Pierre Poilievre

Saturday September 16, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 16, 2023

Sunny Days for Poilievre as Liberal Fortunes Dim in Polls

September 12, 2023

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, finds himself in an ironic situation as the Liberals face a decline in the polls. Over the summer, the political landscape has shifted dramatically. The Conservatives, under Poilievre’s leadership, have steadily gained support and now stand at a commanding 41 percent in Abacus Data’s latest national survey. In contrast, the Liberal Party has seen a decline in support, now down to 26 percent.

Opinion: Nice try, Prime Minister Trudeau. But it’s too little, too late  

August 22, 2023

This shift can be attributed to several factors. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is experiencing near-unprecedented rates of disapproval, especially among younger voters who were instrumental in his 2015 election victory. Millennials are now showing strong support for the Conservatives, and even Generation Z is favouring them over the Liberals. Trudeau’s approval rating has plummeted to just 33 percent, with a disapproval rating of 63 percent.

The primary reason for this shift in public sentiment is the economic challenges facing Canadians. Rising housing costs and the increasing cost of living have eroded trust in the Liberal government’s ability to address these issues effectively. According to the Abacus Data poll, the “rising cost of living” is the top concern for Canadians under 40.

Furthermore, environmental and climate change issues, once a significant focus for the Liberals, have taken a backseat in voters’ minds. Only 23 percent of Millennials now consider climate change one of their top three political concerns.

Liberal Party: The “Sunny Way”  

August 5, 2022

Pierre Poilievre, despite initial skepticism from non-Conservatives, has steadily risen in popularity over the past year and is now the preferred choice for prime minister among a significant portion of Canadians. A survey by the Angus Reid Institute shows Poilievre with 32 percent support for prime minister, compared to Trudeau’s 17 percent.

The shift in priorities and the decline in Liberal support have led to a significant change in the political landscape. The Conservatives have made breakthroughs in support in Ontario and Atlantic Canada over the summer, making a Conservative majority government the most likely outcome in any future election. According to projections, the Tories could win a majority of 179 seats, with the Liberals and NDP lagging behind with 103 and 21 seats, respectively. (AI.) Editorial cartoon published in the Hamilton Spectator, and the Toronto Star.

 

Tuesday September 12, 2023

September 12, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday September 12, 2023

Trudeau’s Grounded Plane, Liberal Party Turbulence

April 24, 1997

As the Liberal Party finds itself hemorrhaging support in national public opinion polls, there’s a striking parallel to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent experience in India, where his plane was grounded due to technical issues. The 158-member national Liberal caucus is gathering in London, Ont., for their summer retreat, and it’s a crucial moment for the party to strategize its comeback.

News: Canada PM Justin Trudeau stuck in India after plane breaks down  

July 26, 2023

The Sept. 12-14 retreat marks the first face-to-face meeting between all MPs and Prime Minister Trudeau since his controversial July cabinet shuffle, which sparked dissatisfaction among backbench MPs and generated negative media attention. Liberal MP Brenda Shanahan, chair of the national Liberal caucus, hasn’t commented on the situation, but the retreat’s schedule reveals a significant focus on caucus meetings and discussions.

In these retreats, MPs traditionally share feedback from their constituents and receive updates on government priorities from cabinet ministers and party headquarters. However, the drop in polling numbers is a pressing concern for Liberal MPs, who are eager to understand the government’s strategy to address this decline. They’re also curious about why the government hasn’t effectively countered Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s relentless attacks.

The cabinet shuffle, which cast a shadow over the government’s performance, remains a sore point within the party. Liberal MPs and former senior members alike view it as a morale killer, both inside and outside the caucus. Pollsters attribute the declining poll numbers to the party’s prolonged time in power and rising concerns about inflation and affordability among Canadians.

News: Liberals’ tanking poll numbers ‘top of mind’ as Trudeau, Grits head to national caucus retreat  

February 22, 2018

As the party grapples with these challenges, the situation in India serves as a metaphor for Trudeau’s leadership and the Liberal party’s predicament. Just as Trudeau faces unexpected obstacles with a grounded plane, the Liberal party must navigate its way out of a turbulent political climate, seeking to regain momentum and public trust. The journey ahead may be uncertain, but as experienced campaigners, Liberals know that a strong, strategic effort can make all the difference in the next election.The prime minister had been slated to leave India on Sunday. (AI)

 

Saturday September 9, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 9, 2023

Window Display Politics: Pierre Poilievre’s Balancing Act for Canada

July 28, 2023

Pierre Poilievre, at the helm of the Conservative Party of Canada, finds himself in a challenging position as he attempts to broaden his party’s appeal to a more centrist Canadian voting audience while deftly navigating the demands of its more extreme right-wing factions. Within the diverse landscape of the Conservative Party, there exists a mosaic of passionate groups advocating for policies ranging from catering to gun enthusiasts and Christian conservatives to embracing Trump-inspired ideologies and other far-right positions. Poilievre, however, recognizes that to secure electoral victories in a country as diverse and centrist-leaning as Canada, he must tread a complex and often treacherous path.

