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retrospective

Justin Trudeau: A Cartoon Chronology

March 9, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Justin Trudeau

A Cartoon Chronology | Sunday March 9, 2025 | Newsletter 20

As Justin Trudeau’s tenure as Canada’s Prime Minister nears its conclusion, the legacy he leaves is one of significant achievements, notable controversies, and enduring challenges. Over the past decade, Trudeau’s leadership has been a focal point for both admiration and criticism, capturing the complexities of his role in Canadian politics. As an editorial cartoonist, I have spent two decades chronicling his political journey, each cartoon encapsulating pivotal moments from his rise in 2015 to his leadership milestones and the trials he has faced.

My perspective was shaped by an unforgettable moment at the 2012 convention of the Association of Canadian Cartoonists in Montreal. During this event, Trudeau, then a backbench MP, mingled with us, embodying a blend of charisma and strategic foresight. In a memorable theatrical gesture, he donned his father’s iconic buckskin coat, declaring with a grin, “The jacket fits,” symbolizing his embrace of legacy and hinting at his political ambitions. This charming performance was an early indicator of his potential to lead the Liberal Party, foreshadowing the influential role he would come to play in shaping Canada’s political landscape. Charming, though not to the extent that I was ever lenient to the poor fellow. Through my cartoons, I’ve captured the essence of Trudeau’s journey, from my viewpoint, reflecting on the lasting impact he has made on the nation.

October 23, 2004

October 23, 2004 – Legacy matrimonial

This is my first drawing of Justin Trudeau capturing the occasion of his marriage to Sophie Grégoire Trudeau. Beside him looms a hulking monument to his father, the elder Trudeau, symbolizing the enigma and legacy that accompany Justin. The humor in this piece lies in the idea that with the marriage came the Trudeau legacy, hinting at Justin’s future path and the destiny seemingly foretold by his riding on his father’s coattails to power, which he achieved a decade later. Sadly, the bonds of marriage did not endure, and the couple eventually faced divorce, adding another layer to the complexities of his personal and political journey.

January 12, 2007

January 12, 2007 – Team… it is Time

As his path to leadership became clearer, Justin Trudeau emerged during a time when the Liberal government under Paul Martin was faltering. The power wielded by the party since Jean Chrétien’s era was waning, and Trudeau, young and charismatic, with his iconic hair and appeal, became the face of a new generation. By January 12, 2007, he was the rising star ready to fill the political void in the riding of Outremont, embodying both his father’s legacy and his own promise of renewed leadership for the Liberals.

September 28, 2012

September 28, 2012 – Trudeau parting the Liberal Red Sea

The Liberal Party, bruised from the faltering leaderships of Stéphane Dion and Michael Ignatieff, was ready for a new icon. Enter Justin Trudeau, likened to Moses parting the Red Sea, symbolizing his rise as a potential saviour for the party. Amidst the wave of “Justinmania,” he stood out among other hopefuls, signalling his readiness to lead with charisma and youthful vigour. Interestingly, as Trudeau made his move, Mark Carney, the central banker, was parting ways on the right, set to take on new challenges as Trudeau stepped into the spotlight.

November 17, 2015 – Growing into Defence

November 17, 2015

Justin Trudeau had just taken power and announced plans at a G20 summit for Canada to withdraw warplanes from ISIS combat missions, shifting focus to training local troops instead. This decision highlighted his preference for a more cautious, resistance-oriented approach to military involvement. His stance with NATO further underscored this, as he openly acknowledged at meetings that Canada had no intention of meeting the alliance’s spending commitments. These decisions would later be scrutinized, especially as geopolitical tensions evolved, and Canada became relegated to bit player status in global strategy. A decade later, in 2025, with figures like Trump influencing global politics, Trudeau’s earlier choices might be seen as missteps, potentially weakening Canada’s standing in international defence and diplomacy.

May 20, 2016

May 20, 2016 – Elbowgate

An involved Justin Trudeau in a commotion in the House of Commons. While trying to expedite a vote on Bill C-14 regarding physician-assisted death, Trudeau accidentally elbowed NDP MP Ruth Ellen Brosseau while attempting to guide Conservative MP Gord Brown through a group of NDP MPs. This led to significant criticism and multiple apologies from Trudeau. The cartoon depicting Trudeau in King Henry VIII garb, took inspiration from the miniseries “The Tudors”, with the parody “The Trudors,” contextualizing the dramatic nature of the event and Trudeau’s subsequent apologies, using the historical drama as a backdrop to highlight the theatrical aspects of the political mishap. I’ve depicted him as a King dealing with revolt, and alongside his royal family. In terms of the real monarchy, sometimes he got along, sometimes not so much.

June 22, 2018

June 22, 2018: Prime Minister of Pot

Justin Trudeau is often celebrated for his role in legalizing cannabis in Canada, a move that aligned with global trends as other countries and several U.S. states had already moved in this direction. Recognizing the progressive momentum, Trudeau’s government made cannabis legalization official, marking a historic moment for the nation. Trudeau, adorned in cannabis-themed robes captures the excitement and significance of ending nearly a century of prohibition, highlighting the cultural and political impact of this milestone in Canadian history. Though there are critics, the cartoon underscores the celebratory atmosphere surrounding this transformative policy change, and for many, the one and only consequential legacy for this Prime Minister.

May 28, 2019

May 28, 2019: Politics done as always

Justin Trudeau, who declared himself a feminist Prime Minister by establishing a gender-balanced cabinet, faced challenges to this agenda during the SNC-Lavalin scandal. The cartoon illustrates cracks in his feminist stance, highlighted by the resignations of Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott. These high-profile departures exposed tensions in achieving gender-balanced governance, as both women chose to run as independents, expressing dissatisfaction with party politics. This moment questioned the depth of Trudeau’s feminist commitments, capturing a significant discourse on gender and politics in Canada.

July 23, 2019

July 23, 2019: Boil Water Advisory

The cartoon depicts Justin Trudeau as the “Little Hero of Reconciliation,” suggesting that while he addresses minor issues, major concerns like clean water access in Indigenous communities persist. This criticism points to ongoing struggles in achieving genuine reconciliation and fuels accusations that Trudeau is more of a virtue signaller than a doer. Despite receiving credit for highlighting the struggles of Indigenous peoples, he is seen as falling short in tackling the more challenging calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, reflecting a gap between his public commitments and substantive action.

April 11, 2018

April 11, 2018: The Green Transition PM

The cartoon illustrates Trudeau’s carbon pricing plan as a split personality, reflecting the balancing act between environmental goals and controversial oil subsidies. This depiction captures the tension in his energy strategy, especially concerning the Trans Mountain pipeline during his tenure. While Trudeau’s government is credited for implementing a carbon pricing mechanism and committing to net-zero emissions in alignment with the Paris Agreement, the green transition is complicated by billions of federal dollars in subsidies to the oil and gas sector. Added to the ire, carve outs for regions that just so happen to overwhelmingly vote Liberal.  This dual approach underscores the challenges of pursuing environmental ambitions while navigating economic and industry pressures.

March 7, 2019

March 7, 2019: Sinking of The SNC Lavalin Scandal

The SNC-Lavalin scandal is symbolized by a sinking ship, with Trudeau rowing away in a lifeboat, his principal secretary and confidant, Gerald Butts, is depicted as the captain going down with the ship. This imagery portrays Butts as the sacrificial lamb, absorbing some of the political fallout to shield Trudeau. Despite this significant resignation, Trudeau managed to survive the controversy, and the scandal eventually faded after the Liberals retained power in the following federal election. This highlights the shifting dynamics within Trudeau’s inner circle and the broader political landscape.

September 11, 2020

September 11, 2020: WE do it all for you (and me)

WE Charity in dust, shows the Kielburger brothers running a fast-food restaurant, symbolizing the charity’s dissolution and the ethical issues that surfaced within Trudeau’s administration. This imagery challenges the integrity of Trudeau’s leadership, reflecting the broader perception of scandals during his tenure. A poll conducted by Angus-Reid as Trudeau’s era drew to a close revealed that respondents most remembered his leadership for COVID-19, followed closely by themes of scandal and corruption, including the WE Charity, SNC-Lavalin, and Blackface incidents. These controversies have left a lasting impression on Trudeau’s legacy, highlighting the challenges faced by his administration in maintaining public trust.

