NDP

Wednesday October 24, 2023

Ontario legislator Sarah Jama has been removed from the New Democratic caucus following controversial comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to a motion limiting her participation in debates.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday October 24, 2023

Ontario Legislator Removed from Caucus Following Controversial Comments on Israel-Hamas Conflict

June 18, 2021

In a surprising turn of events, a rookie Ontario legislator found herself ousted from the New Democratic caucus on Monday, just moments before Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservatives effectively silenced her in the legislature. The controversy stemmed from comments made by Sarah Jama regarding the Israel-Hamas war, leading to a rift within the party.

News: Sarah Jama ejected from NDP caucus over Israel-Hamas comments: ‘This was undermining our work’  

Initially, NDP leader Marit Stiles stood by Jama after she issued an apology for her initial statement. However, Stiles later revealed that Jama had spoken against a motion in the legislature without prior notification. This lack of transparency and collaboration prompted Stiles to make the difficult decision to remove Jama from the caucus, citing the detrimental impact on the collective work of the Ontario NDP official Opposition.

The Progressive Conservative government seized the opportunity to criticize Jama, introducing a motion that limited her participation in debates but still allowed her to vote. This motion, aimed at preventing distractions, was passed on Monday despite Jama and the New Democrats voting against it.

July 25, 2014

Earlier in the day, Jama took the floor in the legislature to voice her opposition to the motion, accusing the Progressive Conservative government of using it as a diversion tactic. Her statement echoed her previous remarks, which condemned the occupation of Palestine without addressing the Hamas attacks. Jama, who has Palestinian family ties, emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of essential resources in Gaza.

The situation escalated when Stiles officially expelled Jama from the caucus, citing her lack of transparency and teamwork. Jama declined to comment following the vote. Stiles clarified that Jama’s initial statement had not received approval from the caucus, further exacerbating the internal conflict.

Opinion: Sarah Jama has deprived herself — and her constituents — of a voice in the legislature 

The relentless conflict in Gaza places both Palestinian and Israeli civilians in a dire predicament. As Hamas, responsible for numerous deadly acts against Israel and hostage-taking, triggers a planned offensive by Israel's IDF in northern Gaza City, it is inevitable that innocent civilians will suffer the repercussions.

October 14, 2023

Adding fuel to the fire, Jama sent a cease-and-desist letter to Premier Doug Ford, alleging defamation based on his comments about her statement. Ford’s lawyer quickly responded, denying the defamation claims and emphasizing the premier’s right and obligation to condemn antisemitism and terrorism. The lawyer further asserted that the public has a corresponding right to hear his stance on these significant issues. If Jama proceeds with a lawsuit, Ford’s legal team vows to vigorously defend against it.

The fallout from this incident highlights the delicate nature of discussing sensitive international conflicts within political circles. It also underscores the challenges faced by lawmakers in balancing personal beliefs, party unity, and public expectations. As the dust settles, the Ontario legislature will undoubtedly continue to grapple with the aftermath and seek to restore harmony and focus on the pressing matters at hand. (AI)

Editorial cartoon printed in the Hamilton Spectator and the Toronto Star.

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 October 17, 2023

The Liberal-NDP coalition in Canada is teetering due to their growing dispute over pharmacare, highlighting the inherent instability of coalition governments shaped by the parties' distinct priorities.

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)

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:

 

Saturday May 27, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 27, 2023

Breaking the Alliance: A Necessary Step to Demand an Independent Public Inquiry

April 8, 2022

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has expressed his dedication to advocating for an impartial public inquiry into China’s interference in elections. However, the dilemma arises from his party’s alliance with the Liberals in Parliament. To exert effective pressure on the government, Singh must contemplate severing this alliance, which was initially established to support the Liberals for an additional year and a half. Given recent events and the escalating call for an inquiry, it is crucial to explore alternative avenues that guarantee transparency and accountability.

The alliance between the Liberals and NDP, known as the “supply and confidence agreement,” aimed to provide stability to the minority government. Unfortunately, it has allowed the Liberals to dismiss the voice of Parliament. Despite a majority vote of 172-149 in favor of an independent public inquiry, the Liberals have chosen to disregard it, relying on the NDP’s commitment to support them through the alliance. This situation undermines democratic principles, which require elected representatives’ voices to be heard and respected.

Globe & Mail: Mr. Singh, axe your alliance with the Liberals  

March 23, 2022

To intensify pressure on the Liberals and compel them to initiate a formal public inquiry, Jagmeet Singh should terminate the alliance. Such a move would not trigger an election but would emphasize the government’s minority mandate obtained in the 2021 election. By withdrawing their support, the NDP would demonstrate their dedication to accountability, transparency, and the restoration of Canadians’ trust in our democratic institutions.

A recent report by former governor-general David Johnston, though largely classified, emphasizes the urgent necessity of a comprehensive and independent public inquiry. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s offer to provide closed-door briefings for opposition leaders, along with access to unredacted portions of the report, falls short of satisfying this need. A public inquiry, with the power to compel testimony under oath and hold individuals accountable for their actions, is essential for a complete understanding of the events, their timeline, and the government’s response to foreign interference.

May 25, 2023

David Johnston’s recommendation for a fact-finding mission and broader hearings on foreign interference fails to address the fundamental issues at hand. While these steps are important for shaping policy improvements, they do not replace a thorough examination of what went wrong and who may bear responsibility within the government. Only a comprehensive public inquiry can provide the necessary transparency, rebuild public trust, and establish effective safeguards against future electoral interference.

All three opposition leaders, including Jagmeet Singh, continue to advocate for an independent public inquiry. Their unwavering stance aligns with the overwhelming vote in Parliament, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive examination of China’s meddling and the government’s response. Singh, by accepting the offer to review the complete report, reaffirmed his belief that a public inquiry is the sole means to restore trust and ensure a thorough investigation.

Clip: Poilievre calls on Singh to ‘do his job’ and force a public inquiry 

March 24, 2023

Jagmeet Singh must now demonstrate the sincerity of his commitment to transparency and accountability by taking bold action. Breaking the parliamentary alliance with the Liberals would convey that the NDP prioritizes safeguarding Canada’s electoral system over short-term political gains. By doing so, Singh can exert substantial pressure on the government, leading to a full and independent public inquiry that holds those responsible accountable and strengthens our democracy.

In light of mounting evidence and the overwhelming demand for an independent public inquiry, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh must reassess the effectiveness of the alliance with the Liberals. Breaking this alliance would send a clear message to the government that the NDP is unwavering in its pursuit of transparency, accountability, and the restoration of Canadians’ trust in our democratic processes. It is time to prioritize the thorough investigation that our democracy deserves, placing the interests of the nation above partisan arrangements. (AI)

 

Friday December 16, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday December 16, 2022

‘Stand on the side of the common people,’ Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre tells caucus

In a speech to his caucus ahead of the holidays, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said it is his party’s job to “stand on the side of the common people.”

Ahead of a closed-door meeting, Poilievre spoke to Conservative parliamentarians in front of the media, telling his MPs and senators that it is their job as the Official Opposition “always to stand on the side of the common people.”

“Their paycheques, their savings, their homes, their country,” Poilievre said, asking his caucus to spend some time during the break reflecting on how Conservatives can do that in the new year.

“I hope you have a wonderful break with your families, a time to renew and rebuild your energy to come back in fighting form on behalf of Canadians,” Poilievre said. “But it’s also a time over Christmas to think of the less fortunate, those who have less, those who are struggling more. Unfortunately, those people are more numerous than ever before.”

September 3, 2021

During his remarks, delivered first in French and then in English, the Conservative leader capped off his first fall sitting at the helm of the party by delivering a laundry list of ways he thinks Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the federal Liberals are failing.

From the cost-of-living crunch prompting some Canadians to turn to food banks, to young Canadians “stuck in their parents’ basements” because of housing unaffordability, Poilievre called for “legal limits” on federal spending to try to bring down inflation.

“The cost of government is driving up the cost of living,” he said, repeating one of his most-used talking points since becoming party leader.

Poilievre also spoke about public safety concerns, from the growing number of drug overdoses in Canada, to the ongoing contention over the Liberals’ gun control legislation Bill C-21 and their push to considerably expand the number of firearms that would be prohibited.

September 5, 2019

“So instead of putting time, money, and resources into attacking Indigenous people, hunters and farmers, Conservatives will protect those people’s rights and go after the real criminals to keep Canadians safe,” said Poilievre.

The Conservative leader also spoke about his concerns over the state of the Canadian health-care system, which he said was coming apart “at the seams.”

“It boils my blood to sit in a waiting room with my daughter, who’s got from time to time a migraine headache, while she waits and waits along with the other little children because of doctor shortages,” he said. Poilievre vowed that if his party was in power he’d work with the provinces to allow more qualified immigrants to practice medicine, more quickly.

“It is true that Canadians are hurting, but it is our job as the Official Opposition to turn that hurt into hope. To inspire people that a real improvement in their lives is possible, that the dream that brought them here as immigrants or the dream with which they were raised when they were born here, can be rekindled,” Poilievre said. “That is our purpose my friends.” (CTV) 

 

Wednesday July 27, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday July 27, 2022

‘I love this city’: Former Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath enters Hamilton mayoral race

March 30, 2022

After weeks of speculation, Andrea Horwath is making it official.

Ontario’s former NDP leader is running for mayor of Hamilton.

“I’ve decided to jump in the race because I love this city. I always have,” she said.

“It’s the place where I get my passion from, and I’ve spent my whole life fighting for and working for Hamiltonians.”

Horwath, 59, makes it a three-way contest between main mayoral contenders Bob Bratina and Keanin Loomis.