Obit – mackaycartoons

Tuesday December 31, 2024

December 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 31, 2024

2024 Year In Review

The year 2024 will be remembered as a time of seismic shifts, stirring triumphs, and somber farewells. Canada and the United States were no strangers to tumult and transformation as they navigated an unrelenting tide of political, economic, and cultural change.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Canada

In Canada, political gridlock and public dissatisfaction loomed large. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced sagging poll numbers, with voters increasingly frustrated by the affordability crisis and the government’s handling of homelessness and opioid addiction. The Bank of Canada’s vacillation on interest rates did little to inspire confidence, as Canadians grappled with rising living costs. Trudeau’s Liberal government was further destabilized by the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, sparking speculation that Mark Carney might step into the role of Finance Minister to steady the ship. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre surged in popularity with his populist promise to “Axe the Tax” on carbon, galvanizing his base as the nation braced for the possibility of a federal election. Jagmeet Singh’s NDP also remained a vocal advocate for addressing the homelessness crisis, though with limited sway in the gridlocked Parliament.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Ontario

In provincial news, Doug Ford’s government in Ontario continued to stir controversy, from banning cell phones in schools to prioritizing a spa at Ontario Place over environmental and community concerns. His ban on new bike lanes raised eyebrows and underscored his contentious approach to urban planning. Natural disasters compounded the nation’s woes, with Alberta and British Columbia ravaged by wildfires and catastrophic flooding, and Hurricane Beryl leaving a trail of destruction in Atlantic Canada. The Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster in Baltimore added another tragic chapter to the year’s challenges. Amid these struggles, Canadians found moments of unity and pride. Swimmer Summer McIntosh shone at the Paris Olympics, earning accolades for her record-breaking performances and bringing a glimmer of hope to a weary nation after the drone spying scandal that plagued the women’s soccer team. The Canadian men’s Olympic relay team delivered a stunning gold medal victory, reaffirming Canada’s athletic prowess on the world stage. Taylor Swift’s blockbuster Eras Tour concerts in Toronto and Vancouver not only dazzled fans but also injected millions into local economies. Meanwhile, the LCBO and Canada Post strikes further tested Canadians’ patience, highlighting labour issues in critical sectors.

News: 2024: Year in Review

Graeme Gallery 2024: Trump

In the United States, the political landscape was dominated by the dramatic return of Donald Trump, whose re-election campaign survived legal woes and even an assassination attempt. His audacious proposals, including imposing 25% tariffs and floating the idea of a 51st state, polarized the nation. Figures like J.D. Vance and Matt Gaetz played pivotal roles in rallying support for Trump, while Kash Patel emerged as a key confidant during the campaign sealing the deal for a controversial appointment to FBI director. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy faltered, overshadowed by the waning presence of President Joe Biden, whose poignant farewell address included a call for unity and resilience. As the year closed, the transition period buzzed with speculation, fuelled by Trump’s unconventional nomination suggestions, including Pete Hegseth and Elon Musk, whose political influence grew exponentially. RFK Jr. also made headlines with his independent candidacy, challenging the traditional two-party dominance.

What a headline!

Globally, the year was marked by ongoing conflict and pivotal leadership changes. The war in Ukraine entered its 1,000th day, with President Zelenskyy signalling readiness for peace talks, even as Vladimir Putin remained steadfast in his ambitions. In the Middle East, the war between Israel and Gaza expanded, pulling in Iran and Hezbollah, while the Assad regime in Syria finally crumbled. Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership in Israel was both a rallying point and a subject of intense global scrutiny. Sudan’s internal strife and Haiti’s descent into lawlessness further underscored a world in turmoil. In Europe, Keir Starmer’s election as UK Prime Minister signalled a shift in British politics, and France faced its own critical elections, reshaping its political landscape, while in Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the nation’s first female president. The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris provided a poignant symbol of resilience amidst the chaos.

The world also bid farewell to towering figures. Canada mourned the loss of Brian Mulroney and Murray Sinclair, while the U.S. grieved for Jimmy Carter. The arts lost luminaries such as Maggie Smith, Alice Munro, James Earl Jones, and Quincy Jones, leaving behind legacies that will endure for generations.

