media – mackaycartoons

Friday August 16, 2024

August 16, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday August 16, 2024

A Lament for a Vanishing Medium

Link to the animated version of this editorial cartoon.

The decline of AM radio and traditional local media erodes vital community engagement, diverse cultural representation, accurate news coverage, and job opportunities, leaving society adrift in a landscape increasingly dominated by misinformation and fragmented digital platforms.

April 9, 2012

As automakers like Ford, BMW, Volkswagen, and Tesla phase out AM radios from their new vehicles, a cornerstone of American life teeters on the brink of obsolescence. The removal of AM radio from cars signifies more than just a shift in technology; it marks the erosion of a key medium that has been the voice of local communities for nearly a century. This change is part of a broader trend that is seeing traditional centralized sources of information—radio, television, and daily newspapers—being eclipsed by the vast, decentralized world of the internet. While this transition is exciting in its promise of innovation, it leaves us to grapple with the profound implications of losing a vital source of local information.

The recent closure of WCBS Newsradio 880 is a stark illustration of this trend. For nearly 60 years, WCBS was a bastion of all-news radio, providing reliable updates and in-depth coverage of local and national events. Its impending shutdown, as Audacy shifts its focus to sports programming, highlights the financial and operational challenges facing traditional news formats. Despite being a top-billing station, WCBS’s inability to survive in the current media climate underscores the fragility of established media outlets in the face of evolving consumer preferences and technological changes.

News: What the Demise of WCBS Newsradio 880 Says About the Future of All-News Radio

October 4, 2013

Similarly, the shuttering of CHML in Hamilton, Ontario, this week, further exemplifies this shift. CHML’s departure from the airwaves represented the loss of a local institution that had served the community for decades. This move not only deprived listeners of a trusted source of local news but also contributed to the growing phenomenon of news deserts, where local information becomes scarce and harder to access.

News: 900 CHML closes, ending nearly a century of local radio in Hamilton

The loss of local radio is emblematic of a broader issue: the decline of traditional media outlets that have long served as the backbone of local news. Daily newspapers and local TV stations, once staples of American households, have been supplanted by a plethora of online sources, often leading to news deserts—areas with little to no access to reliable local news coverage. This shift has significant consequences for public accountability, as fewer local journalists are available to cover city council meetings, school board decisions, and other vital civic matters.

As we navigate these uncharted waters, society appears to be adrift, struggling to find its bearings in a rapidly changing media landscape. The evolution from centralized traditional media to a decentralized digital world is fraught with challenges. Job losses in journalism and broadcasting have been significant, leading to uncertainty about the future of local information. In the absence of robust local media, rumours, confusion, and misinformation can spread unchecked, undermining the very fabric of our communities.

Essay: End of a love affair: AM radio is being removed from many cars

June 9, 2022

The excitement of the digital revolution is undeniable. It has democratized information, giving voice to the previously unheard and connecting us in ways that were once unimaginable. However, this progress comes at a cost. Little has emerged to fully replace the comprehensive coverage and local accountability that traditional media provided. As a result, we find ourselves in a precarious position where the loss of local radio and other traditional media forms threatens the cohesion and informed nature of our society.

In this moment of transition, it is crucial to reflect on what we stand to lose and what we must do to preserve the integrity of local information. Efforts to save local radio are not just about preserving a nostalgic past but about ensuring that our communities remain informed, engaged, and connected. We must seek ways to adapt traditional media’s strengths to the digital age, finding new models that blend the best of both worlds. Only then can we hope to navigate these uncharted seas without losing our way. (AI)

Published September 13, 1995

Way back in September 1995, before I became the Spec’s editorial cartoonist, I drew for the Brabant chain of newspapers serving the communities of Hamilton, Dundas, Ancaster, Flamborough, Stoney Creek and Hamilton Mountain. I was given a nice gig at the time illustrating local personalities (John Fortino, Max Mintz, Sheila Copps, George Love and Jimmy Lomax) written up by longtime CHML radio presenter, John Hardy. He was axed from his job in local radio the same year, 1997, when I was hired at the Hamilton Spectator. In the Saturday August 17 edition in the Spec, Hardy reflects on the loss of am900 CHML, and what it means for the city of Hamilton.

