, as time has progressed, it’s become apparent that this alliance, which sought to assure cooperation, has instead become a liability for both parties. The primary catalyst for this shift in dynamics is the issue of pharmacare, a central concern for the NDP.

At their policy convention in Hamilton, the NDP drew a line in the sand, passing an emergency resolution that firmly demands the Liberals commit to a “universal, comprehensive and entirely public pharmacare program.” The New Democrats’ resolve in this matter is undeniable, and they have made it clear that weak legislation will not suffice. The NDP’s insistence on robust pharmacare legislation has put the coalition’s unity in jeopardy.

Analysis: Jagmeet Singh’s election results have been terrible. Here are 5 reasons why the NDP wants him as leader anyway

April 8, 2022

The implications of this growing schism are far-reaching. Should the NDP decide to withdraw their support for the coalition over the pharmacare issue, it would undoubtedly transform pharmacare into a decisive “ballot-box issue” in the next election. This not only illustrates the internal divisions within the coalition but also underscores how coalition governments can unravel over time due to the differing priorities and agendas of their member parties.

June 13, 2019

The struggle over pharmacare is a clear example of how coalition governments can become victims of their own success. The Liberals and the NDP entered into this arrangement in March 2022 to ensure the survival of the minority government until June 2025. However, it’s essential to remember that such agreements, while initially beneficial for securing power, can become precarious when parties with different policy priorities seek to maintain their distinct identities.

The current standoff between the Liberals and the NDP on pharmacare highlights a broader issue in coalition politics. The partners might find common ground initially, but over time, the unique priorities, electoral strategies, and party identities resurface. As a result, the very cooperation that helped form the government becomes the source of its instability and potential downfall.

News: Jagmeet Singh receives 81% support in confidence vote after defending deal with Liberals

October 23, 2019

In the case of the Liberal-NDP coalition, it’s essential to recognize that the NDP views pharmacare as a pivotal issue that distinguishes them from their Liberal counterparts. While the Liberals had promised a national pharmacare program in the 2019 election, their silence on this matter in the 2021 election has only exacerbated the divide.

As the New Democrats refocus their efforts on recruiting candidates, emphasizing healthcare, and addressing the rising cost of living, it’s evident that they’re preparing for an election where healthcare will be a central concern. The coalition’s future remains uncertain, but the pharmacare dispute underscores the inherent difficulties of maintaining a stable partnership between two parties with differing visions.

The Liberal-NDP coalition’s tumultuous journey over pharmacare is a stark reminder that coalition governments are not built to last indefinitely. These arrangements, formed to ensure stability and cooperation, can become marred by the reemergence of party-specific priorities and agendas. As the coalition struggles to reconcile these differences, the inevitable unravelling of their partnership serves as a cautionary tale for future coalitions in Canada and around the world. (AI)

Saturday September 30, 2023

September 30, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday Septemebr 30, 2023

Trudeau’s Tumultuous Times: From Celebrity Leader to Global Isolation

September 19, 2020

Justin Trudeau’s fall from grace has been nothing short of spectacular, and recent events have exposed his leadership as humiliating for Canada on the global stage. The prime minister’s handling of these challenges has left Canada isolated and struggling to correct disasters that have occurred on his watch, and the problems he has created.

One of the most damaging incidents was Trudeau’s shocking allegation that the Indian government participated in the extrajudicial killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil, a Sikh. Delhi vehemently denied any involvement, and Trudeau’s response only seemed to escalate tensions. His attempt to stand up for the “rules-based order” sounded hollow, and reporters rightly questioned where Canada’s allies were in this moment of crisis.

September 1, 2018

Canada’s closest allies, members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, provided lukewarm support at best. The UK and Australia expressed concern but stopped short of strong condemnation. The United States, a key partner, failed to come to Canada’s defense, with President Joe Biden even praising India for its economic contributions. This lack of support underscores the harsh geopolitical reality that Canada’s interests pale in comparison to India’s strategic importance.

News: Welcome to the latest — and now very embarrassing — era of Canada’s foreign policy

January 20, 2023

Trudeau’s inability to rally international support reflects Canada’s limitations on the world stage. While Canada is a dependable Western ally, it lacks the hard power, force, and financial influence that often drive international politics. This moment of weakness has been exposed as Canada’s allies prioritize their relationships with more powerful nations.

Trudeau’s decision to publicly disclose the allegations against India may have been ethically sound, given the gravity of the situation, but it has not shifted global headwinds in Canada’s favor. Instead, it has led to escalating tensions with India, resulting in diplomatic expulsions and a suspension of visa services for Canadians.

March 23, 2022

Adding to Trudeau’s troubles, his leadership has been marred by domestic issues. Alleged Chinese interference in Canadian elections and the transfer of a notorious serial killer to a medium-security prison have fueled public outrage. Trudeau’s approval ratings have plummeted to a three-year low, with a majority of Canadians disapproving of his leadership. The prime minister, who once enjoyed celebrity status, has seen his star power fade as his tenure has dragged on.

Despite his international isolation, the India row may provide Trudeau with a temporary respite from domestic scrutiny. However, this incident cannot erase the erosion of his popularity and the growing disillusionment among Canadians.

June 18, 2019

Trudeau’s apology for Parliament’s recognition of a man who fought alongside the Nazis during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit only added to his troubles. This embarrassing incident has stained Canada’s reputation globally and deeply hurt the Jewish community. It underscores Trudeau’s inability to manage diplomatic affairs competently and his propensity for making embarrassing missteps on the world stage.

Opinion: Three Canadian politicians. Three public apologies. Who did it right?

In the end, Trudeau’s fall from grace is a cautionary tale of a leader who rode a wave of popularity into office but struggled to maintain his standing as the challenges of leadership grew more complex. His handling of international crises and domestic issues has left Canada humiliated and isolated, and his leadership is in dire need of correction. Whether he can regain the trust and support of Canadians and the international community remains to be seen, but it is clear that his days of celebrity politics are over, and he must now prove his competence as a statesman. (AI) Editorial Cartoon published in the Hamilton Spectator and the Toronto Star.