News: Year in review: Notable people who died in 2024

Among the more unusual figures to capture the public’s imagination was Luigi Mangione, a notorious criminal convicted of killing a private health executive. Despite his heinous crime, Mangione garnered a bizarre social media cult following, with supporters romanticizing his actions as a misguided rebellion against systemic injustices in healthcare.

Amid these heavy moments, there were sparks of joy and cultural milestones. Glen Powell and Anna Sawai captivated audiences with standout performances, while athletes like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles rewrote the history books. Canada celebrated its own cultural moments with the continued rise of emerging artists and a significant presence in global cinema, spearheaded by the Toronto International Film Festival’s record-breaking attendance. Breakout musical acts like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter gave the world its soundtrack, and viral moments like the “Dancing with the Stars” leg lift brought levity to the digital age. The cinematic triumph of “Oppenheimer,” crowned with multiple Oscars, reminded audiences of the enduring power of storytelling.

1997: The year that was

As 2025 dawns, the world holds its breath. Canada may be on the cusp of a federal election, with Pierre Poilievre poised to challenge Trudeau’s grip on power. In the U.S., Trump’s second term could see dramatic shifts in domestic and international policy, from sweeping trade changes to potential statehood ambitions. Figures like Tim Walz are expected to play a crucial role in mediating partisan divides, while AI and space exploration may see further breakthroughs with Musk’s continued investments. Global conflicts could de-escalate—or intensify—depending on fragile negotiations in Ukraine and the Middle East. The rise of AI, which integrated seamlessly into daily life in 2024, might accelerate in unexpected ways, reshaping industries and personal lives alike.

Climate scientists are predicting another year of extreme weather, but advances in renewable energy and sustainability may offer glimmers of hope. And who knows? With Elon Musk’s influence continuing to grow, perhaps Mars colonization will take its first tangible steps in 2025.

The year ahead promises to be as unpredictable as ever, with moments of brilliance and hardship intertwined. If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that resilience and innovation remain humanity’s most powerful tools. Here’s to the adventures—and challenges—that 2025 will bring.

As I put the finishing touches on my year-end illustration for the Hamilton Spectator, I find myself reflecting on what 2024 has brought us. It’s a great honour to have the A1 assignment for the final edition, especially after 28 years as an editorial cartoonist. However, I can’t help but feel a bittersweet twinge, given the uncertain future of print media.

This year has been marked by political upheaval, economic struggles, and cultural milestones that remind us just how unpredictable our times can be. In Canada, we witnessed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grappling with rising living costs and public frustration, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made waves with his populist promises. Doug Ford’s controversial decisions in Ontario added to the mix, sparking debates on everything from urban planning to environmental concerns.

On the other side of the border, Donald Trump’s dramatic return to the political stage kept everyone on their toes, overshadowing Joe Biden and raising questions about the future of American politics. Meanwhile, global crises continued to unfold, leaving many of us feeling a mix of concern and urgency.

But amidst all the chaos, there were moments of unity and pride. Athletes like Summer McIntosh and events like Taylor Swift’s concerts brought joy and a sense of hope to a weary nation. It’s these glimmers of light that I tried to capture in my illustration, weaving in Easter eggs and references for those who still cherish the print version of the newspaper.

As we look ahead to 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Will Canada face a federal election? How will Trump’s second term unfold?

While the future feels uncertain, one thing is clear: resilience and creativity will be our guiding lights. Here’s to embracing the adventures and challenges that the new year will undoubtedly bring!

Wishing you all a wonderful start to 2025!

Enjoy the December 31, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday or Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Wednesday May 22, 2024

May 22, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 22, 2024

Ebrahim Raisi’s Demise: Justice for Victims, but No End to Oppression in Iran

April 6, 2024

The recent demise of Ebrahim Raisi, often dubbed “the Butcher of Tehran,” has sparked a mix of emotions across the globe. For many, it serves as a form of comeuppance for the countless murders and atrocities inflicted upon innocent people during his tenure as a key figure in Iran’s oppressive regime. However, we must also recognize that his death does not mark the end of the suffering endured by the Iranian people under the rule of the Islamic Republic.