March 20, 2021

March 20, 2021: Vaccine life support

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed a significant vulnerability in Canada’s healthcare infrastructure: the glaring lack of domestic vaccine production capability. Procurement was slow. This limitation became evident as Canada relied heavily on international partners, particularly the U.S., for vaccine doses. Then there was mixing of vaccine remedies. The situation underscored the importance of investing in domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing to enhance self-sufficiency and preparedness for future health crises. This realization has likely prompted discussions about strengthening Canada’s domestic production capacity to ensure greater resilience in the face of global health challenges.

June 2, 2021

June 2, 2021: Gesture Politician

During his tenure, Justin Trudeau presided over a period of national self-reflection, and self-loathing, marked by actions like the toppling of Sir John A. Macdonald statues, as Canada confronted its colonial past and injustices against Indigenous peoples. The historical investigative review of Prime Ministerial misdeeds could be best described as ‘selective’ for MacKenzie King up to Jean Chretien. While Trudeau emphasized reconciliation through symbolic gestures, his pandemic measures were viewed by some as overbearing, turning him into a lightning rod for criticism among Canadians discontented with both his handling of historical wrongs and his approach to the COVID-19 crisis from pretty vicious anti-vaxxers.

August 26, 2021

August 26, 2021: First Minister Struggles

Justin Trudeau’s leadership reflects a complex interplay between his housing crisis management, immigration policy, and the symbolic state of the Prime Minister’s residence at 24 Sussex. By increasing immigration levels without provincial capacity guarantees, the housing market and essential services have faced added strain. His national housing plan sought to alleviate these pressures by making homeownership more attainable amid rising demand and prices. Meanwhile, his decision not to renovate 24 Sussex symbolizes fiscal restraint but contrasts with the broader housing challenges. This situation underscores the need for coordinated federal and provincial efforts to ensure sustainable growth and livable conditions for all Canadians.

Raising concern about Trudeau's governance due to issues like ArriveCAN mismanagement, CERB problems, and potential pitfalls of rushed decisions for political support, such as quick deals on Pharmacare and Dental care.

February 29, 2024

February 29, 2024: Serviette Policy Planning

The cartoon critiques Justin Trudeau’s governance style as one characterized by costly and hasty decisions, aimed at securing support from the NDP in a minority parliament. It highlights a series of expensive policy plans and missteps, including Pharmacare, Dentalcare, Childcare, poor accounting of CERB, the migrant influx, and the ArriveCan app. These initiatives are portrayed as rushed and inadequately planned, akin to “napkin-sketched” ideas such as the Pharmacare deal, reflecting a pattern of expensive schemes. The cartoon urges Canadians to demand greater accountability and transparency from the government, emphasizing the need for well-considered and fiscally responsible policymaking.

Justin Trudeau’s years in office have been a blend of ambitious goals, personal milestones, and political challenges. From his early rise bolstered by his father’s legacy to becoming Prime Minister, Trudeau’s leadership is marked by both achievements and controversies. He has advanced progressive policies like cannabis legalization and a gender-balanced cabinet but faced criticism for scandals like SNC-Lavalin and WE Charity, as well as for policy decisions that seemed rushed or poorly executed. One of his greatest failings was carrying through with electoral reform. His approach to immigration, healthcare, and environmental policies shows a complex balance between ideals and practical governance. While his legacy includes significant strides in social and environmental areas, it is also shaped by the controversies, embarrassments, and criticisms of his administration. Trudeau’s leadership highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and strategic planning to ensure a resilient and inclusive future for Canada.

Thank you to everyone who continues to subscribe to this weekly newsletter! I typically release posts every Saturday morning, offering a summary of the week through my editorial cartoons. My aim is to keep you informed without overwhelming you with constant notifications. Throughout the week, I also share daily ‘notes’ on my Substack, which enrich my weekly newsletters and feature animated versions of my daily cartoons.

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Posted in: Canada, Substack Post Tagged: 2025-05, Canada, Justin Trudeau, retrospective, review, Substack

Tuesday December 31, 2024

December 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

The year 2024 was marked by political upheavals, economic struggles, cultural milestones, and global crises, setting the stage for an unpredictable 2025.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 31, 2024

2024 Year In Review

The year 2024 will be remembered as a time of seismic shifts, stirring triumphs, and somber farewells. Canada and the United States were no strangers to tumult and transformation as they navigated an unrelenting tide of political, economic, and cultural change.

Canada's 2024 was a year of grappling with pressing challenges—from homelessness and healthcare to leadership and climate policies—balanced by moments of reflection, resilience, and the sharp wit of editorial insight.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Canada

In Canada, political gridlock and public dissatisfaction loomed large. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced sagging poll numbers, with voters increasingly frustrated by the affordability crisis and the government’s handling of homelessness and opioid addiction. The Bank of Canada’s vacillation on interest rates did little to inspire confidence, as Canadians grappled with rising living costs. Trudeau’s Liberal government was further destabilized by the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, sparking speculation that Mark Carney might step into the role of Finance Minister to steady the ship. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre surged in popularity with his populist promise to “Axe the Tax” on carbon, galvanizing his base as the nation braced for the possibility of a federal election. Jagmeet Singh’s NDP also remained a vocal advocate for addressing the homelessness crisis, though with limited sway in the gridlocked Parliament.

Ontario's 2024 saw Premier Doug Ford balancing bold showmanship with policy improvisation, as headline-grabbing ideas like alcohol sales expansion and a 401 tunnel met serious challenges in healthcare, housing, and climate action, leaving residents eager for real solutions amid the theatrics.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Ontario

In provincial news, Doug Ford’s government in Ontario continued to stir controversy, from banning cell phones in schools to prioritizing a spa at Ontario Place over environmental and community concerns. His ban on new bike lanes raised eyebrows and underscored his contentious approach to urban planning. Natural disasters compounded the nation’s woes, with Alberta and British Columbia ravaged by wildfires and catastrophic flooding, and Hurricane Beryl leaving a trail of destruction in Atlantic Canada. The Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster in Baltimore added another tragic chapter to the year’s challenges. Amid these struggles, Canadians found moments of unity and pride. Swimmer Summer McIntosh shone at the Paris Olympics, earning accolades for her record-breaking performances and bringing a glimmer of hope to a weary nation after the drone spying scandal that plagued the women’s soccer team. The Canadian men’s Olympic relay team delivered a stunning gold medal victory, reaffirming Canada’s athletic prowess on the world stage. Taylor Swift’s blockbuster Eras Tour concerts in Toronto and Vancouver not only dazzled fans but also injected millions into local economies. Meanwhile, the LCBO and Canada Post strikes further tested Canadians’ patience, highlighting labour issues in critical sectors.

News: 2024: Year in Review

Donald Trump’s return to power in 2024, marked by chaos, controversy, and high-stakes drama, leaves the world uncertain whether his presidency will be a fleeting spectacle or a pivotal moment with profound consequences for democracy and global stability.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Trump

In the United States, the political landscape was dominated by the dramatic return of Donald Trump, whose re-election campaign survived legal woes and even an assassination attempt. His audacious proposals, including imposing 25% tariffs and floating the idea of a 51st state, polarized the nation. Figures like J.D. Vance and Matt Gaetz played pivotal roles in rallying support for Trump, while Kash Patel emerged as a key confidant during the campaign sealing the deal for a controversial appointment to FBI director. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy faltered, overshadowed by the waning presence of President Joe Biden, whose poignant farewell address included a call for unity and resilience. As the year closed, the transition period buzzed with speculation, fuelled by Trump’s unconventional nomination suggestions, including Pete Hegseth and Elon Musk, whose political influence grew exponentially. RFK Jr. also made headlines with his independent candidacy, challenging the traditional two-party dominance.

What a headline!

Globally, the year was marked by ongoing conflict and pivotal leadership changes. The war in Ukraine entered its 1,000th day, with President Zelenskyy signalling readiness for peace talks, even as Vladimir Putin remained steadfast in his ambitions. In the Middle East, the war between Israel and Gaza expanded, pulling in Iran and Hezbollah, while the Assad regime in Syria finally crumbled. Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership in Israel was both a rallying point and a subject of intense global scrutiny. Sudan’s internal strife and Haiti’s descent into lawlessness further underscored a world in turmoil. In Europe, Keir Starmer’s election as UK Prime Minister signalled a shift in British politics, and France faced its own critical elections, reshaping its political landscape, while in Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the nation’s first female president. The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris provided a poignant symbol of resilience amidst the chaos.

The world also bid farewell to towering figures. Canada mourned the loss of Brian Mulroney and Murray Sinclair, while the U.S. grieved for Jimmy Carter. The arts lost luminaries such as Maggie Smith, Alice Munro, James Earl Jones, and Quincy Jones, leaving behind legacies that will endure for generations.

News: Year in review: Notable people who died in 2024

Among the more unusual figures to capture the public’s imagination was Luigi Mangione, a notorious criminal convicted of killing a private health executive. Despite his heinous crime, Mangione garnered a bizarre social media cult following, with supporters romanticizing his actions as a misguided rebellion against systemic injustices in healthcare.

Amid these heavy moments, there were sparks of joy and cultural milestones. Glen Powell and Anna Sawai captivated audiences with standout performances, while athletes like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles rewrote the history books. Canada celebrated its own cultural moments with the continued rise of emerging artists and a significant presence in global cinema, spearheaded by the Toronto International Film Festival’s record-breaking attendance. Breakout musical acts like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter gave the world its soundtrack, and viral moments like the “Dancing with the Stars” leg lift brought levity to the digital age. The cinematic triumph of “Oppenheimer,” crowned with multiple Oscars, reminded audiences of the enduring power of storytelling.

1997: The year that was

As 2025 dawns, the world holds its breath. Canada may be on the cusp of a federal election, with Pierre Poilievre poised to challenge Trudeau’s grip on power. In the U.S., Trump’s second term could see dramatic shifts in domestic and international policy, from sweeping trade changes to potential statehood ambitions. Figures like Tim Walz are expected to play a crucial role in mediating partisan divides, while AI and space exploration may see further breakthroughs with Musk’s continued investments. Global conflicts could de-escalate—or intensify—depending on fragile negotiations in Ukraine and the Middle East. The rise of AI, which integrated seamlessly into daily life in 2024, might accelerate in unexpected ways, reshaping industries and personal lives alike.

Climate scientists are predicting another year of extreme weather, but advances in renewable energy and sustainability may offer glimmers of hope. And who knows? With Elon Musk’s influence continuing to grow, perhaps Mars colonization will take its first tangible steps in 2025.

The year ahead promises to be as unpredictable as ever, with moments of brilliance and hardship intertwined. If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that resilience and innovation remain humanity’s most powerful tools. Here’s to the adventures—and challenges—that 2025 will bring.


As I put the finishing touches on my year-end illustration for the Hamilton Spectator, I find myself reflecting on what 2024 has brought us. It’s a great honour to have the A1 assignment for the final edition, especially after 28 years as an editorial cartoonist. However, I can’t help but feel a bittersweet twinge, given the uncertain future of print media.

This year has been marked by political upheaval, economic struggles, and cultural milestones that remind us just how unpredictable our times can be. In Canada, we witnessed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grappling with rising living costs and public frustration, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made waves with his populist promises. Doug Ford’s controversial decisions in Ontario added to the mix, sparking debates on everything from urban planning to environmental concerns.

On the other side of the border, Donald Trump’s dramatic return to the political stage kept everyone on their toes, overshadowing Joe Biden and raising questions about the future of American politics. Meanwhile, global crises continued to unfold, leaving many of us feeling a mix of concern and urgency.

But amidst all the chaos, there were moments of unity and pride. Athletes like Summer McIntosh and events like Taylor Swift’s concerts brought joy and a sense of hope to a weary nation. It’s these glimmers of light that I tried to capture in my illustration, weaving in Easter eggs and references for those who still cherish the print version of the newspaper.

As we look ahead to 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Will Canada face a federal election? How will Trump’s second term unfold?

While the future feels uncertain, one thing is clear: resilience and creativity will be our guiding lights. Here’s to embracing the adventures and challenges that the new year will undoubtedly bring!