News: Poilievre riding high in polls as Conservatives meet for policy convention  

June 14, 2022

One of the most significant challenges facing Poilievre is the intricate web of internal dynamics within his party. These power struggles, often characterized by competing factions vying for influence, have been a recurring theme in Conservative politics. The recent prominence of social conservative groups within the party, pushing for greater sway in areas such as nominations and candidate selection, underscores this ongoing challenge. These groups are known for their unwavering commitment to causes like anti-abortion advocacy and the pursuit of stringent restrictions on abortion access. While such positions may resonate with certain segments of the party’s base, they are seen as divisive and potentially unpopular among the broader Canadian electorate.

A pivotal moment in this internal power struggle was the recent nomination battle in the Ontario riding of Oxford. In this contest, Poilievre’s perceived preferred candidate emerged victorious, while a social conservative candidate was disqualified by the party’s leadership. The fallout from this incident revealed deep divisions within the party, with the Oxford community left fractured, and the outcome of the subsequent by-election in Oxford significantly impacted.

June 24, 2021

Furthermore, Poilievre faces the challenging task of reconciling his party’s stance on contentious policy debates, most notably the Conservative Party’s position on carbon pricing. The ability to maintain party unity and prevent internal dissent on issues like these is crucial for his leadership and the party’s electoral prospects.

Adding another layer of complexity is Poilievre’s willingness to engage with conspiracy theories, particularly those circulating around the World Economic Forum. While such engagement may resonate with certain segments of the party’s base, it raises concerns about the mainstreaming of fringe beliefs. These conspiracy theories, once relegated to the fringes of the internet, have increasingly gained traction in mainstream political discourse, fuelled in part by growing distrust of government institutions.

News: Conservatives to vote on controversial issues at Poilievre’s first policy convention as leader   

February 26, 2021

As the Conservative Party convenes for its policy convention, Pierre Poilievre’s leadership and strategic decisions will be under close scrutiny. While he is not bound by every policy resolution put forward, his choices and strategies will undoubtedly shape the party’s image and determine its ability to resonate with a broader Canadian electorate. Balancing the demands of the party’s base with the imperative of securing wider support is an intricate and formidable challenge—one that will significantly impact the party’s fortunes in the upcoming federal election.

In the display window for all Canadian voters to consider, the Conservative Party plans to showcase a vision that transcends its internal divisions and speaks to the values and aspirations of a diverse nation. This vision will require Pierre Poilievre to deftly navigate the competing interests and ideologies within his party, presenting a compelling narrative that addresses the concerns of both traditional conservative constituents and the broader Canadian electorate. The choices made at this pivotal policy convention will shape the Conservative Party’s path forward, ultimately determining its success in the quest for power. (AI.) Editorial cartoon printed in the Hamilton Spectator.

Letter to the Editor – The Hamilton Spectator 

Letter to the Editor

The red hats are coming 

Graeme MacKay’s cartoon in the Saturday Specta- tor depicted exactly the vision that is coming from the Conservative party through Poilievre’s rhetoric. He actually uses the “broken country” themes and the “I can fix it” quote from Trump himself. Seems American right-wing Republicanism has taken hold in Canada. Red hats on the way? God help us all! Bernadette Homerski, Dundas

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:

 

Friday September 1, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday September 1, 2023

Building a New Official Residence for Canada’s Prime Minister

April 8, 2023

April 8, 2023

The current state of the prime minister’s official residence, 24 Sussex Drive, leaves much to be desired. It is no secret that the house is in desperate need of repairs and renovations, making it uninhabitable. However, while plans are being considered for a new official residence, there is an interesting twist to this story.

Recent polls have shown a surge in support for the Conservative party, with Pierre Poilievre emerging as a potential future occupant of the prime minister’s residence. It is quite ironic that Poilievre, who has expressed little interest in the refurbishment or replacement of the official residence, could find himself residing in a place that requires a gatekeeper.

