Stephen Harper – mackaycartoons

Wednesday April 9, 2025

April 9, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 9, 2025

Harper’s Comeback: A Rallying Cry or Risky Rewind?

February 15, 2025

In a strategic move that highlights the ongoing influence of the Reform wing within the Conservative Party, Stephen Harper has re-entered the political spotlight, endorsing Pierre Poilievre in a bid to rejuvenate a sagging campaign. Harper’s recent appearance at a rally in Edmonton, along with Preston Manning’s warnings about another Liberal government, underscores a concerted effort to appeal to the party’s Western base and its historical roots in the Reform movement.

However, this reliance on former leaders from the Reform side may resonate well in Alberta and other Western provinces, where the Reform legacy still holds significant sway, but it offers little to inspire enthusiasm beyond these regions. The absence of strong representation from the Progressive Conservative faction within the current Conservative Party under Poilievre reflects a notable shift in the party’s identity, leaving some Progressive Conservatives feeling alienated.

News: Stephen Harper says Canada’s problems not created by Trump as he endorses Pierre Poilievre

April 13, 2024

Harper’s endorsement, as reported by Laura Stone in The Globe and Mail, frames Canada’s current challenges as a result of Liberal policies rather than external factors like the Trump administration. This narrative aims to position Poilievre as the leader who can steer Canada in a new direction. However, as Ryan Tumilty’s article in The Toronto Star illustrates, Harper’s criticism of Mark Carney—suggesting that Carney overstated his role during the 2008 financial crisis—highlights a strategic attempt to bolster the Conservative narrative at the potential cost of alienating centrists who value Carney’s economic expertise.

Preston Manning’s recent involvement, issuing warnings about the consequences of another Liberal government, further emphasizes the Reform wing’s influence. Yet, this approach may struggle to galvanize support among voters who align more closely with the Progressive Conservative tradition. Many of these voters may find themselves more inclined to support a candidate like Carney, who embodies a moderate, centrist approach that aligns with their values.

News: Fissure among Conservatives undermining Poilievre’s pitch he’s a national unifier: experts

By Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday August 24, 2013

Reader comments from the articles provide additional insight, revealling skepticism about Harper’s and Poilievre’s appeal beyond the core Reform supporters. The comments reflect a polarized perspective, with some viewing Harper’s return as a reminder of past controversies and others questioning Poilievre’s ability to unify the country.

To succeed on a national scale, the Conservative Party under Poilievre must find a way to bridge these internal divides and offer a platform that resonates with a broader Canadian electorate. Without this balance, the party risks limiting its appeal to its traditional strongholds, making it challenging to expand its reach beyond the Western provinces. The path forward requires not just energizing the base but also embracing a more inclusive and pragmatic approach that can win the confidence of centrists across the country.

Bring Out Your Fossils

As one observes the current landscape of Canadian politics, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Pierre Poilievre is facing significant challenges, not just from the electorate, but from within his own party. The divisions within the Conservative Party are glaring, raising a critical question: Is this the type of leader Canada truly wants?

It’s no secret he doesn’t have a lot of allies in his party that he can call close friends.

Just as an aside, are we tired yet of seeing/hearing those grating political ads about solid protective arms and borders wrapping proud flags and brave soldiers?

Poilievre’s struggles to unify his party are a red flag. If he can’t foster cohesion among his own members, how can he possibly hope to unite a diverse nation? His inability to see eye to eye with key provincial leaders such as Danielle Smith in Alberta, who is vocal about Western frustrations, further highlights a disconnect that is hard to ignore. Meanwhile, his lack of alignment with Doug Ford’s Big Blue Machine in Ontario and differing perspectives with Tim Houston in Nova Scotia only underscore the ideological rifts within the party.

This disunity is further highlighted by the recent rally, where he felt the need to enlist his old boss Stephen Harper, a rejected figure from the past, to lend his voice. It’s almost as if he’s trying to resurrect a bygone era to compensate for a lack of contemporary leadership. Moreover, Preston Manning’s re-emergence from private life to express his concerns is telling. It signals a deeper sense of desperation within the party. The ghosts of the Reform Party are making a haunting appearance, and it seems like a last-ditch effort to rally the base. Yet, these figures from the past may not resonate with today’s broader electorate.

The situation begs the question: Can a leader mired in internal conflict and reliant on past figures truly guide Canada forward? It’s a moment of reflection not just for the Conservative Party but for the country as a whole. As we move forward, we must consider whether a leader with such divisive challenges is equipped to handle the complexities of leading an entire nation.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 9, 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

Saturday February 15, 2025

February 15, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 15, 2025

A Call to Fly the Flag with Pride

As we approach the 60th anniversary of Flag Day, a moment of profound reflection and unity is upon us. The gesture by Canada’s living former prime ministers—Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper—urging Canadians to fly the country’s flag with pride comes at a time when national unity is both challenged and needed more than ever. This call to action is not merely symbolic; it is a powerful rallying cry for Canadians to stand together in the face of external pressures and internal reflections.