Friday August 2, 2024

August 2, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

By Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday August 2, 2024

A Midsummer Night’s Snooze: A Tale of Political Slumber on Foreign Interference

Act I: The Enchanted Woods of Ottawa

In the enchanted woods of Ottawa, where political dreams and realities intertwine, our tale unfolds. The Canadian political leaders, akin to Shakespearean characters, find themselves in a midsummer night’s reverie, oblivious to the machinations of foreign entities.

August 1, 2023

Scene I: The Court of King Trudeau

King Justin Trudeau, the noble but distracted ruler, holds court with his advisors. His recent efforts to establish the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections (SITE) Task Force are met with mild applause, but his mind is elsewhere, captivated by visions of climate summits and grand speeches.

Trudeau: “We have established SITE, my lords, to guard our elections from foreign sprites. But let us not fret too much; the fair summer calls us to lighter endeavors!”

Scene II: The Mischief of Puck Poilievre

Enter Puck Poilievre, the mischievous Conservative sprite, who delights in stirring trouble and pointing fingers, but prefers the comforts of ideological battles over addressing the ethereal threats of foreign interference.

Poilievre: “King Trudeau, why fret over these unseen shadows? ‘Tis better to joust with taxes and pipelines, leaving these foreign phantoms to their devices!”

February 29, 2024

Scene III: The Dream of Duke Singh

Duke Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic fairies, drifts into a dreamy state. While his heart is noble and his intentions pure, he too finds solace in the magical woods of social policies and justice, rather than the murky depths of election integrity.

Singh: “Let us dream of fairer wages and homes for all, for the meddling of foreign lands seems but a distant whisper in these enchanted woods.”

NYT: A Critical Gap in Democracy? ‘Yawn,’ Say Canadian Politicians

Scene IV: The Counsel of Titania May

Queen Elizabeth May, the wise and green Titania of this tale, alone speaks of the perils of ignoring the foreign sprites that dance around their democratic bower. Yet, her warnings are but the whispers of the wind in the ears of the slumbering leaders.

May: “Beware the whispers of foreign realms, for they seek to twine their tendrils into our sacred boughs. Our democracy is no playground for these tricksters.”

June 13, 2024

Act II: The Spell of Complacency

In a moonlit glade, the political leaders gather, lulled by the soothing summer breeze and the harmonious chirping of crickets. Oberon, the spirit of Complacency, casts his spell, and one by one, they fall into a deep slumber, their dreams filled with visions of grandeur and domestic triumphs.

Oberon: “Sleep, dear leaders, in this midsummer’s embrace. Let foreign meddling fade into the mist, for what harm can whispers do to those who dream so soundly?”

June 12, 2024

Act III: The Awakening

As the first light of dawn pierces the canopy, the spell begins to lift. The leaders stir, groggy but blissfully unaware of the night’s machinations. Yet, the woods whisper truths they choose not to hear, for the comfort of dreams is a powerful balm.

Trudeau: “Awake, my friends! Let us return to our courtly duties, assured that all is well in our realm.”

Poilievre: “Indeed, let us joust anew, for the day is bright and full of promise.”

Singh: “Let us champion the cause of the common folk, for in their dreams lies our strength.”

May: “Beware, though, the lingering whispers of the night, for they may return when least expected.”

Epilogue: The Bard’s Reflection

And so, the tale of political slumber continues, with leaders more enchanted by the dreams of summer than the pressing whispers of foreign interference. The enchanted woods of Ottawa remain a place where reality and dreams blur, and the threats of foreign lands are but distant murmurs in the midsummer night’s snooze.

Thus, the fair democracy of Canada lies, a midsummer dream, beneath the watchful yet weary eyes of its leaders, ever hopeful that their slumber will not be their undoing. (AI)

Sunday March 10, 2024

March 10, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Sunday March 10, 2024

Pierre Poilievre and the Crucial Role of Editorial Cartoons in Democratic Discourse

December 6, 2022

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party with a pretty good chance becoming Canada’s next Prime Minister, has consistently voiced his disdain for mainstream media. His call to defund the CBC, Canada’s public broadcaster, has ignited a contentious debate. In a recent article, CBC journalist Anton Wherry courageously confronted Poilievre’s confrontational approach towards the media. One particularly striking observation in Wherry’s piece elicited a verbal “BINGO” from me as I read it: “Poilievre’s criticisms of and attacks on the media also can be viewed as an extension of a political style that sees everyone as either a friend or an enemy: for Poilievre, if you’re not with him, you must be against him.” Haven’t we seen this play out elsewhere on the North American continent?