News: Security concerns might finally solve the 24 Sussex conundrum  

February 6, 2018

Poilievre has made it clear that his priorities lie elsewhere, and he envisions a more basic and secure residence for the prime minister. He emphasizes the need for practicality and the ability to receive dignitaries while ensuring the utmost security. Little did he know that a gatekeeper might be necessary for a residence that requires such extensive renovations and repairs.

As the discussions about the future of the prime minister’s residence continue, it is essential to consider the aspirations of potential future occupants like Poilievre. While he may not prioritize the refurbishment, his design input could greatly influence the architecture and functionality of the new residence, from the living quarters to formal reception areas and, ironically, the gatekeeper’s role in ensuring security.

News: 24 Sussex wasn’t always a rat-infested death trap  

August 9, 2023

It is intriguing to think about the prospect of Poilievre residing in a residence that he initially deemed unimportant. Perhaps this would provide him with a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the prime minister and their need for a suitable and secure place to live and work.

As the government explores options for the future of the prime minister’s residence, including potential new locations or a complete rebuild, it is crucial to take into account the desires and input of potential occupants like Poilievre. After all, a residence worthy of Canada’s prime minister should accommodate the needs and preferences of its future residents, including the ironic necessity of a gatekeeper. (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:

Tuesday August 22, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday August 22, 2023

Canada’s Worsening Housing Affordability Crisis: Political Posturing Fails to Deliver Solutions

August 9, 2023

Canada’s housing crisis has escalated into a dire situation, leaving countless citizens struggling to secure affordable homes. Amid this crisis, both the Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and the Conservative opposition, headed by Pierre Poilievre, have shown a lack of meaningful action. The consequences of this inaction are stark, as the dream of home ownership becomes increasingly unattainable for ordinary Canadians.

Since forming the government eight years ago, Prime Minister Trudeau’s Liberal administration has offered little more than empty promises and vague commitments to address the housing crisis. The recent appointment of Sean Fraser as housing minister, while signaling some acknowledgment of the problem, has done little to quell the growing frustration of Canadians seeking affordable housing.

Fraser’s statements exemplify the mixed messages that have come to define the government’s approach. While Trudeau’s government expresses the desire to build more affordable housing units, they are simultaneously reluctant to take measures that could impact the value of existing homes. This hesitation to confront the broader implications of their policies reveals a lack of genuine commitment to tackling the housing crisis.

News: Amid sagging support, Justin Trudeau makes Canadians’ housing woes a priority  

July 21, 2023

Furthermore, Trudeau’s assertion that housing isn’t a “primary federal responsibility” reflects a refusal to take full ownership of the issue. Housing is indeed a complex problem with shared jurisdiction between federal, provincial, and municipal levels. However, the federal government, under Trudeau’s leadership, has consistently failed to leverage its influence to effect meaningful change. While the government did launch a national housing strategy with a substantial financial commitment, the results have fallen short of the urgent need for action.

On the opposing side, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s approach is also problematic. He has adeptly pointed out the failures of the Liberal government in addressing housing affordability, using the crisis as political ammunition. However, his proposed solutions remain vague and underdeveloped. While Poilievre speaks passionately about the struggles of working-class Canadians and millennials who can no longer afford homes, he has not provided a comprehensive plan to effectively tackle the issue.

Poilievre’s proposal to compel big cities to increase housing construction or risk losing federal infrastructure grants is a step in the right direction, but it lacks detail and concrete implementation strategies. His focus on building high-density housing near transit stations and selling federal buildings could help alleviate the housing shortage, but without comprehensive measures to address zoning regulations and local resistance, the impact could remain limited.

Both major political parties are guilty of falling into the trap of political posturing. The Liberals’ reluctance to confront the broader implications of their policies and the Conservatives’ tendency to capitalize on the government’s failures without offering comprehensive solutions leaves Canadians stuck in an unending cycle of promises and disappointment.

Opinion: Justin Trudeau huddles with his cabinet this week. Here’s our wish list where they should focus their attention  

September 23, 2022

To truly address the housing affordability crisis, both parties need to step up and engage in a meaningful, comprehensive dialogue. Rather than resorting to political point-scoring, they should work together to develop a unified approach that involves federal, provincial, and municipal cooperation. Establishing a national roundtable or summit, as suggested by experts, could help align policies and overcome jurisdictional obstacles.

In the end, Canada’s housing crisis cannot be solved by half-hearted measures, vague commitments, or political grandstanding. It requires a concerted effort from all levels of government to develop a comprehensive strategy that encompasses regulatory reform, increased housing supply, and targeted support for those most affected. Failure to do so will only exacerbate the suffering of Canadians desperate for an affordable place to call home. (AI) Cartoon published 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: