mandate – mackaycartoons

Friday March 14, 2025

March 14, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 14, 2025

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Balancing Act

March 12, 2025

As Mark Carney stands on the cusp of becoming Canada’s 24th Prime Minister, the challenges he faces are as diverse as they are daunting. Sworn in today at Rideau Hall, Carney’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for Canada, with the weight of both domestic expectations and international pressures resting on his shoulders.

Domestically, Carney must navigate the political landscape shaped by Pierre Poilievre’s persistent rhetoric. By framing Carney as “Trudeau 2.0,” Poilievre seeks to capitalize on the waning popularity of the outgoing administration. To counter this narrative, Carney must swiftly distance himself from the Trudeau era, emphasizing his unique vision and policy direction.

News: After landslide victory, Mark Carney meets with Trudeau as transition to power begins

March 11, 2025

This task is complicated further by the internal dynamics of the Liberal Party. As Carney aims to form a leaner, more dynamic cabinet, he risks alienating those who were integral to Trudeau’s team. The disgruntled voices of Liberals left out of Carney’s inner circle could pose a challenge to party unity. However, by prioritizing innovation and embracing diverse voices, Carney has the opportunity to rejuvenate the party and foster a sense of renewal.

Externally, the stakes are even higher. President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies and annexation rhetoric present an existential threat to Canada’s economic sovereignty. Carney’s background in international finance and economics will be crucial as he seeks to defend Canada’s interests while maintaining a constructive relationship with its largest trading partner.

In this volatile environment, Carney must quickly seek a mandate from the Canadian electorate. A strong mandate is essential not only to legitimize his leadership but also to unite the nation in the face of external challenges. With a robust public endorsement, Carney will be better positioned to negotiate with confidence and authority on the international stage.

News: Mark Carney to be sworn in as prime minister on Friday

Carney’s diplomatic acumen will be tested as he navigates these turbulent waters. By engaging with U.S. counterparts from a position of strength, Carney can work to mitigate the impacts of tariffs and counter the narrative of economic annexation.

Yet, the path forward requires more than reactive measures. Carney must articulate a bold and forward-looking vision for Canada—one that emphasizes economic resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth. By doing so, he can reassure Canadians that his leadership represents a clear departure from the past and a promising future.

News: Mark Carney aims for smaller cabinet, team planning to drop over a dozen ministers: sources

In this new era, Carney’s success will depend on his ability to balance these complex challenges. By demonstrating transparency, engaging with the public, and achieving tangible results, Carney can build trust and confidence in his administration.

October 26, 2021

As Canada stands at this crossroads, the nation looks to Mark Carney not just as a leader, but as a symbol of possibility and renewal. The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but with decisive action and a clear vision, Carney has the opportunity to steer Canada towards a prosperous and united future. A strong mandate will be his compass in this journey, ensuring that Canada meets the challenges posed by an aggressive United States with unity and resolve.

Justin’s Baggage

Just finished my latest editorial cartoon, and it’s quite an interesting time for the Liberal Party with Mark Carney stepping up as the new leader. While my cynicism about the baggage of the past remains, there’s a sense of optimism with Carney at the helm, even if he’s an untested politician. His economic credentials and timing couldn’t be more fitting for the challenges ahead. At the beginning of the week, the party was riding high with Carney’s solid 86% support from the membership. But as we wrap up the week, the reality sets in that some of the cheers will turn to tears as long-serving ministers are shown the door. Carney’s got a tough job ahead, not only distancing from the past ten years but also facing formidable challenges from Pierre Poilievre and the unpredictable economic threats from our southern neighbour.

I know some might think I’m skewing my perspective to favour the Tories or just slamming the door on the derrière of the Trudeau era as it departs. But those who know my work understand I’ve never been a fan of Trudeau’s approach, which I feel has contributed to our current predicaments. It remains to be seen if Carney’s leadership will shift the dynamic, especially with Trump, who keeps pushing his wild notion of Canada as the “51st state.” I sure sure hope not! It’s a complex political landscape, and I’m just here to capture it all.

– The Graeme Gallery

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Tuesday March 4, 2025

March 4, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday March 4, 2025

Doug Ford’s Renewed Mandate in the Face of Tariff Threats

February 28, 2025

Doug Ford’s recent electoral triumph marks a historic third term for the Ontario Premier, a feat achieved amidst a unique confluence of political dynamics. In the wake of Justin Trudeau’s resignation and a period of federal leadership uncertainty, Ford seized the opportunity to cast himself as “Captain Canada,” positioning himself as the defender against Donald Trump’s tariff threats. This brilliant political maneuvering secured him another majority, but it raises the question: Can Ford genuinely combat the effects of these tariffs, or is this just another chapter in a saga of unfulfilled promises?