Raisi’s legacy is stained with blood, stemming from his alleged involvement in the mass execution of political prisoners in 1988. As part of a “death commission,” he played a pivotal role in carrying out the orders of Ayatollah Khomeini to purge Iran’s jails of dissidents. Thousands of lives were unjustly extinguished under his watch, leaving families shattered and communities scarred.

Furthermore, Raisi’s leadership during the investigation into the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 in 2020 only added to his legacy of injustice. By absolving the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of any wrongdoing, he perpetuated a culture of impunity within the Iranian government, denying closure and justice to the families of the victims.

Opinion: Do not weep for the Butcher of Tehran

October 18, 2022

His ascent to the presidency in 2021 sent shockwaves through the international community, highlighting the resilience of a system built on oppression and fear. Despite widespread condemnation and calls for accountability, Raisi remained defiant, openly proclaiming pride in his actions and vowing to defend the regime at any cost.

Tragically, Raisi’s demise came in the form of a helicopter crash in Iran’s Eastern Azerbaijan region on May 19, 2024. The crash, which occurred in a fog-shrouded mountainous area, claimed the lives of all nine individuals on board, including Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.

While some may view this as a twist of fate or a stroke of karma, it does little to alleviate the pain and suffering inflicted upon countless individuals by his ruthless regime.

December 18, 2020

While his demise may bring a sense of relief to some, we must not lose sight of the harsh reality that awaits the Iranian people. Raisi’s replacement, likely to emerge from the same ruthless governing structure, offers little hope for meaningful change or reform. The machinery of oppression that has plagued Iran for decades continues to operate unabated, casting a dark shadow over the country’s future.

As we reflect on the downfall of Ebrahim Raisi, let us remember the countless victims whose lives were cut short by his tyranny. Let us stand in solidarity with the Iranian people as they strive for freedom, justice, and dignity in the face of adversity. And let us remain vigilant in holding accountable those who perpetuate oppression and deny basic human rights to their own citizens. (AI)

Thursday May 16, 2024

May 16, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 16, 2024

Alice Munro (1931 – 2024)

Alice Munro, the Nobel Prize-winning author renowned for her exceptional storytelling abilities, passed away at the age of 92. Throughout her prolific career, Munro captivated readers with her poignant portrayal of the emotional lives of girls and women, leaving behind a lasting legacy in literature.

News: Alice Munro, Canadian author who won Nobel Prize for Literature, dies at 92

May 8, 2014

Sandra Martin’s piece in The Globe and Mail reflects on Munro’s transformative impact on the literary world. Munro’s ability to pack insight, nuance, and suspense into a few pages was unparalleled, earning her international acclaim and numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2013. Martin highlights Munro’s dedication to her craft, which persisted despite personal challenges, emphasizing her resilience and determination as an artist.

Munro’s profound connection to her small-town upbringing, as articulated in her conversations with Daphne Merkin, allowed her to infuse her stories with a universal appeal that resonated across time and place. Martin underscores Munro’s refusal to conform to societal expectations, which enabled her to craft narratives that delved into the complexities of human relationships with authenticity and honesty.

The editorial from The Toronto Star further celebrates Munro’s legacy, portraying her as a master of the short story form whose work transcended geographical and temporal boundaries. Munro’s stories, deeply rooted in the landscapes and lives of ordinary people, offered profound insights into the human condition, capturing the joys, sorrows, and complexities of life and relationships.

Editorial: Alice Munro found in Ontario a world as rich as any in literature

May 3, 2023

Both pieces highlight Munro’s ability to say more in a few pages than most novelists could in entire books, a testament to her mastery of the short story form. Munro’s clean prose, layered with nuance and empathy, explored the depths of the human heart, inviting readers to confront their own truths and vulnerabilities.

Moreover, Munro’s personal journey, from her humble beginnings in Wingham, Ontario, to receiving the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2013, serves as an inspiration. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her daughter and battles with dementia, Munro remained committed to her craft, producing fourteen bestselling collections over her career. Her ability to find beauty and meaning in everyday experiences, as well as her keen insight into the complexities of human relationships, cemented her status as one of the greatest fiction writers in English literature.

In sum, Alice Munro’s contributions to literature have left an indelible mark, characterized by her exceptional storytelling abilities and her profound understanding of the human experience. As readers continue to revisit her works, Munro’s stories will endure, offering solace, insight, and inspiration for generations to come. (AI)

Saturday March 2, 2024

March 2, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 2, 2024

R.I.P. Brian Mulroney

Mocking the mocker, me, as depicted by fellow cartoonist Michael de Adder from 2002.

In the day following the death of a past Prime Minister I came of age to, I’d like to acknowledge the personal connection and admiration I have for him, a sentiment tinged with a sense of atonement as an editorial cartoonist who has spent decades skewering politicians, with Mulroney being one of my enduring satirical targets. While some editorial cartoonists relentlessly skewer politicians, even in the wake of their death, the humanist in me requires the occasion to be drawn in the form of a tribute for public service.

January 13, 2024

Pearly gates cartoons, often deemed clichéd, present an irresistible temptation for editorial cartoonists, who, despite mockingly acknowledging the trope, find it difficult to resist utilizing this well-worn comedic device when commemorating the passing of famous individuals. In my recent editorial cartoon, I navigated this trope by revisiting Canada’s pivotal federal election of 1984 within a celestial backdrop. I incorporated the infamous “I have no option” phrase uttered by Liberal leader John Turner during the heated great leaders debate, responding to Brian Mulroney’s inquiry about Turner’s approval of numerous patronage appointments made by his predecessor, Pierre Trudeau, just before Trudeau’s exit after 16 years in office. In my cartoon, this historical dialogue becomes a comical punchline in the afterlife, where the reunited leaders—Turner, Mulroney, and the recently deceased Ed Broadbent—share a jovial moment under the head caption “Disagreeing without being disagreeable.”

The Globe & Mail: Brian Mulroney, the last great prime minister

September 23, 2022

This celestial scene intentionally contrasts with a contemporary earthly tableau, depicting the present federal party leaders engaged in an uncivilized punch-up, spewing insults, vulgarities, and accusations. The dust ball featuring the heads of current leaders serves as a stark visual representation of the disagreeable nature of contemporary political discourse, creating which I hope might be a thought-provoking commentary on the evolution of political dialogue over time.

Returning to my personal connection with Mulroney, despite the polarizing opinions surrounding his name, I’ve always held a soft spot for him. My interest in politics began around the same time Mulroney was running for the leadership of the PC party. Growing up with Pierre Trudeau as the leader, there was a sense of fatigue and a hope for a fresh face in Canadian politics. Mulroney’s youth, charisma, and optimism appealed to me and millions of other Canadians, leading to his party’s historic majority government in 1984.

The Toronto Star: ‘Mr. Mulroney never stopped working for Canadians’: Former prime minister’s death prompts outpouring of reflection

July 16, 1998

Throughout Mulroney’s tenure, I closely followed his successes and failures, viewing it as a case study during my years of interest in political science. I vividly remember the smaller scandal stories involving his problem cabinet ministers like Bob Coates, in change Canada’s Defence who had a penchant for visiting strip joints on foreign missions; John Fraser in charge of Fisheries and forced to quit over the infamous ‘Tunagate”; Suzanne Blais-Grenier, a low level minister whose spendy ways led to her removal; and Sinclair Stevens worn down and disgraced by a scandal over business holdings that lead to charges of a conflict of interest that he was years later cleared of. Mulroney’s team spawned many personalities who went on to greater fame, in particular, a NL Lieutenant-Governor in John Crosbie, and Premiers of Quebec, Lucien Bouchard, and Jean Charest. There were several other heavyweights in Mulroney’s cabinet who already had honed executive skills, like former PC leader Joe Clark, and brighter members from his team like Flora MacDonald (Canada’s first female Foreign Minister), Perrin Beatty (later head of the CBC), Michael Wilson (later ambassador to the USA), Ray Hnatyshyn (later Governor-General), Erik Neisen (the crusty brother of comedian Leslie – how cool I thought that was), former Toronto mayor David Crombie, and even an old Diefenbaker Minister George Hees. Check the list below to see how it’s all turned out for Mulroney’s first cabinet (…and for the really nerdy politics buffs, check up on Pierre Trudeau’s cabinet where are they now feature.)

It became evident that regardless of cabinet or his own actions, Brian Mulroney would always be despised by a certain sector of the population. Some criticize him for issues like the GST, selling out Canada to free trade, or the Airbus affair. I distinctly recall the ire he raised for daring to wear Gucci shoes, a bit of ostentation that pales by comparison to that which is on display by politicians of the present. That, and paper bags full of cash will be the only defining tokens of Mulroney’s legacy. However, others, including myself, recognize his early understanding of and actions against climate change, as well as his influential relationships with Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, which played a crucial role in pressuring the apartheid regime in South Africa.

December 10, 2013

In retrospect, considering the Prime Ministers who followed him, Mulroney’s achievements stand out, and his dedication to the betterment of the country is evident in his legacy. It’s difficult for many Canadians to let go of their allegiances to one Prime Minister while despising the other. However, both Mulroney and Pierre Trudeau left significant legacies for the country. Trudeau gave Canada the Charter of Rights, and Mulroney brought forth free trade. Both had their successes and failures on the economic front and impacted national unity. Decades before Justin Trudeau proclaimed himself the “feminist Prime Minister” and prioritized elevating women to his cabinet, Brian Mulroney quietly and significantly surpassed his predecessor Trudeau by shattering the glass ceiling, achieving a notable increase in female representation well beyond the initial two appointed by Pierre Trudeau.

15yr old me on the right

I met Mulroney a couple of times. My first encounter was at a rally in 1984 when I was just a nerdy 15 years old. Myself a few friends rode our bicycles across Hamilton to catch a glimpse of him. He exuded the same charm and charisma that I had seen in newspapers and on TV. I shook his hand, had a group photo taken, and listened to his speech about unemployment and the deficit. It was an inspiration to witness firsthand.

The New York Times: Brian Mulroney, Prime Minister Who Led Canada Into NAFTA, Dies at 84

Years later, in 2007, I attended a talk and book signing session by Mulroney. He looked good and spoke about his life with his familiar self-deprecating humour and blarney. These experiences further solidified my respect for him.

During my post-secondary school years in Ottawa, I studied political science and had a front-row seat to the theatre of politics, with the Peace Tower visible from my residence window. It was during this time that Brian Mulroney was in charge, and I often observed the behind-the-scenes dynamics during question period from the visitors’ gallery. Before fading from memory, there stood a determined lone protester who, for years, positioned himself daily near the limo drop-off area at the western corner of the Centre Block on Parliament Hill during Question Period, passionately shouting phrases such as “Lyin’ Brian” and “impeach Mulroney” at the top of his lungs. I know there’s a recorded name and back story to that persistent fellow, but from what I can’t see, it seems to elude the Internet.

The very first Alas & Alack, Sept 1989

In those years, I also drew a cartoon strip called Alas & Alack, which featured Mulroney and his cabinet in a medieval monarchical system. It was a lighthearted way to satirize and comment on the political landscape at the time.

As I grew older and worked as an editorial cartoonist, I saw Mulroney stumble with the Airbus affair but also witnessed his efforts to repair his legacy. He continued to advise and inspire politicians, including his own daughter Caroline, who sits in the cabinet in Ontario.

Looking back on Brian Mulroney’s legacy, it is clear that he was a giant in Canadian history. While opinions may differ on his achievements and shortcomings, there is no denying the impact he had on the country. It may be a long time before we see leaders like Mulroney and Trudeau again, and their legacies will continue to shape Canada for generations to come.