Anton Wherry: What, if anything, should voters make of Pierre Poilievre’s attitude toward journalists? – No politician in recent memory has mocked and criticized reporters more than the Conservative leader

December 1, 2023

This astute observation resonated deeply, emphasizing the need for Poilievre to “suck it up, buttercup” and recognize the indispensable role of media scrutiny in a thriving democracy. Quit the whining and face the music! Wherry’s article raises concerns about the potential dismissal of critical coverage, turned into an art form by Donald Trump, and a trend not limited to him nor Poilievre but increasingly prevalent among politicians like Ontario Premier Doug Ford. On the federal level, Prime Minister Trudeau, while appearing to answer questions, is a master of dodging any direct answers to many of them, but at least shows a modicum of courtesy to journalists without snarling like his main opponent does. This selective media engagement prompts the question: do voters prefer leaders who control their messaging through sympathetic outlets, potentially fostering lazy leadership? How is this helpful?

As an editorial cartoonist advocating for the importance of visual commentary in a healthy democracy, I stress the vital role of editorial cartoons, especially during election seasons. They transcend partisan boundaries, demanding clear answers from politicians of all affiliations. The power of editorial cartoons lies in their ability to raise crucial questions and priorities, making them an indispensable part of democratic discourse.

“Journalism bought to you by Trudope’s red star party” – Oh, really?

Wherry’s article also touches on concerns about government-controlled journalism through subsidies and grants. While acknowledging the compromises to media independence, I strive to point out my autonomy as a cartoonist in critiquing politicians from all parties without influence from corporate overlords. If you don’t like how I treated your hero leader in today’s editorial cartoon, chances are you’re going to love my cartoon in days to follow when I go after the opponent of your beloved prince or princess.

Wherry’s piece further addresses the bias in mainstream media, which leans towards democratic values. As I have said, newspapers without editorial cartoons are likened to burgers without patties—incomplete. Editorial cartoons serve as essential commentary, evoking laughter, tears, or even discomfort. Satire should also be interpreted as free advice politicians and their handlers, adoring apologists, and sycophants should gladly accept for their own benefit. It serves to validate internal conflicts that partisan suck-ups may possess secretly in the deep recesses of the brain – in other words, did my hero just royally screw up? The satire that follows will confirm it before lengthy opinion pieces do!

A growing concern is the tribalism exacerbated by social media, where partisans perpetuate narrow-minded thinking as keyboard warriors and trolls. Social media has transformed political discourse into a chaotic frontier, with reasonable arguments drowned out by partisan cheerleading and buzzwords. Mainstream media, once a regulator of information, now contends with the power of likes and shares and membership sales that are earned registering their support through scrolling on smart phones, and influencing the rise of leaders like Poilievre, Ford, and let’s not leave out, Justin Trudeau, and his social media pile-on brigade.

October 20, 2022

In the face of Poilievre’s criticism of the media, it is crucial to uphold the role of journalists and editorial cartoonists who challenge the status quo and speak truth to power. As politicians increasingly shun legacy media for outlets aligning with their messaging, it is imperative to question whether this trend aligns with the desires of the average voter. Commentary, opinion pieces, and editorial cartoons, with their nuanced perspectives, remain pillars of democratic discourse. It’s high time politicians, including Poilievre, and their apologists recognize their role and embrace the scrutiny that comes with public office.

Pierre Poilievre, content with his disdain for a local reporter seems pretty proud of himself after this performance in this YouTube clip that it’s shared in its full glory on his fan channel. Here he is mawing on an apple while A&Qing in an Q&A interview. How charming. The tribal bubble of his fan base is on full display in the comments. But like all politicians in the modern age, they’ll all eventually be eating their words of devotion and revelry for him should he ever control the levers of power and falls out of favour. It happens to all of them, yet the useful idiots go on to endorse the next messianic snake-oil salesman.
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Tuesday January 30, 2024

January 30, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 30, 2024

Pierre Poilievre, Trump Parallels, and the Inquiry Tango

November 9, 2023

As Canada embarks on more inquiry investigating foreign interference in its electoral process, all eyes are on how Pierre Poilievre will navigate the proceedings and potentially cast doubt on the investigation. The ongoing comparative study, drawing parallels between Poilievre and Donald Trump, adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding political drama.

The Abacus Data poll, revealing that 48% of Canadians believe Poilievre would vote for Trump in the 2024 US Presidential election, contributes to the narrative. The perception of similarity between Poilievre and Trump is explored, with about 4 in 10 Canadians seeing them as similar, particularly on issues like the environment, climate change, social issues, worldviews, respect for democracy, and a mutual distrust of institutions and the media.

December 6, 2022

Poll: Do Canadians think Trump and Poilievre are similar? And if so, does it matter?

Trudeau’s attempt to link Poilievre to Trump in the ongoing political landscape faces challenges. The survey indicates a potential negative impact on Conservatives if more people perceive Poilievre as Trump-like, but the ongoing Conservative lead over the Liberals suggests that the strategy may have limited efficacy.

The recent editorial by Andrew Coyne in the Globe and Mail raises pertinent questions about Trudeau’s messaging strategy. While Operation Trump Card aims to position Poilievre as Trump, Coyne argues that the approach may be absurd since few genuinely view Poilievre as bad as Trump. However, the Conservative leader appears content if those who like Trump see a resemblance.

Opinion: Liberals are reaching in tying Poilievre to Trump. But it’s worth hearing how he responds

June 13, 2023

As the inquiry progresses, Canadians will keenly observe how Poilievre navigates the foreign interference narrative, especially considering the undeniable traits he shares with Trump. Poilievre’s potential efforts to cast doubt on the inquiry could be strategic, aligning with the mutual distrust for institutions and the media that both he and Trump share, as highlighted in the Abacus Data poll.

The ongoing political discourse points to the intricate dance between Poilievre and Trump associations. Poilievre’s role in shaping the narrative around foreign interference will likely be central to his political strategy as the elections approach. Canadians are poised to evaluate these dynamics and their impact on the political landscape, questioning whether the perceived similarities between Poilievre and Trump, including their overblown characterization of opponents as criminals, will be a pivotal factor in the upcoming elections. (AI)

Wednesday December 6, 2023

December 6, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday December 6, 2023

Balancing Austerity in Tough Economic Times: CBC’s Cuts and the Future of Canadian Media

December 1, 2023

In the face of economic challenges and calls for austerity, CBC executives recently announced significant workforce reductions and production cutbacks to address a budget shortfall of $125 million in the upcoming fiscal year. While these measures are a reflection of tough economic realities, it is crucial to consider the broader impact on the media landscape, especially on private news media, particularly newspapers grappling with declining ad revenues and bankruptcy.

Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge, in an interview on Rosemary Barton Live, acknowledged the need for the CBC to receive fair compensation for its news content in the digital era. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the value of public broadcaster news for tech giants like Google, which benefit from advertising revenue. However, St-Onge also hinted at a potential cap on CBC’s share of the $100 million fund, expressing concerns about fair distribution.

News: Heritage minister hints at adjusting funds CBC could get under Google deal

April 9, 2012

Critics argue that the recent deal between the government and Google, aimed at compensating Canadian media companies, may disproportionately benefit the CBC. The $100 million figure falls short of initial expectations, leading to skepticism and concerns about public broadcasters competing with the private sector for both ad dollars and tech funds.

In response to the proposed austerity measures, CBC/Radio-Canada announced a 10% reduction in its workforce, amounting to 800 job cuts. This decision comes amid a challenging year for Canadian media companies grappling with shrinking advertising revenues, leading to hundreds of layoffs across the industry.

CBC’s President and CEO, Catherine Tait, outlined the reasons behind the budget cuts, citing higher production costs, competition from big tech companies, and declining revenues from traditional television. The impact extends beyond job losses, with a $40 million reduction in independent production commissions and program acquisitions, affecting both English and French programming budgets.

News: CBC to lay off hundreds, cut production costs as it faces financial strain

November 30, 2016

The government’s stance on CBC’s funding remains a subject of debate, with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledging to cut the budget for CBC’s English services while retaining coverage for linguistic minorities. This raises questions about the Broadcast Act’s stipulations, requiring the CBC to provide programming in both official languages.

As discussions unfold about the CBC’s role and funding, it is crucial to strike a balance that ensures the public broadcaster’s sustainability without further jeopardizing the struggling private news media sector. A transparent and equitable distribution of funds from the recent Google deal will be key to fostering a media landscape that serves the diverse needs of Canadians. (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: