mackaycartoons

Graeme MacKay's Editorial Cartoon Archive

  • Archives
  • DOWNLOADS
  • Kings & Queens
  • MacKaycartoons Inc.
  • Prime Ministers
  • Special Features
  • The Boutique
  • Who?
  • Young Doug Ford
  • Presidents

Monarchy

Thursday March 6, 2025

March 6, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Trump's Court: The New Era of American Monarchy

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 6, 2025

“America is Back” – A Return to What?

The inauguration of Donald Trump in the Capitol Rotunda, a site of past chaos, highlights the deepening divides and fears surrounding his administration while Biden's preemptive pardons attempt to shield his adversaries from potential retribution against a backdrop of oligarchic influence.

January 21, 2025

The declaration of “America is back” by President Donald Trump rings through the halls of power with a resonance that’s both reassuring to some and disconcerting to others. But as we delve deeper into his policies and the current state of the nation, a pressing question arises: Back to what, precisely? The rhetoric suggests a return to greatness, yet the reality paints a picture that seems to harken back to an era less democratic and more autocratic.

Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China has been described by The Economist as an unexpected upheaval, causing a ripple of economic isolationism reminiscent of the protectionist policies of the late 19th century. Readers of The Globe and Mail express concern that these actions dismantle decades of progress toward free trade that the U.S. once championed. The United States, a founding figure in reducing global trade barriers through agreements like GATT and the WTO, now appears to be retreating to a time when tariffs were the norm rather than the exception.

News: A Combative Trump Says ‘America Is Back’ and Taunts His Political Rivals

Donald Trump’s second-term rhetoric and policies signal a shift from isolationism to economic and territorial expansionism, challenging global stability and international norms.

February 7, 2025

The editorial from The Globe and Mail paints a picture of a U.S. pivoting away from its Western allies towards the arms of the Kremlin. This shift raises questions about America’s role as a reliable ally in the post-war era, a period when it provided security and leadership against totalitarianism. Reader comments reflect unease over the abandonment of long-held security guarantees and the potential fallout for global stability. The U.S. seems to be distancing itself from the very alliances it helped to build, suggesting a return to an era of isolationism and unilateralism.

Domestically, Trump’s administration is characterized by significant upheaval, with an unelected billionaire like Elon Musk reportedly wielding power to fire civil servants. The concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals and the erosion of institutional norms evoke a time before the robust checks and balances established by the founding fathers. Reader comments express fears of a permanent alteration in governance, with democracy itself appearing to be under threat.

The escalating Canada-U.S. trade tensions, driven by President Trump's tariffs, have united Canadians across political lines and spurred retaliatory actions, while opening discussions on diversifying trade partnerships.

February 4, 2025

Trump’s rhetoric of annexing territories and embracing former adversaries echoes imperial expansionism. The notion of America “being back” might conjure images of a time when nations were led by divine kings, wielding unchecked power and pursuing imperial ambitions. This raises the question of whether Trump’s vision aligns with the democratic ideals and international cooperation that have long defined American leadership.

Opinion: Pax Americana is over. Donald Trump killed it

As Trump declares “America is back,” the question remains: Back to what historical period does he refer? Is it a return to economic isolationism, diplomatic withdrawal, and centralized power reminiscent of monarchies? For a nation that once stood as a beacon of democracy and global leadership, the current trajectory seems at odds with the principles that have guided it for over two centuries.

February 6, 2019

In this context, the call for vigilance and reflection becomes imperative. Understanding what “America is back” truly means is crucial for the nation and the world, as the implications of this rhetoric reverberate across borders and generations. The path forward must reconcile the nation’s historical ideals with the challenges and complexities of the modern world.


America is back (To c1534)

Just wrapped up another day at the drawing board, capturing the political scene. If you know my work, you’ll recall my detailed chart of English and British monarchs. In the Trump 2.0 era, though he’s been in power just six weeks, I’ve already illustrated him in royal attire a few times.

U.S. history has seen presidents compared to overbearing kings when they veer from the essence of a presidency, rooted in the republic’s founding ideals. Yet here we are with Donald Trump, the “anti-President,” echoing the Vatican’s anti-popes and Oliver Cromwell’s flirtation with kingship. Trump, who seems to relish the company of monarchs and dictators, has expressed his kingly aspirations openly.

What’s more, his followers are urging him to break term limits and push for a third term, a notion that challenges the legitimacy of democratic elections. It’s as if Trump and his circle of enablers have forgotten that a U.S. President isn’t meant to play king. With MAGA’s fealty and his grand rhetoric about territories, when Trump says “America is Back,” it feels like a nod to Tudor times

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 6, 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

Posted in: USA Tagged: 2025-05, Congress, Democracy, Doge, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, influence, J.D. Vance, Kash Patel, King, leadership, liberty, Mike Johnson, Monarchy, oligarchy, Pam Bondi, Pete Hesgeth, power, RFK jr., Substack, transformation, USA, values, wealth

Saturday March 1, 2025

March 1, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer strategically employs the British monarchy to gain favour with Trump, while Canada faces challenges under his administration.

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

Posted to the Toronto Star.

Recruiting Canada’s King For UK’s Strategic Flattery

June 4, 2012

In the nuanced world of international diplomacy, flattery has emerged as a key strategy for world leaders aiming to win favour with U.S. President Donald Trump. Recent developments involving the British monarchy, as well as Trump’s interactions with Australia and Canada, underscore the prominence of this diplomatic dance.

News: King Charles issues personal invite for Trump to visit Britain for state visit

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recent invitation to Trump for a state visit, personally extended by King Charles III, exemplifies this approach. The British monarchy, with its historical gravitas and ceremonial splendour, serves as an effective means to capture Trump’s attention. For a president who appreciates grandeur and spectacle, the invitation is both a stroke to his ego and a diplomatic gesture. However, this timing is awkward for King Charles, who finds himself a pawn in a broader geopolitical play, potentially neglecting Canada, another Commonwealth realm.

September 30, 2022

Since his re-election, Trump has displayed a peculiar fixation on Canada, with rhetoric suggesting annexation and plans for severe economic measures, including a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. This leaves Canada facing the threat of an economic conflict with its largest trading partner, while seemingly sidelined by its closest Commonwealth allies.

In stark contrast, Australia has adeptly managed its relationship with Trump, emphasizing shared defence interests and economic ties, such as those rooted in the AUKUS agreement. Even when Trump appeared unfamiliar with the AUKUS acronym, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other leaders downplayed the incident, reinforcing the broader, positive relationship. This showcases a strategic use of flattery and reassurance to maintain favour with the U.S.

Analysis: For Trump, Australia is nothing like Canada

December 16, 2019

Early in the week, French President Emmanuel Macron demonstrated similar tact with body language, flowery expressions of loyalty, and addressing Trump as “Dear Donald.” Such gestures highlight the lengths to which leaders will go to secure Trump’s favour.

For Canada, the situation raises a pressing question: If the British monarchy cannot utilize its historical ties to advocate for Canada during times of crisis, what benefit does this relationship provide? With the Canadian Liberals poised to choose their next leader on March 9, perhaps a new Prime Minister will seek to leverage the monarchy’s influence to counteract Trump’s economic threats. Until then, Canadians watch the fawning interactions between the U.S., the UK, and other Commonwealth countries, left to navigate Trump’s rhetoric and threats largely on their own. If King Charles can be persuaded to act on Canada’s behalf, it may rejuvenate the perceived value of these historic ties.


The Diplomacy Dance

It’s fascinating and frustrating how flattery seems to be the key to dealing with Trump. He seems to take any lack of deference as a personal insult to the United States. Take Zelenskyy, for instance—watching him get treated like a child while fighting off an invasion is just disgraceful.

On the flip side, Keir Starmer managed to charm Trump with a letter from King Charles, sidestepping those dreaded tariffs. It’s like watching a masterclass in diplomatic flattery. Meanwhile, here in Canada, we’re enduring Trump’s taunts and staring down the barrel of higher tariffs than even China. Given that King Charles is our King too, maybe it’s time we play that royal card in this high-stakes game Trump is playing with everyone.

Your support means the world, and I’m grateful to have this space to share these thoughts. Let’s keep the conversation going!

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for March 1, 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

Posted in: Canada, International, USA Tagged: 2025-05, annexation, Australia, beaver, bulldog, Canada, diplomacy, Donald Trump, Flattery, kiwi, koala, Monarchy, New Zealand, Starmer, Substack, tariffs, torture, Trade, UK, United Kingdom, USA

Saturday October 19, 2024

October 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Justin Trudeau, facing mounting internal dissent and dwindling public support, risks holding on to power too long, much like past leaders who failed to step aside in time, with impatient Liberal MPs preparing to force him out before electoral disaster strikes.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 19, 2024

Justin Trudeau Faces Another Final Reckoning — Will He Step Down or Risk Humiliation?

As Canadians find themselves in a political waiting room, anxiously awaiting a resolution to Justin Trudeau's uncertain future, the fate of his leadership and the upcoming election hangs in the balance, highlighting the intricate gamesmanship of politics amid public impatience.

October 10, 2024

Justin Trudeau, facing mounting internal dissent and dwindling public support, risks holding on to power too long, much like past leaders who failed to step aside in time, with impatient Liberal MPs preparing to force him out before electoral disaster strikes.

In Canadian politics, few events are as consequential as the decision of a long-serving leader to resign or cling to power. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is rapidly approaching such a crossroad. His government is faltering amid foreign interference scandals, internal dissent, low polling, and a rising opposition led by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. Trudeau, however, seems unwilling to heed the signals, risking a scenario where he could face defeat and drag the Liberal Party down with him.

News: Liberal MPs will present official demand for Trudeau to resign in coming days, sources say

March 31, 2001

The murmurs of rebellion within the Liberal caucus are no longer whispers but are poised to erupt in the next caucus meeting, scheduled for Wednesday. Several MPs reportedly plan to deliver a letter formally requesting that Trudeau step down, expressing the growing frustration among backbenchers that the Prime Minister’s leadership is now a liability. Party rebellion—one of the most public and organized challenges of his tenure—carries echoes of Jean Chrétien’s 2002 ouster, but with one key difference: Trudeau has no natural successor waiting in the wings.

July 11, 2020

Political history shows that leaders often prefer to exit on their own terms, sparing themselves the indignity of electoral defeat. Brian Mulroney, faced with a collapsing Progressive Conservative Party, opted to resign before the 1993 election—an election that decimated his party, though not his personal reputation. Similarly, in recent U.S. politics, Joe Biden appeared reluctant to seek a second term before ultimately bowing to political realities, leaving Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the Democrats into the 2024 race.

Trudeau is showing no signs of a similar graceful exit. Reports suggest that foreign policy issues, including tensions with India and fears over the impact of the U.S. election, may be influencing his decision to stay on

Opinion: Foreign crises are getting in the way of the inevitable: Trudeau’s departure

March 31, 2022

lf Trump returns to power in Washington, Trudeau could argue that his experience makes him uniquely qualified to manage Canada’s position against a renewed wave of American protectionism and geopolitical instability. Yet this logic may not resonate with his colleagues or voters, many of whom are disillusioned by the government’s domestic failures.

The public display of frustration from MPs such as Wayne Long, Alexandra Mendès, and Sean Casey indicates that this rebellion is not merely a passing grumble but a significant threat to Trudeau’s leadership. However about 20 MPs are rumoured to support his ouster, others within the caucus worry that airing grievances publicly weakens the party and plays into the Conservatives’ hands. Ontario MP Chandra Arya warned against leadership turmoil, likening it to a self-destructive act that could fracture the party structure.

May 20, 2016

This reflects a deeper political reality: after nearly a decade in power, the Liberal government’s electoral prospects are bleak. Trudeau’s reluctance to leave may have as much to do with personal pride as strategic calculation. His animosity toward Poilievre, whom he reportedly sees as unfit for high office, might be compelling him to stay and fight another election. However, as columnist Lawrence Martin argued, political momentum in Canada inevitably shifts after a long period in office, and Trudeau’s time appears to be running out .

The critical question remains whether the rebellion within the Liberal caucus will have enough momentum to force Trudeau’s hand. Rebellions like this are fraught with uncertainty. If the MPs calling for his resignation fail to muster enough support, their effort could fizzle out, leaving Trudeau emboldened to continue. On the other hand, should the rebellion gather enough steam at the next caucus meeting, Trudeau may face an ultimatum: step down or be removed.

News: 4 more Trudeau cabinet ministers won’t seek re-election: sources

Trudeau's extended tenure reveals a dismissive leader out of touch with Canadians' real concerns and resistant to addressing pressing issues. This is a parody of a well known editorial cartoon drawn of Former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker by Duncan Macpherson.

