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Pierre Trudeau

Saturday December 21, 2024

December 21, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

In a Dickensian twist, Justin Trudeau is cast as Scrooge, haunted by the ghost of his father Pierre and other spirits, confronting the fading legacy of his leadership and the mounting pressure to step aside for the good of his party and country.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday December 21, 2024

In a Dickensian twist, Justin Trudeau is cast as Scrooge, haunted by the ghost of his father Pierre and other spirits, confronting the fading legacy of his leadership and the mounting pressure to step aside for the good of his party and country.

An Ottawa Christmas Carol

It was a bitterly cold night in Ottawa, and Justin Trudeau sat alone in the grand but lonely halls of Rideau Cottage, now more mausoleum than home. The once-vibrant optimism that had carried him to power now felt like a distant memory, replaced by whispers of discontent and the weight of eroding public trust.

January 12, 2007

As he gazed out the frosted window at the swirling snow, a chill not of winter but of something far deeper crept through the room. Suddenly, the silence was shattered by the sound of heavy chains clinking. Trudeau spun around to see a figure emerge from the shadows: his father, Pierre Trudeau, pale and spectral, draped in a cloak of memories and regrets.

“Justin,” the elder Trudeau intoned, his voice carrying the authority of a man who once weathered his own storms of leadership. “You walk a dangerous path, my son. You are blind to the discontent that grows around you, deaf to the advice of those who have warned you. Tonight, you will be visited by three spirits. Heed their lessons, or your legacy will wither as surely as your power has begun to fade.”

Before Justin could respond, Pierre vanished into the ether, leaving behind only the faint scent of buckskin leather and the echo of his famous walk in the snow.

News: 4 ministers get new portfolios, 8 Liberal MPs promoted in Trudeau cabinet shuffle

The Ghost of Christmas Past

December 21, 2017

The first spirit arrived in a golden glow, bearing the form of a younger, fresher Justin Trudeau—the teacher, the optimist, the champion of “sunny ways.” The ghost led him to a scene from 2015: a jubilant election night, Canadians cheering for change, hope, and progress.

“Remember this moment,” the spirit urged. “This was when your ideals inspired a nation. But where is that leader now?”

The vision shifted to 2020, when the challenges of the pandemic tested his resolve. The applause of 2015 gave way to murmurs of discontent.

“This was your chance to rise above politics, but pride and missteps have tarnished your promises. Reflect on who you were, Justin, before it’s too late.”

The Ghost of Christmas Present

The Liberal government’s GST holiday and $250 rebate expose fiscal recklessness, political desperation, and internal discord while failing to address Canada’s systemic economic challenges.

December 11, 2024

The second spirit appeared next: a towering figure wrapped in a cloak of red and white, carrying a scale tipped precariously under the weight of division and scandal.

It whisked Trudeau to the chambers of Parliament, where discontent brewed among his own caucus. MPs whispered in corners, their confidence in their leader eroded. In the homes of ordinary Canadians, families struggled with rising costs and waning trust in government.

“Do you see their struggles?” the spirit asked. “Your choices weigh heavy on them. They feel forgotten, even abandoned.”

The vision changed again to a cabinet table, where Dominic LeBlanc sat wearily holding the Finance portfolio and a growing list of crises. “Even your most loyal allies cannot bear this alone forever,” the spirit warned.

News: Justin Trudeau is facing a political crisis made worse by Donald Trump. Can he survive as Canada’s leader?

The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come

August 5, 2022

Finally, the room grew dark, and the third spirit arrived, cloaked in shadow. It showed no face, only a skeletal hand that pointed forward. Trudeau followed reluctantly, and the vision it revealed was stark:

An election defeat. A humbled Liberal Party, fractured and leaderless. A legacy remembered not for boldness but for indecision and squandered goodwill. The name “Justin Trudeau” etched into history not as a reformer but as a cautionary tale.

“Is this what must be?” Trudeau cried out. “Can this future not be changed?”

The spirit pointed silently to the snow-covered ground, where faint footsteps marked a solitary path.

Awakening with a start, Trudeau found himself back in his room. The echoes of the spirits still rang in his ears. The lessons were clear: the path forward demanded humility, decisiveness, and the courage to let go when the time was right.

As he looked out at the fresh snow, a thought occurred to him. Perhaps the time had come to take his own walk in the snow—one that might allow his party and his country to find new hope, even if it meant stepping aside.

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-23, A Christmas Carol, Canada, christmas, Justin Trudeau, leadership, parody, Pierre Trudeau, Scrooge, shuffle

Tuesday November 18, 2024

November 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay
As the U.S. wrestles with the divisive and destabilizing effects of MAGA, Canada risks developing a version of its neighbour’s political and social illness, amplified by its smaller size and growing internal vulnerabilities.

November 18, 2024

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 18, 2024

When the U.S. Has Pneumonia, Canada Catches Something Worse

January 17, 2012

Pierre Trudeau’s metaphor of Canada as a mouse sleeping beside the American elephant has never felt more apt. But in today’s climate, it’s less about sleeping peacefully and more about catching something far nastier than a sneeze from our ailing neighbour. If the United States is stumbling with the long-term effects of its MAGA infection, Canada, always downstream, seems destined for something more chronic and debilitating.

In the United States, MAGA is no longer just a political slogan—it’s a systemic condition. Despite polarizing effects on the electorate, Trumpism has reshaped American politics, culture, and international relations. Rising discontent and populism, once confined to the U.S., are spreading northward like a contagious illness. With Trump’s resurgence in American politics, Canada’s immunity is faltering. Polls show that support for Trump has risen here, particularly among young men and Conservative voters, reflecting the restlessness and dissatisfaction that MAGA thrives upon.

News: Canadian support for Donald Trump higher than in last U.S. presidential election, poll finds

Chrystia Freeland’s assurances that Canada will be “absolutely fine” under a Trump presidency lack specificity, leaving Canadians skeptical and searching for real solutions amid mounting challenges.

November 8, 2024

Canada’s political and economic systems are deeply intertwined with those of the U.S., making any American turmoil impossible to ignore. Yet, our susceptibility to its influence often leaves us worse off. Take healthcare: Ontario faces an impending crisis, with chronic illness rates set to double by 2040. Strains on the system are compounded by recent spikes in walking pneumonia—a disease with mild origins but serious implications if left unchecked.

Similarly, MAGA ideology in Canada could exacerbate existing political fractures, intensifying polarization and undermining collaborative governance.

The metaphor writes itself: the U.S. is sick with pneumonia, and Canada, with its smaller size and weaker defences, risks developing a life-threatening condition.

Historically, Canada’s socio-political structure has relied on collective resilience, but MAGA thrives on division. Our rising health and social challenges mirror the vulnerabilities that MAGA-style populism exploits. With increasing chronic illnesses and strains on public services, there’s fertile ground for frustration and blame-shifting. This echoes Andrew Parkin’s observation that support for Trump in Canada is less about MAGA loyalty and more an expression of dissatisfaction with the status quo. Unfortunately, such dissatisfaction could be weaponized here in ways even more destructive than in the U.S.

News: Ontario’s reached a turning point’: Adults living with major illness in the province to double by 2040, study warns

November 12, 2018

Like walking pneumonia, MAGA’s influence is persistent but preventable. Strengthening Canadian democratic norms, fostering civic engagement, and investing in healthcare and social equity are vital steps. Much like vaccines for physical illnesses, proactive measures can build immunity against political contagion. But as Ontario’s health report warns, waiting too long to act can lead to overwhelming consequences.

If the U.S. has pneumonia, Canada must recognize its own vulnerabilities and act decisively. Without vigilance, the mouse may find itself not just jostled by the elephant but crushed under its weight.


Ah, the old adage: “When the U.S. sneezes, Canada catches pneumonia.” It’s a saying that’s practically folklore, illustrating how closely our fortunes are tied to our big southern neighbour. Pierre Trudeau once famously said Canada was like a mouse sleeping beside an elephant—vulnerable to every twitch, sneeze, or roll of its bedmate. But in my latest cartoon, the stakes have risen. The elephant isn’t just sneezing; it’s bedridden with a MAGA infection. And the poor mouse? Well, the prognosis isn’t looking great.

It’s November—peak infection season—and the metaphor couldn’t be timelier. America’s internal struggles, now turbocharged by MAGA populism, are spilling over into Canada. Trump’s influence, rising Conservative enthusiasm for him, and a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo are all symptoms of our neighbour’s turmoil that could infect us too. And like the respiratory viruses spiking in Ontario, this imported strain might hit Canada harder due to our smaller size and heightened vulnerabilities.

Speaking of “snoozing,” and in the spirit of not letting an online chat with someone who has decided to hibernate go to waste, here’s a gem from my Facebook feed.

“Snoozing this page among others, as I’m sick and tired of hearing his voice, seeing his face, and hearing Canadian media speak incessantly about this persimmon potentate.”

To which I responded: I get it. The Trump media deluge can be overwhelming. But ignoring it won’t make it go away. Canadians can’t afford to snooze through this moment, given the challenges looming on our side of the border. Whether it’s economic upheaval, strained social systems, or adapting to live beside a climate-change denier, the fallout is very real. Sure, take a break for some cat videos—but beware the perils of pressing snooze for too long.

Take a look at the cartoon, share your thoughts, and let me know: is Canada the mouse who’ll roar, or just about to come down with a really really bad cold? Volume up on this please:

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack


 

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-21, bed, Canada, Donald Trump, Elephant, Elon Musk, infection, mouse, Pierre Trudeau, seasonal allergies. chronic illness, Substack, Substack3, USA

Tuesday, September 4, 2024

September 4, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Reflecting on a Political Awakening, 40 Years Later

By Graeme MacKay, Tuesday, September 4, 2024

Forty years ago today, on September 4, 1984, Canada underwent a political earthquake that forever changed its landscape. It was election day, the results of which Canada had never really seen before. For me, it marked the beginning of a lifelong journey into the world of politics, an awakening that has shaped my career as an editorial cartoonist, where I’ve keenly observed the ebb and flow of power, the rise and fall of leaders, and the inevitable march of history.

Brian Mulroney – Graeme MacKay 1983

As a 15-year-old in 1984, I was just starting to tune into the broader world beyond my immediate surroundings. While I was still engrossed in typical teenage activities, names like John Crosbie, David Crombie, Michael Wilson, and Joe Clark began to seep into my consciousness (back then kids would actually pay attention to news by following it on tv, or radio, or reading about it in newspapers.) The leadership race that saw Brian Mulroney rise to the helm of the Progressive Conservative Party in 1983 was a pivotal moment. It was then that I first grasped the importance of leadership and its impact on the direction of a nation.

The PCs’ decision to replace their weak leader, Joe Clark, with the charismatic Mulroney signaled a shift. I still recall the moment when Oilers tycoon Peter Pocklington, with his entrepreneurial spirit, threw his hat into the leadership contest, underscoring the party’s growing focus on free enterprise and economic renewal.

A Walk in the Snow

Mulroney’s ascent was perfectly timed. Just a few months after becoming party leader, he found himself in a position to challenge a Liberal government that was losing its way. On a snowy day in February 1984, Pierre Trudeau, a towering figure who had been Prime Minister for most of my life, took a reflective walk and decided it was time to step down. It was a poignant moment for Canada, and even as a teenager, I felt the weight of that decision.

My own recording of Pierre Trudeau’s good-bye speech

Born just six months after Trudeau first took office, I grew up in an era defined by his leadership. As I began to explore my political awareness, I found myself reflecting on Trudeau’s legacy. In one of my early journal entries, I wrote, “Many have put down the leadership of Prime Minister Trudeau, including myself. I now realize that Mr. Trudeau is a gifted man, a very intelligent man of rare type.” Marc Lalonde in addressing his fellow Liberals at a farewell gala reminded the audience that in 20 years time each could proudly boast, “I was there when Trudeau was Prime Minister.”

The Liberal Leadership Battle

John Turner – by Graeme MacKay, 1984

Trudeau’s departure set the stage for a fierce battle within the Liberal Party, a contest that pitted two of the party’s brightest stars against each other: John Turner and Jean Chrétien. The race was a captivating display of ambition, with other contenders like Eugene Whelan, Marc MacGuigan, John Roberts, and Donald Johnston making their final bids for leadership. Ultimately, Turner emerged victorious, but his victory was bittersweet.

Jean Chretien – by Graeme MacKay, 1984.

Turner’s tenure as Prime Minister was marred by the shadow of Trudeau’s long reign and the arrogance that had built up over years of Liberal dominance. His disastrous campaign against Mulroney’s Progressive Conservatives in the 1984 election resulted in a crushing defeat, with the Liberals reduced to just 40 seats in the House of Commons. It was a humbling moment for a party that had governed Canada for much of the previous two decades.

A Personal Connection

15yr old me on on the right

The 1984 election wasn’t just a moment of national significance—it was a personal milestone for me. I still remember the thrill of shaking hands with Brian Mulroney at a rally in Dundurn Park, Hamilton, and meeting Jean Chrétien as he campaigned in Dundas. I even had the opportunity to pose for a photo with John Turner when I briefly joined a local Young Liberal association. These encounters brought the world of politics into sharp focus, making it real and tangible.

The Broader Context

The transformation in Canada’s political landscape wasn’t happening in isolation. South of the border, the U.S. was in the midst of its own pivotal election, with Ronald Reagan cruising toward a landslide victory over Walter Mondale. The conservative wave that swept across North America during this period would shape the continent’s politics for years to come, paving the way for leaders like Jean Chrétien and Bill Clinton in the 1990s.

And then, there was the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Canada, just days after the 1984 federal election. His presence added a sense of gravitas to a period already brimming with change.

Mulroney campaign ad I recorded in 1984

The Final Act: Ontario’s Political Shift

Frank Miller – by Graeme MacKay, 1985

The political transformation of the early 1980s extended beyond the federal level. In 1985, Ontario saw its own leadership change when Bill Davis, who had been Premier since I was in diapers, decided to step down. Davis’ resignation marked the end of an era in Ontario politics, and the leadership race to replace him featured familiar names like Roy McMurtry, Dennis Timbrell, and Larry Grossman.

My first editorial cartoon

The race produced a short-lived victory for Frank Miller, a car dealer turned politician, whose tenure was cut short by the shifting political winds that soon brought David Peterson, Bob Rae, and Mike Harris to the forefront. Meeting Bill Davis in the parlour of my Anglican church as he campaigned in the waning days of his time in office was yet another moment that solidified my interest in the political world.

Bill Davis’ Good-bye announcement I recorded in 1985

Reflecting on a Period of Transformation

Looking back, the years from 1983 to 1985 were a time of profound change in Canada. The political giants of the era—Pierre Trudeau, Brian Mulroney, Ed Broadbent, John Turner, and Bill Davis—have all since passed away, leaving behind legacies that continue to influence our nation. It was a period that shaped my understanding of politics and the cyclical nature of power.

As I reflect on these events 40 years later, I realize that I have yet to witness another time quite like it. The alignment of events, the clash of personalities, and the sweeping changes that followed remain unparalleled in my memory. It was a time when the stars aligned, and history was made—a time that set me on the path to becoming the observer and commentator that I am today.

Posted in: Canada, Cartooning Tagged: 1984, 2024-16, Bill Davis, Brian Mulroney, Canada, John Turner, Pierre Trudeau

Saturday January 13, 2024

January 13, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Ed Broadbent, though not a Prime Minister, left an indelible mark as a progressive champion, steering the New Democratic Party for over two decades with a genuine commitment to justice and the well-being of average Canadians.

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)

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2024-01, Canada, Ed Broadbent, Elijah Harper, Flora MacDonald, Hugh Segal, Lincoln Alexander, NDP, Obit, pantheon, Pierre Trudeau, Rosemary Brown, social justice, Tommy Douglas

Friday December 29, 2023

December 29, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Amidst political turbulence, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland's whimsical fortune-telling session with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offers a mischievous glimpse into the stormy uncertainties of 2024, as the spectre of Trudeau's father's historic 'walk in the snow' retirement haunts discussions of his leadership future.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday December 29, 2023

Chrystia Freeland’s Crystal Ball: A Mischievous Forecast for 2024

September 16, 2023

As the political landscape in Canada gets chillier for the Liberal government, a peculiar scene unfolded in Ottawa recently that had onlookers scratching their heads. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, known for his resilience in the face of adversity, sat across from Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, who was dressed as a fortune teller ready to unveil her vision for the upcoming year.

Trudeau, expecting an economic forecast for 2024, eagerly leaned in as Freeland peered into her crystal ball. However, what followed was not the typical predictions of GDP growth or employment rates, but a mischievous glimpse into the political storm awaiting the Prime Minister.

News: No ‘walk in the snow’ moment for PM

February 15, 2022

“I see a stormy snowy scene,” Freeland began, her eyes fixed on the swirling mists within the crystal ball. “A lone figure appears in Ottawa. Is that a former Prime Minister on a walk in the snow? Is it 1984? No, it’s 2024. It should be cold, but I sense warmth.”

The reference to Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s famous “walk in the snow” retirement was not lost on Justin, who raised an eyebrow, perhaps realizing that Freeland’s forecast was not your typical economic projection.

Despite recent polls indicating a decline in support for the Liberals, Trudeau remains adamant about his leadership. In a year-end interview, he emphasized his determination to weather the challenges and lead the party into the next election. However, the echoes of the past, specifically his father’s iconic exit, seem to be haunting his political future.

The sentiment for Trudeau to step aside is not new, with polls suggesting a majority of Canadians believe it’s time for a change. Even within his own party, some voices are calling for renewal, drawing parallels to Pierre Trudeau’s legacy.

September 10, 2022

Freeland, strategically sidestepping questions about her leadership ambitions, maintains her focus on supporting Canadians. Dressed in her fortune teller attire, she seems to have a unique perspective on the political climate, blending whimsy with a hint of mischief.

News: Freeland ‘absolutely’ thinks Liberals can win again under Trudeau, plans to run for re-election  

The Ipsos poll reveals a growing consensus that Trudeau should resign, especially in traditionally Liberal-friendly regions. This sentiment, according to Ipsos CEO Darrell Bricker, extends into Ontario and Quebec, raising concerns about the party’s electoral fortunes.

October 26, 2021

As Trudeau faces the political storm depicted by Freeland’s crystal ball, the question of succession lingers. While Freeland remains coy about her aspirations, her declaration of intent to run in the next election adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding narrative.

The political fortune-telling session in Ottawa serves as a symbolic reflection of the uncertainty surrounding Trudeau’s future. As Canadians brace themselves for a potential election in 2024, the question remains: Will the warmth in Freeland’s vision thaw the political chill, or is a new era on the horizon for Canadian politics? Only time, and perhaps a crystal ball, will tell. (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:

https://mackaycartoons.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2023-1229-NAT.mp4

 

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2023-22, Canada, Chrystia Freeland, fortune teller, Justin Trudeau, Liberal Party, Pierre Trudeau, prediction, procreate, retirement, Walk in the snow
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This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

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