policy – mackaycartoons

Thursday April 24, 2025

April 24, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 24, 2025

As the NDP faces a potential decline in support, Jagmeet Singh’s leadership is under scrutiny, highlighting the party’s need for strategic realignment and renewed focus on core values.

The NDP Faces a Crossroads Amidst Election Uncertainty

March 27, 2025

As Canadians prepare to vote, the New Democratic Party (NDP), under Jagmeet Singh, is facing a tough election. Polls suggest a potential decline in support that could jeopardize the party’s status, highlighting the urgent need for change and strategic adjustment.

Opinion: Donald Trump pounds another nail into the NDP’s coffin

Jagmeet Singh’s leadership has been under intense scrutiny. Since becoming leader in 2017, Singh has had to navigate challenging political landscapes. Yet, his tenure is marked by decisions that have blurred the NDP’s distinct identity. The party’s agreement with the Liberals in 2022, though it brought some policy wins like dental and pharmacare coverage, has left voters wondering what makes the NDP different from the Liberals.

September 6, 2024

Strategically, the NDP has struggled to maintain its footing. By supporting the Liberal government, the party inadvertently gave the Conservatives a chance to gain ground, especially on issues like affordability, traditionally an NDP stronghold. This has led to a loss of support, with voters increasingly turning to parties they see as more capable of addressing pressing economic concerns.

Externally, the influence of Donald Trump has shifted voter focus towards leaders perceived as strong on international trade and relations. This shift has made it challenging for the NDP’s focus on social issues to resonate. Internally, the party grapples with an identity crisis, where a shift towards more fringe policies has alienated moderate supporters.

Critics also point to the NDP’s ambitious social programs, questioning how they plan to fund these initiatives. The perception that the party is out of touch with economic realities has eroded its credibility, even among supporters who align with its social ideals.

Analysis: Singh’s fateful steps

February 29, 2024

Despite these challenges, the situation presents an opportunity for the NDP to regroup and redefine its role. A change in leadership might be necessary to inject fresh energy and realign the party’s strategies with voter priorities. By focusing on core values like healthcare and social equality, and balancing these with economic pragmatism, the NDP can offer a clear and credible alternative to Canadians.

The party’s future will depend on its ability to adapt and reconnect with voters. As the election approaches, how the NDP addresses these challenges will determine its immediate success and long-term role in Canadian politics.

Dire Dipper Days

Pity the NDP and its leader, Jagmeet Singh, whose tenure may be one of the most consequential in decades due to his influence over Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. Through the Liberal-NDP Supply and Confidence agreement, Singh championed pharmacare, dental care, and elements of the childcare plan. Yet, with just days before the 2025 federal election, the NDP languishes in single-digit support. It seems the party is headed for a harsh voter backlash, possibly signalling the end of Singh’s leadership after eight years. Whether he became too much of a prop for the Liberals, prolonged parliament for his pension, or faced racial bias, the outcome remains uncertain. Though I’m not an NDP member, Singh has been undeniably impactful in enacting NDP policies. Historically, the NDP has influenced significant social reforms, like universal healthcare and the Canada Pension Plan. Today, the party is overshadowed by a national crisis favuoring the Liberals and Conservatives. Though Singh may soon lose his position, his legacy of social benefits for Canadians stands strong.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 24, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

Youtube: April 24, 2025 https://youtu.be/WeNiZj0fLH0

– The Graeme Gallery

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Wednesday April 23, 2025

April 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 23, 2025

Canada’s Quiet Resolve in Strengthening Defence Amid Global Uncertainty

March 1, 2024

In the ever-shifting landscape of global politics, where alliances are tested and national interests recalibrated, Canada finds itself at a pivotal juncture. Recent events and political shifts have underscored a growing realization among NATO member countries, including Canada, that bolstering military capabilities is not just a response to external pressures, but a strategic necessity for a world where traditional security assurances can no longer be taken for granted.

The backdrop to this realization is a United States led by President Donald Trump, whose rhetoric and actions have raised concerns about America’s commitment to global security frameworks established post-World War II. Trump’s calls for NATO allies to increase defence spending to five percent of GDP, though seemingly about shared burden, mask a deeper unease about the U.S.’s role as a reliable security partner. Trump’s annexation rhetoric concerning Canada and Greenland, while alarming, reflects an unpredictable approach to international relations that has left many allies wary.

News: Trump wants NATO to spend 5% on defence. What do Canada party leaders say?

January 12, 2022

Canada, traditionally seen as a steadfast partner within NATO, has faced criticism for not meeting the alliance’s defence spending target of two percent of GDP. Yet, there’s a nuanced understanding emerging among Canadian political leaders. Both Liberal Leader Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have now committed to reaching the two percent target by 2030, aligning their strategies to ensure Canada’s sovereignty and security in an increasingly unstable world. This alignment signifies a shared recognition of the importance of enhancing military capabilities amidst global uncertainties.

This decision reflects a pragmatic approach to defence policy. Canada recognizes that in a world where the U.S. might retreat from its role as a global security guarantor, it must step up to ensure its own defence readiness. The focus is on modernizing the military, securing the Arctic, and investing in cutting-edge technologies like AI and quantum computing, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

News: Mark Carney unveils a plan to Trump-proof Canada

July 12, 2018

Canada’s resolve to meet NATO commitments “on its own terms” is emblematic of a broader trend among NATO members. Many countries are recalibrating their defence policies not just due to external pressures from the U.S., but because of the realization that global threats are multifaceted. The unpredictability of a U.S. administration dismissive of trade and military alliances only adds to the urgency.

In this context, Canada’s approach is both sensible and strategic. It is about strengthening defence capabilities while fostering unity and consensus among political leaders. The decision to bolster military spending is not about succumbing to external demands but about safeguarding national interests in a changing global order.

As Canada moves forward, the focus should remain on maintaining a balanced approach that prioritizes security, economic stability, and diplomatic engagement. By doing so, Canada can navigate the complexities of international relations with resilience and resolve, ensuring its place as a respected and reliable partner on the world stage.

PPs 2% Promise

I’ve been closely following Pierre Poilievre’s approach to Canada’s NATO obligations, and his recent commitment to the 2% GDP defence target by 2030 has caught my attention. Until last week’s debate, Poilievre hadn’t specified a timeline, often critiquing the Liberals’ fluctuating target dates between 2028 and 2034 over the past couple of years without presenting his own. Now, it turns out his target aligns precisely with the Liberals’ plan, even as countries worldwide are exceeding the 2% benchmark.

Interestingly, Poilievre’s decision to announce this commitment late in the campaign suggests strategic timing. It’s likely not a stance that would be met with overwhelming enthusiasm, especially within his own party, where it could be quite polarizing. Let’s face it, bolstering defence—even amid increased threats—isn’t high on the average voter’s priority list, particularly with the cost of living crisis intensifying as Trump ramps up tariffs.

This revelation suggests that Poilievre might not be as hawkish as many believed. His mealy mouthed attitude toward supporting Ukraine’s struggle against Putin tyranny is a chief indicator of this for another day. While he shares Trump’s scepticism towards international agreements and multilateralism, evidenced by his rare mention of the Paris Accord, his reticence on NATO commitments raises questions. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the need to strengthen Canada’s military, including against potential U.S. threats.

Historically, Canada’s Conservative Party has championed robust military and defence policies. Yet, in the era of Donald Trump, who demands a 5% GDP commitment to NATO, one might expect Canadian conservatives to follow suit. Instead, Poilievre’s proposal mirrors the Liberals’, aiming for 2030, which I find both intriguing and somewhat lacking.

While I often see parallels between Canadian conservatives and Trump’s Republicans, this divergence is significant. The traditional hawks within Canada’s Conservative Party appear to have less influence, a point worth noting. When it comes to defence, the differences between Canada’s two major parties offered to voters are strikingly similar.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 23, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

PPs 2% Promise https://youtu.be/7QXYW_dp024

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Tuesday February 25, 2025

February 25, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday February 25, 2025

Doug Ford’s Electric Vehicle Gamble: A Fortunate Oversight in Election Season

November 22, 2024

As Ontario approaches its election on February 27, 2025, Premier Doug Ford faces a challenging situation with his ambitious plans for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. While he’s committed to boosting this growing sector, threats from U.S. President Donald Trump and uncertainties in the car market present serious challenges that shouldn’t be ignored.

News: As Trump threatens, should Ontario keep its ‘eggs in the EV basket?’

Ontario has a long history in the traditional car industry, and the shift to electric vehicles marks an important change. Ford’s strategy, however, depends heavily on stable U.S. policies and decisions. Trump’s recent cuts to EV incentives and threats to tax Canadian imports highlight the risks. Since a lot of Ontario’s car production goes to the U.S., a drop in EV demand there could be disastrous. The province has invested billions, which could be wasted if the market doesn’t grow as expected.

Political opponents like NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie have questioned Ford’s plans. Crombie’s comment about “putting all our eggs in the EV basket” shows concerns about relying too much on one industry. Surprisingly, this issue hasn’t been a major topic in the election, possibly because voters are focused on immediate issues like healthcare and education.