January 23, 2024

Yet, the Prime Minister’s response so far suggests he is ready to dig in. Reports indicate that his inner circle, including chief of staff Katie Telford, is blocking dissenting voices from reaching him, much as Chrétien did during his final years in power. If Trudeau continues to growing discontent, he risks leading the Liberals into the next election—one they appear destined to lose—with his legacy tarnished by stubbornness and electoral defeat.

The opportunity for Trudeau to leave on his own terms is slipping away. If he waits too long, the decision will no longer be his to make, and he may suffer the fate that many leaders dread: the humiliation of being ousted by either his own party or the electorate. Without a clear successor to rally around, the Liberal Party faces a daunting challenge.

For Trudeau, the path ahead offers two options: bow out gracefully, sparing the party and himself from further damage, or cling to power, risking a public revolt within caucus and electoral disaster. Given his track record and his apparent belief in his ability to weather crises, it seems likely that Trudeau will choose to fight. Whether that decision proves to be a final act of courage or folly will soon be revealed. (AI)


A backgrounder on this cartoon has been posted to my all NEW Substack Page! It’s at the early experimental stage (at the time of it’s posting,) and presented in the form of notes as I figure out how to integrate it into my daily routine. Find out what’s swirling in my head as I come up with my ideas.  It’s free and will continue to be, as will this carefully curated WordPress website which I’ve maintained obediently since 2012… until the traditional structure that has sustained me a livelihood collapses on top of me as it has for so many of my peers. Please take a look, and if you want to continue following/subscribe to my work, please subscribe, and thank you!

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-19, Canada, caucus, guillotine, Justin Trudeau, Katie Telford, leadership, Louis XVI, marie antoinette, Monarchy, rebellion, revolt, Substack

Tuesday March 19, 2024

March 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Navigating the delicate balance between privacy and public duty, recent events involving Princess Kate highlight the necessity for strategic communication within the Royal Family to foster transparency and trust while fulfilling obligations to the public.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday March 19, 2024

Royal Responsibilities: Navigating Privacy and Public Duty

Monarchy placemat

In the recent discourse sparked by an article in the Hamilton Spectator titled “The PR silence around Princess Kate’s well-being fuels frenzy about photo mishap” by Terry Flynn and Alex Sévigny, the intricate balance between privacy and public obligation within the Royal Family has been brought to the forefront. As the world scrutinizes the events surrounding Princess Kate, it becomes evident that effective communication strategies are essential in maintaining transparency and trust while fulfilling the duties expected of royal figures.

Opinion: The PR silence around Princess Kate’s well-being fuels frenzy about photo mishap

May 6, 2023

The contrasting approaches to health disclosures within the Royal Family serve as poignant examples of this dichotomy. King Charles, confronted with a cancer diagnosis, opted for openness, employing strategic communication to provide updates and foster empathy among the public. His transparency not only garnered sympathy but also served a broader public interest by raising awareness of prostate cancer.

Conversely, Princess Kate’s decision to maintain silence regarding her health issues, coupled with the mishandling of a family photo, resulted in a vacuum ripe for speculation and sensationalism. The absence of official commentary exacerbated the media frenzy, eroding trust and fueling wild conjecture.

January 15, 2022

While the desire for privacy is understandable, it must be reconciled with the reality that transparency and communication are integral to royal duties. Joining the Royal Family entails surrendering a degree of privacy in exchange for the privilege and responsibility of serving the public.

News: Can royals move on from Kate photo media storm?

In an era marked by relentless media coverage and social media scrutiny, the need for effective communication within the Royal Family cannot be overstated. Sound counsel and strategic storytelling are indispensable tools in navigating the complexities of public life while safeguarding personal privacy.

March 9, 2021

The saga surrounding Princess Kate serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate dance between privacy and public duty in the realm of royalty. As the future queen consort, her experiences underscore the necessity of embracing transparency and communication, even in the face of personal challenges. Only through open dialogue and strategic engagement can the Royal Family fulfill its obligations while maintaining the dignity and respect befitting its esteemed position. (AI)

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-06, beefeater, duchess of Cambridge, Great Britain, Kate Middleton, Monarchy, photoshop, Princess Kate, tourists, Tower of London, UK

Wednesday November 15, 2023

November 15, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

The Royal Canadian Mint is set to replace the image of the late Queen Elizabeth II with King Charles III's face on Canadian coins, with the winning design by Canadian portrait artist Steven Rosati awaiting approval from Buckingham Palace.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday November 15, 2023

Regal Evolution: From Elizabeth to Charles on Canadian Coins

May 6, 2023

The Royal Canadian Mint is about to embark on a new chapter, with Canadian coins soon featuring the face of King Charles. This shift in design, replacing the image of the late Queen Elizabeth II, marks a significant moment for the mint based in Winnipeg.

The chosen design, crafted by Canadian portrait artist Steven Rosati out of 350 entries, has been forwarded to Buckingham Palace for royal approval. Notably, the King’s effigy is poised to grace the iconic loonie for the first time, with a limited release of 2023-dated coins expected to circulate in early December.

News: The Royal Canadian Mint unveils the first coins bearing the face of King Charles III  

April 4, 2008

Reflecting on the history of Canadian coinage adds depth to this narrative. Dating back to 1857, when the dollar became Canada’s official monetary unit post-independence, the country’s coinage has undergone notable transformations. The introduction of decimal coins in 1858 and subsequent denominations in 1870 marked key milestones.

Over the years, the composition of Canadian coins, originally boasting a .925 silver content, has evolved, transitioning to .800 in 1920 and eventually abandoning silver in favour of pure nickel coins by 1968. Interestingly, Canada’s coinage journey also included large cents from 1858-1920, diverging from the smaller-sized US cent.

April 4, 2008

The need to differentiate Canadian and US currencies led to the issuance of a distinctive 25 cent coin around 1870. Despite initial delays, the silver dollar made its debut in 1935, featuring a portrait of George V.

Analysis: How does putting King Charles on Canadian money make people feel? It’s a coin toss  

Coins issued in Canada have historical ties to mints beyond its borders, with some struck in London’s Royal Mint or the Heaton Mint in England. Grading standards for Canadian coins align with those of the United States, emphasizing wear on the obverse, particularly in areas like crowns, laurel sprays, and hairlines.

August 7, 2003

In the present day, Canada boasts seven main denominations, including the iconic 1 C$ (Loonie), 2 C$ (Toonie), 50 Cent (Half Dollar), 25 Cent (Quarter), 10 Cents (Dime), and 5 Cent (Nickel). Yet, as we witness the introduction of King Charles on Canadian coins, it prompts reflection on the broader societal changes, like the diminishing role of physical coins in an era dominated by digital transactions. The cartoonish scenario of a grandmother introducing King Charles on a coin to her grandkids, met with confusion about both the monarch and the concept of coins, encapsulates this evolving landscape where tradition meets the modern age. (AI)

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2023-19, Canada, coin, generation, grandma, kids, King Charles III, Monarchy, tradition
1 2 … 8 Next »

Please note…

This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

  • The Hamilton Spectator
  • The Toronto Star
  • The Globe & Mail
  • The National Post
  • Graeme on T̶w̶i̶t̶t̶e̶r̶ ̶(̶X̶)̶
  • Graeme on F̶a̶c̶e̶b̶o̶o̶k̶
  • Graeme on T̶h̶r̶e̶a̶d̶s̶
  • Graeme on Instagram
  • Graeme on Substack
  • Graeme on Bluesky
  • Graeme on Pinterest
  • Graeme on YouTube
New and updated for 2025
  • HOME
  • MacKaycartoons Inc.
  • The Boutique
  • The Hamilton Spectator
  • The Association of Canadian Cartoonists
  • The Association of American Editorial Cartoonists
  • You Might be From Hamilton if…
  • Young Doug Ford
  • MacKay’s Most Viral Cartoon
  • Intellectual Property Thief Donkeys
  • Wes Tyrell
  • Martin Rowson
  • Guy Bado’s Blog
  • National Newswatch
...Check it out and please subscribe!

Your one-stop-MacKay-shop…

T-shirts, hoodies, clocks, duvet covers, mugs, stickers, notebooks, smart phone cases and scarfs

2023 Coronation Design

Brand New Designs!

Follow Graeme's board My Own Cartoon Favourites on Pinterest.

MacKay’s Virtual Gallery

Archives

Copyright © 2016 mackaycartoons.net

Powered by Wordpess and Alpha.

Social media & sharing icons powered by UltimatelySocial
 

Loading Comments...