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Parliament

Wednesday May 28 2025

May 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

After the King's Speech, Prime Minister Mark Carney faces the challenge of transforming ceremonial signalling into actionable governance amidst political complexities.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 28 2025

Mark Carney’s Political Odyssey: From Throne to the Meat Grinder

King Charles III's visit to Canada underscores the country's sovereignty and distinct identity amid geopolitical tensions with the U.S.

May 27 2025

As the echoes of King Charles III’s speech from the throne fade, the real work begins for Prime Minister Mark Carney. The ceremonial grandeur, with its evocation of pride and unity, serves as a poignant reminder of Canada’s rich heritage and potential. Yet, it is Carney who must now navigate the intricate dynamics of political governance, a task fraught with challenges that test his leadership and resolve.

Carney’s entry into politics was heralded with optimism, a promise of fiscal prudence and economic acumen drawn from his tenure as a central banker. His vision for a “one Canadian economy” aims to dismantle interprovincial trade barriers and foster unity—a testament to his strategic foresight in addressing the fragmented Canadian market. However, the transition from economic theory to political practice is fraught with complexities, especially for a leader at the nadir of his popularity, steering a minority government through turbulent waters.

News: ‘The True North is indeed strong and free,’ King Charles III says in speech

Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.

April 12, 2025

The political landscape Carney faces is a veritable minefield. His ambitious agenda, from tax cuts to fast-tracking infrastructure projects, requires not just parliamentary approval but also the confidence of a wary public. The Liberals’ minority status means every decision is subject to intense scrutiny and negotiation. The throne speech, while rich in vision, must withstand the crucible of parliamentary debate, where support from other parties is imperative to avoid a government collapse.

Adding to Carney’s challenges is the spectre of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose rhetoric and policies pose direct threats to Canadian sovereignty and economic stability. Trump’s proposition of Canada as the 51st state, though politically implausible, underscores the pressure on Carney to assert Canada’s independence on the world stage. The negotiation of a new economic and security relationship with the U.S. is not just a policy priority but a defining moment for Carney’s leadership.

Further complicating Carney’s path are the anxious premiers and voters, impatient for the realization of election promises. The pledge to create a stronger economy, cut taxes, and enhance infrastructure resonates with a populace eager for tangible improvements. Yet, the execution of these promises requires navigating provincial dynamics and managing expectations—a task that demands both diplomacy and decisiveness.

News: Carney tells MPs to brace for ‘very, very busy’ few weeks as Parliament reopens

Canada's hockey win over the USA becomes a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience amidst political tensions with Trump.

February 22, 2025

Despite these obstacles, Carney’s leadership offers a unique promise. His background as a central banker brings a disciplined fiscal approach, essential for steering Canada through economic transformation. The emphasis on reducing trade barriers and fostering global partnerships reflects a forward-thinking strategy aimed at positioning Canada as a robust player in a changing global economy.

In this critical juncture, Carney’s ability to transform vision into action will define his legacy. The symbolism of the King’s speech may offer inspiration, but it is Carney’s pragmatic governance that will ultimately determine Canada’s trajectory. As he dives into the political meat grinder, Carney must harness his expertise, rally support, and navigate the challenges with unwavering resolve. The road ahead is daunting, yet it is also ripe with opportunity—a chance for Carney to imprint his stamp on Canada’s future.


A Return to Stability – Wednesday May 28 2025

The recent visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla has marked a significant chapter in Canada’s history, arriving at a crucial time following a six-month power vacuum. This period was a direct result of the previous Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau’s, tenure, characterized by a certain hubris that left a notable impact on the country’s political landscape. During this vacuum, Canada’s stability was further tested by external pressures, notably from President Donald Trump’s provocative rhetoric about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state of the United States.

The royal visit, though brief, was a masterful exercise in symbolism. The King’s words, “As the anthem reminds us, the True North is indeed strong and free,” resonated deeply with Canadians, reinforcing the strength and independence of the nation. The King’s Speech not only emphasized unity and resilience but also served as a reminder of the enduring ties and shared heritage that bind the Commonwealth.

In a poignant moment, former Prime Minister (aka power vacuum-man) Justin Trudeau made his first public appearance since leaving office, seated alongside prominent figures like Stephen Harper and Kim Campbell (some great photos through the link.) His presence highlighted the political shifts and challenges faced in recent months, underscoring a moment of reflection and renewal.