News: Ford says he’ll honour Ontario’s EV commitment, Crombie and Stiles less definitive

June 3, 2023

It’s lucky for Ford that the risks of his EV plan haven’t become a major election issue. However, this could be risky. While it helps him push his EV agenda, it also leaves a major weakness unaddressed, which might be used against him as the election nears.

The impact of focusing on the EV industry is significant. The car sector supports about 100,000 jobs and adds nearly $15 billion to Ontario’s economy. A downturn, especially if influenced by U.S. policy changes, could lead to job losses and economic problems. Ford needs to see that while he’s promoting an innovative idea, he’s also risking the province’s economic future.

News: Stellantis pauses work on Jeep Compass, leaving future of Brampton plant up in the air

May 17, 2023

In summary, Doug Ford’s dedication to the electric vehicle sector is admirable but uncertain. As he campaigns, he should be thankful that these concerns haven’t turned into major opposition. However, he shouldn’t ignore this. Ford must tackle the weaknesses in his EV strategy, diversify Ontario’s economy, and prepare for possible issues from unpredictable U.S. politics. Ontario’s economic future might depend on it.

As we approach this Thursday’s provincial election, there’s something that’s been quite under the radar. Doug Ford’s big investments in EV battery deals, which cost billions, aren’t really being talked about. The opposition isn’t bringing it up, and Ford’s not making a big deal out of it either.

Why the quiet? Well, Donald Trump’s focus on fossil fuels has kind of overshadowed green energy efforts. Now, any push to help the planet and invest in renewables is brushed off as “woke” stuff. What’s interesting, though, is that the federal Liberals and Ford’s government have actually teamed up to invest in Ontario’s green sector—something you don’t see often.

It was a move everyone agreed on when the U.S. was more supportive. But now, with those days gone, there’s this odd silence on an issue that might become a big challenge for Ford in the future. Even as he looks set for a big win this week, I wonder how this will all play out.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 24, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Friday January 10, 2025

January 10, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday January 10, 2025

Pierre Poilievre’s Path in Canadian Politics

January 8, 2025

As Canada stands on the brink of a significant political transition, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party, finds himself at a pivotal moment. The resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the ensuing Liberal leadership race, and the impending return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency have created a complex landscape that demands nuanced navigation. Poilievre’s approach, characterized by populist rhetoric and a focus on critiquing Liberal policies, must evolve to address the multifaceted challenges that lie ahead.

February 13, 2017

Poilievre’s political strategy has largely revolved around painting a picture of a “broken” Canada under Trudeau’s leadership. His catchy slogans, such as “Axe the Tax,” resonate with voters frustrated by economic and environmental policies they perceive as burdensome. However, as the political dynamics shift with Trudeau’s departure, Poilievre’s reliance on populist rhetoric may prove insufficient. The challenge now is to pivot from slogans to substantive policy discussions that address the real concerns of Canadians.

Opinion: Poilievre’s dissing of Canada plays into Trump’s hands

December 5, 2024

The return of Donald Trump to the Oval Office presents a unique challenge for Canada-U.S. relations. Trump’s provocative statements about Canada becoming the 51st state, though implausible, underscore the power imbalance between the two nations. Poilievre’s shared populist tendencies with Trump may not translate into better relations. As Debra Thompson points out, Trump’s focus is not on ideology but on loyalty, rendering him largely unmanageable by either Canadian leader.

Trudeau’s resignation has opened the door for a new Liberal leader—potentially Chrystia Freeland or Mark Carney—who could appeal to centrist voters and challenge Poilievre’s populist appeal. As Konrad Yakabuski highlights, Poilievre’s strategy, centered on attacking Trudeau, must now adapt to confront a potentially revitalized Liberal Party. This shift presents an opportunity for Poilievre to engage in a battle of ideas rather than relying solely on criticism and slogans.

December 3, 2024

In this era of political and economic uncertainty, the key challenge for any Canadian leader is to protect the nation’s interests without succumbing to external pressures. Poilievre’s task is to navigate a political culture that values stability, compromise, and sovereignty. As Canada faces potential volatility from American policies, Poilievre must prioritize safeguarding Canada’s hard-won independence and focus on domestic strengths.

Opinion: Poilievre will need a new playbook as the Liberals pull their quarterback

October 17, 2024

Public opinion on Poilievre is divided. Some view him as a necessary change from the Trudeau era, while others criticize his populist tactics and lack of substantive policy proposals. Concerns about his qualifications and experience echo in reader comments, alongside skepticism about his ability to lead Canada through complex international relations.

