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Polar Express

Wednesday March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Doug Ford and Mark Carney's collaborative relationship offers a pragmatic approach to tackling Canada's economic challenges, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's divisive style.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 26, 2025

Ford and Carney: A Pragmatic Duo Navigates Canada’s Challenges

Series: Young Doug Ford

The evolving relationship between Doug Ford and Mark Carney, juxtaposed with the distant rapport Ford shares with Pierre Poilievre, offers a compelling narrative about leadership, pragmatism, and the future of Canadian politics.

Doug Ford, despite his past controversies, has shown a remarkable ability to adapt and work across party lines. His recent collaboration with Mark Carney is a testament to his pragmatic approach. Carney, with his extensive background in economics and leadership, brings a wealth of expertise that complements Ford’s political acumen. Together, they provide a balanced and strategic front against external challenges, particularly in light of Trump’s tariff wars.

News: Insiders say Pierre Poilievre called Doug Ford for ‘advice’ — but the premier said he’ll be ‘staying out’ of the election

Doug Ford's evolution from a controversial provincial leader to a national unifier fills a leadership void left not just by Justin Trudeau, but also Pierre Poilievre, as Canada faces economic challenges similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, while dealing with his lingering past controversies.

January 15, 2025

Their partnership is not just about political convenience; it’s about safeguarding Canadian interests. Ford’s decision to meet with Carney at Wally’s Grill symbolizes a willingness to engage with leaders who share a vision for
In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s relationship with Ford appears strained and distant. Despite reaching out for advice, Poilievre’s late congratulatory call to Ford and the lack of personal rapport highlight a disconnect. Ford’s focus on governing Ontario and his refusal to engage in federal campaigning further underscores his commitment to provincial priorities.

Poilievre’s rigid stance and divisive rhetoric, reminiscent of American-style politics, seem out of sync with Ford’s centrist approach. This contrast is not lost on voters, many of whom express concerns about Poilievre’s ability to unite and lead effectively.

Opinion: For Doug Ford, Mark Carney will always be a better partner than Pierre Poilievre

April 28, 2023

Reader comments reflect a broader sentiment: Ford, despite his flaws, is viewed as a leader willing to listen and adapt, while Poilievre is seen as rigid and confrontational. Ford’s willingness to collaborate with leaders like Carney, regardless of political affiliation, resonates with Canadians who value cooperation and stability.

In a time of economic uncertainty and external threats, the Ford-Carney alliance offers a reassuring path forward. Their combined leadership exemplifies the power of collaboration and pragmatic governance, positioning Canada to navigate challenges with resilience and foresight.

As Canadians consider their political landscape, the contrast between Ford’s adaptable leadership and Poilievre’s divisive approach becomes increasingly evident. The Ford-Carney partnership stands as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that effective leadership transcends party lines and prioritizes the nation’s well-being.


Picking a Topic

Drawing an editorial cartoon is like putting together a puzzle with a thousand tiny pieces. The hardest part is picking the right topic, especially since my audience is spread across Ontario from Kitchener to Niagara Falls. Today, there were lots of news bites to chew on. The Trump officials’ chat was juicy but already covered by U.S. folks. The TVA debate fee and the India interference story seemed either too niche or not cooked enough yet.

What really caught my eye was the budding bromance between Mark Carney and Doug Ford. Their recent get-togethers offered a perfect chance for some light-hearted fun, especially with a classic CNE setting. I decided to use the “Polar Express” ride to play on Carney’s name and toss in a bit of nostalgia with a young Doug Ford and friends having a blast.

In the cartoon, young Pierre Poilievre looks puzzled in his nerdy “Spirit of 76” shirt, while Carney, as the ride operator, has him talking to the hand. Ford’s on the ride, waving and cheering, while Pierre wonders why he’s left out. The Bulova Tower sneaks into the background, adding that authentic CNE vibe.

This piece is all about mixing humour with a bit of satire, poking fun at political dynamics in a playful way. It feels good to see the idea come to life and hopefully give readers across Ontario a chuckle. Here’s the animated version – Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada, Ontario Tagged: 2025-06, Canada, challenges, CNE, collaboration, Doug Ford, Economy, governance, leadership, Mark Carney, Ontario, Pierre Poilievre, Polar Express, politics, pragmatism, Substack, Trade, YDF, Young Doug Ford

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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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