Despite the unsettling nature of Trump’s continued rhetoric and his golden dome dream, Canada seems to be on the right track. The new leadership, represented by figures like Mark Carney, faces significant challenges ahead. Carney, with his wealth of experience, is poised to tackle the economic and political issues that lie ahead, guiding Canada through this transitional period.

In what commentators have declared the King’s Speech a message for one, it didn’t take long for the toddler-in-chief to react.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, President Trump took to Truth Social at the end of the day to share a message that contradicted reassurances previously given by the U.S. Ambassador to Canada. Trump stated that he had proposed a deal to Canada concerning a “Golden Dome System,” claiming that the system would cost Canada $61 billion to remain independent, but would be free if they chose to become the 51st U.S. state.

According to Trump, Canada was considering this proposition, a statement that diverges sharply from diplomatic reassurances and further complicates the delicate diplomatic landscape.

So much for Pete Hoekstra’s assurance that the annexation saga is over. It’s not, because his boss is a pull string doll.

In essence, the royal visit and the King’s Speech have added another chapter to Canada’s story, reinforcing the values that define and unite the nation amid external challenges and internal transitions. The new leadership, represented by figures like Mark Carney, faces significant challenges ahead. Carney, with his wealth of experience, is poised to tackle the economic and political issues that lie ahead, guiding Canada through this transitional period.

Hopefully, we’re almost to stability. Hopefully we’re done with the theatre – though that’s very wishful thinking.

This is posted to SUBSTACK. Please consider subscribing.

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-10, Canada, Carney, challenges, Donald Trump, Economy, King, King Charles III, leadership, Mark Carney, meat grinder, Minority, Parliament, promises, sovereignty, Substack, Trade, unity

Tuesday January 27, 2025

January 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The final report on foreign interference in Canada reveals serious threats from various nations, yet it's the economic pressures from Trump's policies that unexpectedly drive Canada's political focus.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday January 27, 2025

Canada’s Political Landscape Amidst Foreign Meddling and Economic Pressures

The lack of transparency and accountability in addressing allegations of foreign interference in Canadian politics, particularly regarding MPs who may have been witting or clueless collaborators, risks eroding public trust, with concerns raised about potential partisanship influencing responses, particularly within the Liberal Party.

June 12, 2024

In recent years, the investigation into foreign meddling in Canada has been a critical endeavour, aimed at safeguarding our democracy from covert influences by nations such as China, Russia, Iran, India, and Pakistan. This comprehensive inquiry, culminating in a final report, has uncovered a series of alarming activities that threaten the integrity of Canada’s political system.

China has been implicated in sophisticated espionage operations, employing cyber tactics to infiltrate Canadian political institutions. Allegations of interference in elections, along with harassment of Chinese-Canadian communities, underscore the pervasive nature of their influence.

News: Hogue inquiry final report to propose measures against election interference and disinformation

Canada faces an alarming new threat as far-right influencers, allegedly funded by Russian operatives, use propaganda to radicalize citizens, sow division, and undermine democracy, posing a form of ideological homegrown terrorism.

September 10, 2024

Russia’s notorious disinformation campaigns have aimed to destabilize Western democracies, including Canada. Efforts to support specific political candidates and sow division through social media manipulation illustrate their broader strategy of influence. The presence of Russian double agents within Canadian institutions further complicates our security landscape.

Iran’s activities include targeted cyber attacks and harassment of Iranian-Canadian activists and politicians. These actions reflect the Iranian regime’s broader attempt to silence opposition voices abroad, extending their reach into Canada.

India faces accusations related to its handling of the Sikh diaspora in Canada, with allegations of surveillance and intimidation against those advocating for Sikh independence. Such actions have strained Canada-India relations, challenging Canada’s diplomatic balance.

Pakistan has been linked to efforts to influence Canadian politics through diaspora networks and espionage activities, highlighting the challenges of managing bilateral relations while safeguarding national security.

Irwin Cotler’s experience with Iranian harassment underscores Canada’s urgent need to counter foreign interference and safeguard its democracy, especially as Trump’s renewed focus on Iran creates a critical moment for action.