Pierre Poilievre stands at a critical juncture in Canadian politics. As the nation prepares for an election that could redefine its leadership, Poilievre’s ability to adapt his strategy and engage in meaningful policy debates will be crucial. The path forward requires balancing populist appeal with pragmatic solutions that address the diverse needs of Canadians. In navigating these challenges, Poilievre has the opportunity to redefine his leadership and shape Canada’s future in a rapidly changing world.

It’s hard to ignore the impact Pierre Poilievre’s slogan “Axe the Tax” has had on his rise in the polls. For months now, this mantra has resonated with Canadians feeling the squeeze from rising interest rates, inflation, and grocery prices. It’s a powerful message that taps into the frustrations of many, convincing them that the government’s carbon pricing scheme is the root cause of their struggles. However, the real question is: what comes next?

Poilievre has yet to outline any concrete plans once he “axes the tax.” His stance on climate change is particularly concerning; he seems to downplay the crisis and lacks a comprehensive climate policy. In a recent press conference, he dismissed potential leadership rivals as “just another Justin Trudeau,” but when it comes to climate issues, he resembles Stephen Harper more than he might care to admit.

With the political landscape shifting—especially with Justin Trudeau’s resignation and Donald Trump’s looming presidency—Poilievre finds himself at a crucial juncture. He must evolve his approach beyond populist rhetoric and engage in meaningful policy discussions. With new Liberal figures like Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney ready to appeal to centrist voters, the challenge for Poilievre will be to protect Canadian interests while navigating external pressures, particularly from the U.S.

As we watch this unfold, it’s essential for all of us to stay informed and engaged. The future of Canadian politics may hinge on how leaders like Poilievre adapt to these complex challenges.

Enjoy the January 10, 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

Friday May 17, 2024

May 17, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

The Shift in Canadian Millennial Politics: From Trudeau’s Liberals to Poilievre’s Conservatives

April 13, 2024

In recent years, Canadian politics has witnessed a seismic shift, particularly among young voters. Once staunch supporters of Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party, millennials are now flocking to Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives, driven by a profound desire for change and a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo.

Professor David Colletto, Founder and CEO of Abacus Data, sheds light on this transition in his analysis. Colletto’s recent survey, conducted in February 2024, reveals a stark reality: millennials are increasingly pessimistic about the direction of the country. Only 24% believe Canada is headed in the right direction, while a staggering 58% feel it’s veering off course. Moreover, the federal government’s approval rating among millennials stands at a dismal 24%, with 56% expressing disapproval—a sentiment mirrored across other age groups.

Analysis: Will Conservatives Win the Youth Vote?

May 4, 2024

The decline in support for Trudeau’s Liberals among millennials is particularly striking. Colletto notes that Liberal support has plummeted from 45% in the 2015 election to a mere 20% today. Conversely, the Conservatives, under the leadership of Pierre Poilievre, have seen a remarkable surge in popularity among millennials. With 41% indicating they would vote Conservative, Poilievre has emerged as a frontrunner among young Canadians, surpassing even the success of previous Conservative leaders.

The reasons behind this shift are multifaceted, as Colletto suggests. Millennials, once enamoured with Trudeau’s promises of change, now find themselves disillusioned by the lack of progress under his leadership. Despite Trudeau’s initial appeal as a “millennial candidate,” his popularity has plummeted, with a net approval rating of -32 among young voters—comparable to the dissatisfaction expressed towards former Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

January 18, 2024

This disillusionment with Trudeau is compounded by a growing desire for change among millennials. As Colletto observes, young Canadians are increasingly prioritizing issues over personality in their electoral decisions. They are drawn to leaders who offer concrete solutions to pressing economic concerns such as the cost of living, housing, and inequality—areas where Trudeau’s government has fallen short.

Enter Pierre Poilievre—a figure who embodies the hope for change among young Canadians. Poilievre’s emphasis on fiscal responsibility and economic growth resonates deeply with millennials, who see him as a viable alternative to Trudeau’s stagnating leadership. Despite concerns about the potential risks of Poilievre’s policies, many young voters view him as a beacon of hope—a leader who can deliver tangible results and steer Canada towards a brighter future.

April 22, 2024

The transition from Trudeau’s Liberals to Poilievre’s Conservatives reflects a broader trend in millennial political engagement. Faced with economic uncertainty and disillusioned by the status quo, young Canadians are asserting their influence and demanding accountability from their elected representatives. As they continue to shape the political landscape, their voices will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Canadian politics. (AI)