Chronology of my Mulroney cartoons

May 18, 2022 – Battle of the Conservatives: Jean Charest leads the Mulroney forces while Poilievre leads the Harper forces

September 14, 2018 – Brian Mulroney blames Justin’s dad for Ontario Progressive Conservative leadership hopeful behaviour

February 3, 2018 – Caroline Mulroney is overshadowed by dad’s legacy preservation efforts

December 3, 2015 – Rona Ambrose receives advice on how to attract progressives

August 25, 2015 – Crowned Canadian Prime Ministers features insulated Stephen Harper

December 10, 2013 – Stephen Harper and former Prime Ministers unite for Nelson Mandela memorial

July 15, 2009* – Jean Chretien sweeps Queen Elizabeth off her feet to much head scratching from the Prime Ministers club

May 22, 2009* – Brian Mulroney leaves public life a la Richard Nixon

May 14, 2009* – Ruby Dhalla’s testimony is more popular than Brian Mulroney’s

May 12, 2009* – Brian Mulroney and Karlheinz Schreiber do battle…again

April 10, 2009* – Ignatieff Easter Bunny has treats for Mulroney, but not Harper

April 7, 2009 – Stephen Harper is pinned by Mulroney statue after reform attempt

December 14, 2007* – Jean Chretien and Brian Mulroney have inverted statues

December 12, 2007* – House Ethics Committee ready for Brian Mulroney

December 5, 2007* – Karlheinz Schreiber celebrated as much as Brian Mulroney hated

November 29, 2007* – Karlheinz Schreiber to give hard-hitting testimony

November 15, 2007* – Brian Mulroney on bottom of investigation pile-on

November 14, 2007* – The Brian Mulroney $300,000 bank note

November 12, 2007* – Brian Mulroney is considered a bio-hazard

November 6, 2007* – Brian Mulroney, King Tut, and crumbling legacies

November 12, 2007* – Stephen Harper unzips mouth to announce review of Mulroney allegations

September 7, 2007 – Not So Great Debates: Brian Mulroney vs. Pierre E. Trudeau

March 18, 2006* – Where Former Prime Ministers go to retire

April 22, 2005 – Prime Ministerial addresses and their own ‘National Circus’

August 11, 2003* – Brian Mulroney considers crossing burnt bridge to USA for BSE talks

December 11, 2002 – NAFTA at 10 years old

June 13, 2000 – Mulroney drives through Joe Clark’s effort to rebuild the old Progressive Conservative Party

July 10, 1998 – Alan Eagleson awarding Mulroney the Order of Canada

June 16, 1998 – The appointment of Brian Mulroney as a Companion of the Order of Canada

November 19, 1997 – The RCMP terrorizing Mulroney

(* link to old website)

24th Canadian Ministry – Who’s still kicking around, and who’s not…As of March 2, 2024

Brian Mulroney (1938-2024): Prime Minister

George Hees (1910-1996): Veterans affairs; MP, 1950-88; Diefenbaker cabinet minister

Duff Roblin (1917-2010): Senate Government Leader, Manitoba Premier 1958-67

Joe Clark (b.1939): External Affairs; fmr. PM ; fmr. PC leader 1998-2003

Flora MacDonald (1926-2015): Employment & Immigration

Erik Nielsen (1924-2008): Deputy PM, Privy Council President; MP, 1957-87; brother of comedian Leslie Nielsen

John Crosbie (1931-2020): Justice, Attorney-General; NL Lieu. Gov. 2008-13

Roch LaSalle (1928-2007): Public Works

Don Mazankowski (1935-2020): Transport

Elmer MacKay (b.1936): Solicitor General; Father to Peter MacKay; fmr. PC leader

Jake Epp (b.1939): Health & Welfare

John Fraser (b.1931): Fisheries & Oceans

Sinclair Stevens (1927-2016): Regional Industrial Expansion

John Wise (1935-2013): Agriculture

Ray Hnatyshyn (1934-2002): Government House Leader; Governor-General

David Crombie (b.1936): Indian Affairs, Northern Development

Robert René de Cotret (1944-1999): Treasury Board

Perrin Beatty (b.1950): Revenue; Pres. CEO CBC

Michael Wilson (1937-2019): Finance; Cdn Ambassador to USA 2006-09

Robert Coates (1928-2016): Defence; MP 1957-88

Jack Murta (b.1943): Multiculturalism

Harvie Andre (1940-2012): Supply & Services

Otto Jelinek (b.1940): Fitness & Amateur Sport

Tom Siddon (b.1941): Science & Technology

Charles Mayer (b.1936): Wheat Board

Bill McKnight (1940-2019): Labour

Walter McLean (b.1936): Secretary of State

Tom McMillan (b.1945): Tourism

Pat Carney (1935-2023): Energy; Senator 1990-2008

André Bissonnette (b.1945): Small Business

Suzanne Blais-Grenier (1936-2017): Environment

Benoit Bouchard (b.1940): Minister of State for Transport

Andrée Champagne (1939-2020): Youth

Michel Côté (b.1942): Consumer & Corporate Affairs

James Kelleher (1930-2013): International Trade

Bob Layton (1925-2002): Mines; Father to fmr NDP leader Jack Layton

Marcel Masse (1936-2014): Communications

Barbara McDougall (b.1937): Minister of State for Finance

Gerald Merrithew (1931-2004): Forestry

Monique Vézina (b.1935): External Relations

Saturday January 13, 2024

January 13, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday January 13, 2024

Ed Broadbent: A Progressive Trailblazer and Unseen Prime Minister

March 20, 2012

In the intricate narrative of Canadian politics, Ed Broadbent emerges as a consequential figure, often referred to as one of the greatest Prime Ministers Canada never had. His leadership, spanning over two decades at the helm of the New Democratic Party (NDP), reshaped the political landscape, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends the traditional boundaries of partisan lines.

While Ed Broadbent may not have ascended to the office of Prime Minister, his influence on Canadian politics is immeasurable. A stalwart champion of progressive ideals, Broadbent’s leadership was characterized by a commitment to justice, equality, and the welfare of everyday Canadians. His moniker, “Honest Ed,” was not merely a political branding but a reflection of a leader whose integrity and genuine concern for the average citizen set him apart.

Opinion: Ed Broadbent fought for the little guy against the fat cats

August 28, 1999

Born in the union-oriented, blue-collar city of Oshawa, Broadbent’s political journey was informed by the struggles and aspirations of working-class Canadians. Unlike some political leaders who speak of equality from a distance, Broadbent lived it. His dedication to fighting for justice and equality, both within Canada and globally, underscored his unwavering principles.

Broadbent’s leadership of the NDP marked a transformative era for the party. Moving it further to the left, he played a pivotal role in establishing the NDP as a viable alternative for voters disillusioned by the traditional Liberal and Conservative options. His impact was not merely political; it was a testament to his ability to connect with Canadians from diverse backgrounds, understanding and articulating their hopes and concerns.

The 1984 election showcased Broadbent’s political prowess, with the NDP winning a historic number of seats. His popularity in the mid-1980s, consistently ahead of both Liberal Leader John Turner and Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in polls, reflected the trust Canadians placed in his vision for a fairer and more compassionate Canada.

Obituary: Former NDP leader Ed Broadbent dead at 87

December 20, 2003

Broadbent’s resignation in 1989 marked not an exit from public life but a transition. In his emotional farewell speech, he urged the NDP to find a new leader to “take us the next step towards building that decent, exciting, and compassionate Canada we all believe in.” His post-political career was marked by a return to politics in 2004, involvement in coalition negotiations in 2008, and the establishment of the Broadbent Institute—a testament to his enduring commitment to social democracy.

As we reflect on Ed Broadbent’s legacy, we recognize him not merely as a champion of the average Canadian but as a visionary in the pantheon of Progressive Canadians. His name stands alongside other luminaries who have shaped the course of Canadian politics, influencing the nation’s journey toward a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society. Though he may not have worn the title of Prime Minister, Ed Broadbent’s impact on the progressive ideals that define Canada remains both tangible and enduring. (AI)