November 21, 2024

These activities are not merely abstract threats; they have tangible impacts on Canada’s political fabric. The presence of double agents, some of whom have held or currently hold positions within Canada’s Parliament, illustrates the potential for compromised decision-making at the highest levels. Incidents of harassment and assassination plots against politicians and activists add to the gravity of the situation.

However, just as we were poised to digest these findings, an overt foreign influence from an unexpected source has emerged, overshadowing this vital investigation. Since Donald Trump’s re-election victory in November 2024, Canada has faced an unprecedented challenge from our southern neighbour. His aggressive economic policies, particularly the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, have turned our political agenda on its head.

As Canada delves into an inquiry on foreign interference, the parallels between Pierre Poilievre and Donald Trump, including their mutual distrust of institutions, the media, and their overblown characterization of opponents as criminals, raise questions about their impact on the political landscape as the elections approach.

January 30, 2024

This shift in focus is most evident in the recent resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. His departure has left a leadership vacuum at the federal level, triggering a Liberal leadership contest at a time when cohesive national strategy is desperately needed. With Trudeau’s absence, the federal government has struggled to maintain its previous commitments, including the abandonment of key initiatives like carbon pricing, as it scrambles to address the looming economic threat.

The gravity of the situation is underscored by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s decision to call a snap election. Ford’s move, aimed at securing a mandate to counteract Trump’s tariffs, reflects the urgency with which provincial leaders are responding to these external pressures. The economic stakes are high, particularly for Ontario’s vital automotive sector, which stands to suffer significantly from U.S. policies.

News: NDP MP Angus calls for investigation into Elon Musk over potential election interference

The convergence of Elon Musk’s influence over U.S. elections, Donald Trump’s authoritarian ambitions, and Vladimir Putin’s geopolitical agenda feels eerily like the unfolding of a real-life James Bond thriller, with democracy and global security hanging in the balance.

October 26, 2024

Adding to the complexity of the geopolitical landscape, Canadian MP Charlie Angus has raised concerns about Elon Musk’s influence on social media platforms, particularly in relation to the spread of misinformation and its potential impact on Canadian democracy. Angus argues that Musk’s control over these digital spaces could further complicate efforts to maintain the integrity of Canada’s political discourse.

This convergence of events raises pressing questions about Canada’s ability to navigate both covert and overt foreign influences. While the findings of the foreign meddling investigation remain essential for long-term democratic resilience, the immediate economic threats from the U.S. require swift and decisive action.

As we stand at this crossroads, it is imperative for Canadian leaders to balance these dual challenges. Strengthening our defences against covert interference must go hand-in-hand with robust economic strategies to protect our national interests. Only by addressing both dimensions can Canada ensure its sovereignty and stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.


Grab your popcorn and settle in because the drama unfolding on Parliament Hill is nothing short of a monster movie extravaganza. Picture this: towering over our iconic Canadian Parliament buildings, two colossal beasts are wreaking havoc, and they’ve got everyone in a frenzy.

First off, meet “Trumpzilla.” With the body of Godzilla and the unmistakable head of Donald Trump, he’s spewing fiery tariffs and trade threats that are setting the very ground around the Centre Block ablaze. You can almost hear the panicked cries of politicians scrambling to deal with the chaos—it’s a sight to behold, and not in a good way.

In the backdrop, swinging from the Peace Tower, is “King Elon.” Think King Kong but with Elon Musk’s head, casually disrupting social media and technology like it’s just another day at the office. He’s the wildcard in this tale, adding another layer of complexity to this already tumultuous scene.

Now, you might be thinking, “What about the serious stuff?” Indeed, there’s a crucial investigation into foreign meddling by bad actor nations like China, Russia, Iran, India, and Pakistan. This report has been years in the making, uncovering alarming activities such as assassinations, harassment of politicians, and double agents who’ve infiltrated our Parliament. It’s a big deal, no doubt about it.

But here’s the kicker: while our focus should be on these covert threats, Trumpzilla has barged in, flipping our democracy on its head. Since his election win in November, he’s dominated our domestic agenda, creating a leadership vacuum with Justin Trudeau’s resignation and a Liberal leadership contest. Carbon pricing? Abandoned. The spotlight is now on handling the impending Trump tariffs, which promise to send shockwaves through our economy, potentially leading to a recession.

Even Doug Ford has jumped into the fray, calling an early provincial snap election in Ontario to secure a mandate to fight these tariffs. It’s a scene straight out of a political thriller, with politicians running around like chickens with their heads cut off.

So there you have it—a spectacle of monstrous proportions. While the final report on foreign interference is crucial, the immediate threat from our southern neighbour has taken centre stage, leaving us to ponder the lasting effects on our jobs, businesses, and overall economic stability.

Please enjoy the January 27, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below.  Posts come out every 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. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-02, Canada, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, foreign interference, foreign meddling, godzilla, king kong, monster, Parliament, parody, Substack, USA

Thursday October 31, 2024

October 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Justin Trudeau, like a political zombie, refuses to depart, dragging his frightened followers toward electoral ruin as they lack the courage to put him down.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme’s MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday October 31, 2024

Zombie Trudeau: The Leader Who Refuses to Die

The federal government, led by Justin Trudeau, is making changes to its climate policy, which primarily benefit Atlantic Canada. These changes include increased rural rebates and exemptions for home heating oil from the carbon tax. This has generated mixed reactions and debates.

October 28, 2023

It’s Halloween season, and on Parliament Hill, the Liberals are living a nightmare. Their leader, Justin Trudeau, staggers forward like a political zombie—undead, unelected, and unwilling to depart. He lurches from caucus meeting to caucus meeting, dragging behind him the decaying remains of a once-powerful party. His followers, terrified but unable to escape, shuffle along in his wake, too paralyzed by fear to put him down.

Opinion: Liberal dissenters need to show some backbone

October 31, 2019

A letter demanding his resignation from 24 Liberal MPs was nothing more than a whimper in the wind. Trudeau let it pass, only to rise again the next day, grinning that ghastly, un-killable grin, proclaiming unity where none exists. Craig Wallace’s critique in The Hamilton Spectator slammed the MPs for their lack of courage, comparing them to bootlickers unwilling to lift the hammer of the Reform Act. Meanwhile, Campbell Clark in The Globe and Mail explained why Trudeau’s most feared foe is not Pierre Poilievre but a secret-ballot vote—where MPs, safely hidden in anonymity, might drive a stake through his leadership at last.

Opinion: Trudeau seeks to dodge the verdict of his own party

October 16, 2019

But this horror show lingers. Trudeau’s refusal to step aside leaves the Liberal caucus in a state of paralysis, wandering aimlessly, dragged toward electoral doom. Ministers insist the rebellion is over, but their words ring hollow, like survivors trying to convince themselves the monster won’t rise again. Every day that Trudeau clings to power, the Liberals rot from within, feeding the ravenous momentum of the Conservatives, waiting gleefully to feast on the remains. If MPs can’t muster the courage to take him down, they’ll shamble along beside him—another pack of the walking dead—until they all fall together, consumed by the inevitable.

Posted to SUBSTACK.  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. I’m not a fan of it’s presentation limits. Anyway, 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! – Graeme MacKay


The Halloween Gag

On Tuesday, I received two letters to the editor from readers who were offended by my recent editorial cartoon. It depicted 24 MPs seated in the back rows of the House of Commons, all wearing “F*ck Trudeau” t-shirts. This sentiment, which gained traction during the Freedom Convoy protests in Ottawa, has become a common refrain, visible on bumper stickers, flags fluttering on pickup trucks, and even hanging from front porches in neighbourhoods. Is it jarring? Yes. Is it offensive? Absolutely. Has it crystallized into a widespread sentiment against Justin Trudeau’s leadership? Without a doubt. Whether you love it or hate it, that’s the reality.

Interestingly, I can’t help but wonder: would those same readers voice their concerns about standards in a family newspaper if I depicted Donald Trump standing next to a toilet with a sign reading, “Flush twice if necessary”?

That was yesterday’s editorial cartoon.

It’s easy to deduce what I’m comparing Trump to.

The satire is clear, yet that piece generated no letters of protest.

As we approach Halloween, I anticipate that my upcoming portrayal of Justin Trudeau as a walking dead man will stir even more controversy. But let’s be honest—the editorial cartoon practically writes itself in this context. This isn’t the first time I’ve drawn zombies to represent politicians who have overstayed their welcome. I did it with Dalton McGuinty, and the depiction proved prophetic shortly thereafter. After Stephen Harper’s departure, I applied the zombie motif to a graveyard of Conservative candidates, all vying for leadership while clinging to outdated policies that contributed to Harper’s political demise. Here’s a graveyard version of note I drew in 2021.

This is the essence of what we editorial cartoonists do. Sometimes we have to lean on familiar gags when the opportunity arises, irrespective of which party holds power. Halloween, combined with a political crisis, equals satire. As the stars align, this Halloween 2024, it’s monster Justin Trudeau and his hesitant followers in the spotlight. And for those who find this distasteful, rest assured that when the pendulum swings, the ridicule will shift to your political adversaries.

In many ways, Justin Trudeau has become a political zombie, staggering through Parliament Hill, clinging to power, and dragging his party toward inevitable collapse. His MPs seem paralyzed, too afraid to leverage tools like the Reform Act or a secret-ballot vote that could finally end his leadership. Despite the growing dissent among his ranks, Trudeau brushes off their timid attempts to oust him, all while maintaining a facade of unity among his ministers. With each passing day that he clings to power, the Liberals sink further into decay, inadvertently strengthening the Conservatives. If these MPs can’t muster the courage to confront him, they may soon find themselves as doomed as the leader they fear to challenge.

This is the reality of our political landscape, and it is ripe for satire. Let’s embrace the humour and the critique—it’s what keeps our democracy vibrant.

– Graeme MacKay

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-19, Canada, graveyard, Halloween, Justin Trudeau, MP, Parliament, Pierre Poilievre, rebellion, revolt, Substack, zombie

Friday October 25, 2024

October 25, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

As the Trudeau government declines, personal grievances and internal fractures are surfacing among sidelined Liberal MPs, revealing a party consumed by its own infighting and struggling to survive a looming electoral defeat.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator (animated version, too) – Friday October 25, 2024

Trudeau’s Liberals Face the Inevitable Reckoning as the Party’s Inner Tensions Spill Out

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.

October 19, 2024

As the Trudeau government wanes, what we are witnessing within the Liberal Party is a familiar phenomenon: the surfacing of personal grievances, power struggles, and a desperate jostling for relevance among those who have long operated as little more than “bums in seats” or “trained seals.” These MPs, tasked primarily with voting as directed by the leadership and handling the mundane affairs of constituents, now see the grim reality of their political future unfolding. With Justin Trudeau’s popularity slipping and no longer able to carry the caucus on the strength of his coattails, many backbenchers—formerly comfortable in their irrelevance—are finding themselves at the mercy of a crumbling party machine.

News: Trudeau touts united party after MPs push for change in caucus meeting

November 9, 2021

Trudeau, who once vowed to change the culture of factionalism within the Liberal Party, now faces dissent not just from the opposition but from within his own caucus. The frustrations expressed by MPs like Sean Casey and Alexandra Mendes—who bluntly declared that the public is simply “tired of his face”—are only a sliver of the discontent festering inside a party that increasingly appears more focused on its own survival than on governing effectively. The recent ultimatum from 24 MPs for Trudeau to step down only underscores this point: with elections approaching, they’re ready to jump ship unless the captain changes course.

October 26, 2021

What exacerbates the situation is the centralization of power around the PMO, a trend that has alienated many MPs. Pierre Trudeau’s famous dismissal of MPs as “nobodies” the moment they leave Parliament Hill has never felt more true—not only for backbenchers but even for junior ministers who lack real influence within the cabinet. In a government increasingly run by Katie Telford and a tight circle of senior ministers like Chrystia Freeland, Melanie Joly, and Dominic LeBlanc, those on the periphery have become politically invisible. For the MPs left out of the club, the future is bleak—riding Trudeau’s leadership into the ground means facing the electorate with no credibility or public profile to stand on.

Analysis: Trudeau and the Liberals are burning time on themselves that they can’t afford to waste

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces a pivotal decision amidst plummeting popularity and internal party dissent, debating whether to lead the Liberals into the next election despite significant electoral challenges.

June 22, 2024

This disillusionment mirrors the last days of Brian Mulroney’s tenure, when MPs realized the futility of loyalty to a leader sinking under the weight of his own decisions. Mulroney’s mantra—“Ya gotta dance with the one that brung ya”—no longer resonates with today’s Liberals, as the cracks within Trudeau’s team widen. In its place, we hear the refrain “F*ck Trudeau,” a slogan borrowed from the Freedom Convoy movement, reflecting the growing public exhaustion and the frustration felt within caucus ranks.

The federal government's reluctance to extend the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) deadline, despite a concerning number of small businesses facing insolvency, raises critical questions about its commitment to supporting the backbone of the economy amid rising interest rates and inflation.

January 5, 2024

In a system where MPs have been reduced to little more than tools of the executive—pushed to vote on command, promote party-approved causes, and remain silent unless called upon—it’s no wonder that many are now openly or privately questioning their future under Trudeau’s leadership. If the Liberal Party’s survival depends on focusing its energy on preventing Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives from taking power, the infighting and bitterness now on display could doom them to the same fate they faced in 2011: a party lost in its own squabbles, out of touch with Canadians, and destined for defeat. As Immigration Minister Marc Miller warned, every minute spent on “this garbage” is a minute not spent fighting the real political battles ahead. (AI)


Posted to SUBSTACK.  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! – Graeme MacKay

Being a backbench MP during what seems to be the twilight of a government is hardly an enjoyable position.

It has to really suck.

These individuals chose public service, becoming dedicated foot soldiers for their party. They attended countless rubber chicken dinners, canvassed door to door, and passionately promoted their party and its leader to secure their seats. They arrived in Parliament eager to make a difference and be effective voices for their constituents. Perhaps they envisioned a chance to shine, to strut a little, maybe catch the attention of the mandarins, and to be appointed as committee chairs, Parliamentary Secretaries, or even to join the cabinet.

However, the more likely reality is that they find themselves in the role of trained seals, addressing constituent issues, showing up in Parliament, and performing one key task: voting with the party line while keeping their opinions to themselves.

As Justin Trudeau’s leadership wavers and power becomes increasingly concentrated within the Prime Minister’s Office, many Liberal MPs — now stuck on the backbenches — are expressing their frustrations and reevaluating their political futures. Echoing the discontent seen during the waning days of Mulroney and Chretien, these MPs are confronted with a stark truth: without the support of Trudeau’s influence, they risk going down with a sinking ship. With public fatigue regarding Trudeau and a rise in internal dissent, the party’s focus on its internal struggles is weakening its capacity to address the genuine threat posed by the Conservatives, evoking fears of a potential electoral collapse reminiscent of 2011.

In the end, the anticipated revolt from the backbenches against Justin Trudeau appears to have fizzled out with little fanfare. An ultimatum from certain MPs for him to resign by October 28 was swiftly dismissed by Trudeau, who asserted his intention to remain in power. While some may argue that this entire situation was merely a media fabrication, a “nothing burger” born from partisan fantasies, they are only fooling themselves. The reality is that a handful of disgruntled government MPs remain unhappy with the current trajectory, and their discontent signals a significant issue that cannot be overlooked. This simmering dissatisfaction could very well spell trouble for the party as it navigates its future amidst growing uncertainty.


Letters to the editor

Letters to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday October 29, 2024

Cartoon disappointing, disgusting
Re: Oct. 25 editorial cartoon

I generally enjoy Graeme MacKay’s political cartoons, however, I found this one disappointing and, frankly, disgusting. I have seen the slogan depicted on the back benchers’ shirts far too often and really wish that the supposed adults who insist on displaying it would grow some brains and decency.

Bill Millar, Stoney Creek

Wrong call on choice of imagery
Many of us are completely exhausted by Justin Trudeau’s presence and he needs to go on the fastest rocket out, however, that was a disgusting attempt at humour by Graeme MacKay. Highlighting this perceived profanity comment is just so wrong and offensive!

The vulgarity doesn’t need to be displayed to make a point of what Liberal backbenchers might think. Paper bags on the heads, sitting with backs turned would have been just as effective.

Gordon Franklin, Clinton

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-19, backbench, cabinet, Canada, Chrystia Freeland, Dominic LeBlanc, F*ck Trudeau, Francois-Philippe Champagne, freedom convoy, House of Commons, Justin Trudeau, leadership, letter, Melanie Joly, Parliament, Substack

Friday September 27, 2024

September 27, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Political blame games and distractions from leaders like Justin Trudeau and Doug Ford are stalling any real progress on Canada's housing crisis, which requires bold government intervention rather than market-driven tweaks.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday September 27, 2024

Political blame games and distractions from leaders like Justin Trudeau and Doug Ford are stalling any real progress on Canada’s housing crisis, which requires bold government intervention rather than market-driven tweaks.