Wishing you all a wonderful start to 2025!

Enjoy the December 31, 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

Posted in: Canada, Entertainment, International, Ontario, USA Tagged: 2024-23, Canada, Chrystia Freeland, Donald Trump, International, issues, Joe Biden, Justin Trudeau, Kamala Harris, Mark Carney, Obit, Pierre Poilievre, retrospective, UK, USA, Year in review

Friday December 27, 2024

December 27, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Canada's 2024 was a year of grappling with pressing challenges—from homelessness and healthcare to leadership and climate policies—balanced by moments of reflection, resilience, and the sharp wit of editorial insight.Graeme Gallery 2024: Canada

Canada as we knew it in 2024 | December 27, 2024 | Substack Newsletter

Posted on December 27, 2024 to The Hamilton Spectator

The year 2024 was anything but dull for Canada, with big challenges and defining moments shaping the nation’s story. From the growing homelessness crisis and debates over mental health care to political maneuvering on climate policies and leadership struggles, the headlines reflected a country grappling with complex issues. Internationally, Canada faced pressures on defence spending and foreign interference, while scandals and setbacks in sports and politics added unexpected twists. Through it all, editorial cartoons captured these events with humour and insight, shining a light on both our successes and shortcomings.

As Christmas approaches, a lamentation over broken promises and governmental failures at all levels, particularly in cities, reveals the stark reality of the homelessness crisis in Canada, with blame games and jurisdictional disputes overshadowing the urgent need to legalize housing and address the root causes.Thursday December 21, 2023: As Christmas lights twinkle, encampments of unhoused Canadians shiver in the cold while Trudeau, Ford, and city councils stay cozy indoors. Blame flies, but housing solutions remain frozen.

 

Proposing MAID expansion to include solely mentally ill patients in Canada poses risks due to unpredictable mental health trajectories, blurred distinctions between suffering and suicide, and the potential to incentivize death over addressing prolonged mental health care wait times.Tuesday January 16, 2024: The expansion of MAID for mental illness finds clarity where waitlists for mental health care, primary care, and social housing remain as muddled as ever. The irony is sharp and tragic..

 

Pierre Poilievre's backing of Alberta's controversial transgender policies seems more about playing to social conservatives than considering the potential harm to vulnerable youth.Friday February 9, 2024: Pierre Poilievre screeches toward Danielle Smith’s approval with his support for Alberta’s controversial transgender policies, leaving rubber marks on vulnerable youth in the process..

 

Trudeau and Ford agree on $3.1 billion for healthcare, tackling hospital issues. Meanwhile, Jagmeet Singh pushes for a national drug plan after Trudeau gives in on dental care. It's a political contrast before Valentine's Day.Wednesday February 14, 2024: Valentine’s Day politics: Trudeau gifts Ford $3.1 billion in healthcare cash while Jagmeet Singh sulks, holding out for his national drug plan. Love is complicated in Ottawa.

 

Canada must enhance efforts to meet NATO’s 2% defence spending target, reinforcing its obligations and commitments to global security.Friday March 1, 2024: After splurging on domestic priorities, Liberal ministers awkwardly avoid eye contact with NATO’s defence spending collection plate. The global stage is calling, but their wallets seem shy.

 

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday March 2, 2024 Reflecting on Brian Mulroney's passing, a celestial scene contrasts with a contemporary tableau of present federal leaders engaged in an uncivilized punch-up, highlighting the disagreeable nature of today's political discourse and its evolution.Saturday March 2, 2024: Brian Mulroney ascends to celestial peace, while below, Canada’s current political leaders turn Parliament into a boxing ring. The contrast between dignity and dysfunction couldn’t be starker.

 

The recent surge in measles cases in Canada, particularly in Montreal, underscores the urgent need to address vaccine hesitancy and combat anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, with historical evidence emphasizing the proven efficacy of vaccines in preventing disease and protecting public health.Wednesday March 6, 2024: Measles makes an unwelcome return, greeted with open arms by anti-vaxxers in Montreal. Vaccines work, but conspiracy theories seem to work faster.

 

Fossil fuel industries receive $5 billion annually in federal subsidies, while funds circulate through taxes and rebates in a carbon pricing scheme—a stark yet realistic facet of the green transition.Tuesday April 2, 2024: Big Oil pigs gorge on $5 billion in subsidies while Trudeau hands taxpayers crumbs disguised as carbon rebates. The green transition sure is lucrative—for some.

 

Canadian inquiries into foreign interference highlight the challenge of maintaining transparency without aiding adversaries, emphasizing the importance of careful oversight and accountability in protecting democratic processes.Saturday April 6, 2024: Canada’s open inquiries into foreign interference attract dark stares from global adversaries. Transparency is noble, but the eyes of India, Iran, Russia, and China suggest it might also be risky.

 

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.Saturday June 22, 2024: Justin Trudeau channels Joe Strummer in a punk-rock existential crisis: “Should I stay or should I go now?” With plummeting popularity, the decision is far from clear.

 

Canada's women's soccer team has marred the start of Paris 2024 with a scandal involving espionage through a drone, casting a shadow over their Olympic reputation and joining the ranks of infamous state-sponsored cheating scandals.Thursday July 25, 2024: Canada’s women’s soccer team crashes spectacularly at the Paris Olympics, with a drone espionage scandal deflating their reputation like a soccer ball kicked into the Eiffel Tower.

 

Many political leaders, once champions of carbon pricing, are now abandoning their principles and pandering to populist pressures for electoral gain, sacrificing crucial climate action in the process.Saturday September 14, 2024: “Axe the Tax” fever sweeps the country as unlikely allies Crombie, Singh, and Eby join Poilievre in pandering to populist demands. Climate action, once a rallying cry, is now a whispered regret.

 

Canada must confront U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s provocative meddling, including sovereignty-eroding rhetoric, damaging trade policies, and misogynistic attacks, with a coordinated and decisive response to reaffirm its independence and global standing.Thursday December 12, 2024: Trump obsesses over Canada’s snow globe, ignoring other global crises on his toy shelf. Trudeau must decide whether to shake things up or wait out the storm.

 

Tuesday December 17, 2024: Chrystia Freeland storms off, leaving Trudeau abandoned on the dance floor of his political career. The cracks in his leadership grow into gaping chasms.

Screenshot

As we look ahead to 2025, the lessons of 2024 remain fresh. Canada faces hard decisions on leadership, the environment, and the state of our democracy. While the challenges are significant, the past year has also reminded us of the resilience and determination needed to move forward. With humour, humility, and a clearer view of what’s at stake, we step into the new year ready to face whatever comes next.

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Graeme Galleries:  Canada 2023 | Canada 2022 | Canada 2021 | Canada 2020

Posted in: Canada, Substack Post Tagged: 2024-23, Canada, Graeme Gallery, retrospective, Substack

2018: Trump Year in Review

December 29, 2018 by Graeme MacKay
December 22, 2017
December 22, 2017
January 13, 2018
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March 3, 2018
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October 25, 2018
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October 31, 2018
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November 3, 2018
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November 6, 2018
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November 14, 2018
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November 30, 2018
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December 4, 2018
December 4, 2018

2017 Review of Donald Trump

Posted in: USA Tagged: 2018, 2018 editorial cartoons, Donald Trump, Graeme Gallery, retrospective, year-end review

2018: Hamilton in Review

December 28, 2018 by Graeme MacKay
January 9, 2018
January 9, 2018
February 7, 2018
February 7, 2018
March 13, 2018
March 13, 2018
March 31, 2018
March 31, 2018
August 14, 2018
August 14, 2018
September 8, 2018
September 8, 2018
September 12, 2018
September 12, 2018
October 20, 2018
October 20, 2018

Extra Gallery

January 20, 2018
January 20, 2018
April 24, 2018
April 24, 2018
May 24, 2018
May 24, 2018
May 2, 2018
May 2, 2018
July 21, 2018
July 21, 2018
October 23, 2018
October 23, 2018
October 5, 2018
October 5, 2018

2017 Hamilton Year in Review

Posted in: Hamilton Tagged: 2018, 2018 editorial cartoons, Fred Eisenberger, Graeme Gallery, Hamilton, LRT, retrospective, year-end review
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