The recent Ontario election saw a voter turnout of approximately 45.4%, reflecting a persistent disengagement among the electorate.

Opinion: Congratulations, Doug Ford. Now I’m begging you, please start doing your actual job

February 14, 2025

Ford’s rallying cry against Trump resonated with enough voters among that poor turnout, tapping into a rising wave of Canadian patriotism. Yet, while his campaign capitalized on the moment, the reality of governance remains stark. The Premier’s track record in handling crucial provincial issues leaves much to be desired. Ontario’s healthcare system is plagued with shortages, closed emergency rooms, and notorious wait times. The much-discussed “hallway healthcare” persists, illustrating a systemic failure to address foundational problems.

Affordable housing remains another pressing issue. Despite promises, tangible progress has been elusive, with many Ontarians facing housing insecurity amidst skyrocketing property prices and rent. Ford’s approach to fiscal prudence and accountability also invites skepticism. His administration’s populist gestures, like eliminating license plate renewal fees and distributing pre-election cheques, have been criticized as short-sighted and fiscally irresponsible.

February 8, 2025

As tariffs loom, Ford’s bold promises of multibillion-dollar stimulus packages and retaliatory measures against U.S. goods must be viewed with caution. Trade policy primarily resides within the federal jurisdiction, and Ford’s capacity to influence international trade dynamics is inherently limited. His government’s response to tariffs might very well echo the reactive, day-to-day decision-making reminiscent of early pandemic days, yet lacking the depth needed for long-term strategic solutions.

Moreover, the reduction of inter-provincial trade barriers, a vital economic initiative, has seen little progress under Ford’s leadership. This inertia further exemplifies a pattern of inaction on complex issues that require more than just populist rhetoric.

Furthermore, Ford’s past reluctance to tackle complex issues like community college funding, class sizes, and other educational challenges suggests a pattern of prioritizing high-profile, populist initiatives over substantive policy work. With a strong mandate now in hand, it remains uncertain whether he will pivot towards addressing these enduring challenges or continue on the path of flashy, yet shallow, governance.

News: Doug Ford has won another term. What’s his 1st order of business?

February 6, 2025

While Doug Ford’s political acumen and strategic timing are commendable, Ontarians should temper their expectations. The coming years under his leadership might bring more of the same—grandstanding without substantial progress on the critical issues that affect the daily lives of citizens. As we stand on the cusp of potential tariffs and the geopolitical tensions they entail, Ford’s ability to navigate these waters will be tested. However, given his track record, skepticism about his capacity to effectively combat the tariff effects is not only warranted but prudent.

Friday February 28, 2025

February 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 28, 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Ford’s Early Gamble Pays Off: Ontario’s Vote Against Trump Turmoil

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Doug Ford’s quest to seek a strong mandate from Ontario voters, a full 18 months before the set election date, can be seen as a strategic move deeply entwined with the tumultuous political climate influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s rhetoric, often perceived as unpredictable and controversial, has not only riled up Canadians but also provided Ford with an opportunity to consolidate his political strength in Ontario.

In calling an early election, Ford positioned himself as a leader ready to protect Ontario’s economy from the looming threats of U.S. tariffs. By framing the election around the need for a robust mandate to confront these challenges, Ford managed to shift the narrative from domestic controversies to international economic concerns. His campaign emphasized his visits to Washington, where he sought to lobby U.S. lawmakers and defend Ontario’s interests, a move that resonated with voters wary of Trump’s trade policies.

News: Doug Ford on track to get that bigger mandate

January 23, 2006

This strategic pivot allowed Ford to capitalize on the anxiety surrounding international trade and align himself with Ontarians’ desire for stability and economic security. The narrative of standing up against external threats created a unifying theme for his campaign, overshadowing some of the criticisms related to his governance, such as issues with healthcare, housing, and environmental policies.

Polls leading up to election day indicated that Ford’s gamble was paying off. A significant lead over his rivals suggested that his message resonated with a broad spectrum of voters. The Progressive Conservatives appeared poised to secure a third consecutive majority government, an achievement that would place Ford in rare company in Ontario’s political history.

The polls revealed not just a lead in popular support but also a strategic advantage across various demographics and regions. Ford’s ability to appeal to both traditional conservative bases and swing voters concerned about economic stability gave him a comprehensive edge. The data suggested that despite underlying dissatisfaction with some provincial directions, many voters still saw Ford as the best option to navigate the uncertain global economic landscape.

News: Ontario heads to polls for snap election in face of looming Trump tariffs

February 19, 2025

In contrast, Ford’s opponents, while focusing on crucial domestic issues like healthcare and housing, struggled to gain the same level of traction. The Liberals and New Democrats faced the challenge of presenting a compelling alternative narrative in a climate dominated by concerns over U.S.-Canada relations.

As Ontario voters headed to the polls, it became clear that Ford’s early election call, although risky, was a calculated move that leveraged international dynamics to reinforce his leadership. By deftly capitalizing on Trump’s rhetoric and the subsequent economic concerns, Ford positioned himself not just as a provincial leader but as a key player in navigating Ontario through the complexities of global politics.

Doug Ford’s quest for a strong mandate, framed around the issue of Donald Trump, underscored his strategic acumen in aligning provincial politics with broader geopolitical concerns. The polls pointed to a likely victory, affirming that Ford’s approach resonated with voters seeking stability and decisive leadership in uncertain times. As the election unfolded, it was evident that Ford’s gamble on early elections and his focus on economic defence had solidified his path to securing the strong mandate he sought.

Subscription Membership Has its Privileges (My morning after the election cartoon only you and a few get to see before everyone else)

Creating editorial cartoons during an election is a dance with uncertainty, where the risk of choosing the right narrative before the results roll in is both thrilling and daunting. In the past, I’d sketch out multiple scenarios, each capturing different outcomes for Ontario’s political landscape: a PC majority, a surprise NDP surge, or a Liberal comeback. But with deadlines closing in before the polls, the luxury of waiting for results has vanished.

The “Young Doug Ford” series is my playful take on these times, where satire meets the unpredictable nature of politics. This particular piece, featuring a youthful Donald Trump in oversized fur, surrounded by Doug Ford and his buddies with their humourous “mandates,” was a gamble. My editor’s nervousness was palpable—what if the election didn’t align with the cartoon’s narrative? But that’s the beauty and risk of editorial cartooning: capturing the spirit of the moment, even if the specifics remain uncertain.

Gone are the days of newsroom hustle after polls close. The immediacy of digital deadlines has replaced the tactile adjustments of ink and paper. Editorial board meetings with party leaders and meet-and-greets with candidates that once enriched our perspectives are fading memories. Today, many candidates dodge public forums and media questions, a trend that mirrors the disconnection felt by voters. This disengagement challenges cartoonists to find fresh ways to connect with audiences, using humour and creativity to spark conversation in an era of political fatigue.

In this shifting landscape, the creative process remains an anchor. It’s about interpreting the zeitgeist, taking risks, and sometimes, embracing the uncertainty. Even as the times change, the mission of editorial cartoons—to provoke thought, entertain, and challenge the status quo—remains steadfast, a testament to the enduring power of satire in political discourse.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 28, 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

Read on Substack

Tuesday September 26, 2022

September 27, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday September 26, 2022

Border vaccine rules, mandatory use of ArriveCAN, mask mandates on planes and trains to end on Oct. 1

The federal government says it’s dropping all COVID-19 measures at borders on Saturday, meaning travellers will no longer need to provide proof of vaccination when entering Canada or wear masks on planes and trains.

As of Oct. 1, all travellers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:

•Submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;

•Provide proof of vaccination;

•Undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;

•Carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;

•Monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada;

•Undergo health checks for travel on air and rail;

•Or wear masks on planes and trains.

Thursday August 19, 2021

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said Monday’s decision is not a sign Canada is out of the pandemic, but said the government’s data showed the importation of new variants was no longer having an effect on the evolution of the virus in country.

The measures also apply to cruise ships so passengers will no longer be required to take pre-board tests, be vaccinated or use ArriveCAN. The government said guidelines will remain in place to protect passengers and crew, keeping in step with the United States.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was quick to claim the decision as a victory.

“After constant pressure from Conservatives [and] people across Canada, Trudeau Liberals finally back down on the disastrous ArriveCAN app, unscientific vaccine mandates and forced mask-wearing,” he tweeted Monday.

“None of the science changes October 1 but because of you, Trudeau has to. Let’s keep it up.” (CBC)

Wednesday August 31, 2022

August 31, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday August 31, 2022

Western University mandating COVID-19 booster shots, masking ahead of fall term

Western University is implementing vaccine and masking requirements this September for students, faculty, staff and some visitors.

October 21, 2020

The London, Ont., university is requiring those returning to campus to be vaccinated for COVID-19 twice with an additional booster. There is also a mask mandate in place in classrooms and seminar rooms for the first five weeks of class followed by a reassessment.

“Considering that the general population is at 50 per cent in terms of their booster shot, we think it’s not too much of an effort to get where we want to get,” said Florentine Strzelczyk, provost and vice-president (academic).

The policy takes effect as of Monday, however the campus community has until October 1 to submit current proof of vaccination to the university.