Canada’s Federalism Is Stalling Housing Solutions, and Canadians Are Paying the Price

Recent byelection losses in LaSalle-Émard-Verdun and Toronto-St. Paul’s raise serious questions about Justin Trudeau's leadership and the future of the Liberal Party, suggesting a pressing need for new direction to regain voter trust.

September 18, 2024

The political circus in Canada, from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s survival battle in Parliament to Premier Doug Ford’s distracting antics, is only worsening the housing crisis. Canadians are struggling, and instead of real solutions, they get half-baked policy tweaks, partisan sniping, and absurd diversions. Trudeau is clinging to power, navigating one confidence vote after another, all while the housing crisis festers. Meanwhile, Doug Ford, rather than proposing concrete housing solutions, diverts attention by bizarrely announcing a 401 highway tunnel project and bashing homeless people, telling them to “get off their a-s-s-e-s and get jobs.” This political theatre does nothing to address the urgent need for affordable housing across the country.

As Canadians face rising rents, homelessness, and crippling mortgage debt, the bickering between political parties only makes matters worse. The constant jurisdictional blame game—whether it’s Ford deflecting housing responsibility onto Ottawa or Trudeau promising yet another hollow federal measure—is killing any real progress. The recent proposal for 30-year mortgages to “ease” the burden of homebuyers is just another market-driven, debt-fuelled policy that ignores the actual supply problem. And Ford’s approach, far from fixing Ontario’s housing mess, seems more focused on enriching developers through questionable Greenbelt sales.

November 23, 2022

As Tyler Firth argued in his Hamilton Spectator article, the solution to Canada’s housing crisis won’t come from market tweaks or false hopes that extending mortgage terms will solve the problem. What’s needed is a public housing initiative, led by government, that builds affordable homes for Canadians who are languishing in precarious living situations. Firth suggests creating an Ontario Housing Acquisition Authority (OHAA) to purchase existing rental properties and incorporate them into the public housing stock, ensuring long-term affordable housing for the people who need it most.

Opinion: The private sector has failed us on housing 

Carolyn Whitzman’s critique of the federal government is equally damning. The Liberals’ continued focus on propping up homeownership by increasing debt loads only pushes prices higher, without addressing the core issue of supply. It’s a glaring example of federalism gone wrong. Canada used to invest heavily in public housing, creating affordable homes for low- and middle-income Canadians. Yet, since the 1990s, public investment has dried up, leaving the private market to determine housing outcomes. The result? Housing is now an investment opportunity for the wealthy, rather than a basic right for all.

Opinion: Canadians need more homes, not longer mortgages and more debt 

As homelessness continues to rise in Ontario, especially highlighted during the AMO conference, it is imperative for politicians at all levels and across party lines to unite and implement effective strategies to eliminate encampments and ensure that every citizen has a safe place to call home.

August 21, 2024

Ford’s rhetoric blaming the homeless for their situation, combined with nonsensical distractions like his tunnel plan, only exacerbates the public’s frustration. His disregard for housing solutions is evident, as his government continues to prioritize profit-driven development over expanding affordable public housing. Meanwhile, Trudeau’s preoccupation with staying in power means little political will is left to push for radical housing reforms.

Both Firth and Whitzman understand the simple truth: the market has failed us. Canadians don’t need more opportunities to accumulate debt, they need a robust supply of affordable homes. Yet, the blame game between the federal and provincial governments has stalled any meaningful action. And as political leaders continue to distract and deflect, it’s ordinary Canadians who pay the price.

In an era where political leaders are more interested in scoring points and securing re-election than solving the problems facing their citizens, it’s time to demand better. The housing crisis requires bold, cooperative government action—building and acquiring homes, not diverting attention with politically motivated distractions. Trudeau and Ford need to stop using federalism as a shield for inaction. Canadians can’t afford to wait any longer. (AI)

Posted in: Canada, Ontario Tagged: 2024-17, 401, affordability, Canada, Doug Ford, encampment, federalism, homelessness, housing, Justin Trudeau, Ontario, Parliament, partisans, tunnel
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