June 3, 2015

Canada finds itself navigating a complex political landscape, particularly with U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated taunts about making Canada the 51st state. Such remarks are more than just words; they are provocations that strike at the heart of Canadian sovereignty and identity. Even the most reserved Canadians must feel a surge of indignation at these bullying and ignorant assertions. In this context, flying the flag becomes an act of defiance and a statement of resilience, reminding us of our strength and independence.

News: Five former PMs urge Canadians to show national unity on Flag Day, in the face of Trump’s ‘threats and insults’

July 27, 2024

While waving the flag is a unifying gesture, it must be accompanied by concrete actions. Canada’s future prosperity and security depend on reducing inter-provincial trade barriers, bolstering defence capabilities, and forging new alliances beyond the United States. These actions will not only strengthen our economy and security but also affirm our sovereignty on the global stage.

November 9, 2018

The former prime ministers’ call to fly the flag also signifies a reclamation of this national symbol. In recent years, the Canadian flag has been a marker of national reflection, flown at half-mast to acknowledge past injustices against Indigenous communities. It was also co-opted by far-right movements, such as the Freedom Convoy, which espoused anti-science and anti-multilateralist views. By urging Canadians to display the flag with pride, these former leaders are reclaiming it as a symbol of unity, diversity, and shared values.

News: Patriotism, a big rally and, of course, new slogans: Inside Pierre Poilievre’s Trump-induced strategy shift

November 17, 2023

As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our flag, let us heed the call of Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper. Let this day be a reminder of what it means to be Canadian—a nation strong in its diversity, proud of its heritage, and unwavering in its commitment to unity and progress. By flying our flag, we not only honour our past but also commit to a future where we stand together, resilient and proud, against any challenge that comes our way.

I’m really impressed by how our former Prime Ministers—Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, and Stephen Harper—are stepping up to reclaim the Canadian Flag on its big 60th anniversary. They’re doing a fantastic job of reminding us what the flag truly stands for: unity, pride, and resilience. I was nice to draw caricatures of them.

Shameless Plug: I sell Prime Minister merch here.

During the pandemic, our flag got hijacked by a bunch of far-right extremists waving Trump banners and spouting nonsense that had nothing to do with Canadian values. It’s about time we yanked it back from those folks who seemed more interested in conspiracy theories than community.

But let’s be real, the flag’s been through the wringer before. Prior to the Freedom Convoy, some left-wing activists took it to extremes, turning essential conversations about reconciliation with Indigenous peoples into a broader narrative of shame about Canada.

This all led to tearing down statues and renaming places tied to figures like Sir John A. Macdonald, who caught a lot of flak for things he did way back when. Meanwhile, other Prime Ministers, whose actions are also up for debate these days, still have their statues standing tall. It’s a bit of a mixed bag. The inconsistency extends to airports, hospitals, and schools still bearing names of other historical figures, making it all feel pretty selective.

It’d be great if the “Team Canada” Prime Ministers could push for a more balanced look at these historical symbols. Maybe bring back some statues and place names, recognizing our full history instead of cherry-picking what to remember. This could really complement their current efforts, helping us see the whole picture of our past and what our flag truly represents.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday April 13, 2024

April 13, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 13, 2024

The Peril of Blind Faith in Leaders

In the turbulent landscape of Canadian politics, the trajectory of leaders often mirrors the ebb and flow of public sentiment. From Justin Trudeau’s buoyant “Sunny Ways” to Pierre Poilievre’s resolute call to “Axe the Tax,” the resonance of political slogans underscores the power of messaging in shaping public perception. Yet, behind the rallying cries lies a cautionary tale of blind faith and the perils of placing unwavering trust in charismatic figures.

Abacus Data Poll: Conservatives open up their largest lead yet

September 28, 2012

Trudeau’s ascent to prominence in 2015 was marked by the optimistic promise of “Sunny Ways,” an ode borrowed from Wilfrid Laurier that evoked a spirit of positivity and inclusivity. The rallying cry encapsulated Trudeau’s appeal as a unifier, promising a departure from the adversarial politics of the past. Canadians embraced this vision of hope, drawn to Trudeau’s youthful energy and progressive agenda.

However, the stark realities of governance soon tempered the sunny optimism. Promises of electoral reform faltered, controversies emerged, and disillusionment crept into the public consciousness. The fall from grace was a stark reminder that political charisma alone cannot sustain enduring trust.

June 14, 2022

Today, we witness the rise of Pierre Poilievre, whose mantra to “Axe the Tax” resonates with disaffected segments of society grappling with economic challenges. Poilievre’s unapologetic stance against carbon pricing embodies a populist fervour, tapping into frustrations over rising costs of living and government interventions. The simplicity of “Axe the Tax” belies deeper complexities, yet it strikes a chord with those yearning for decisive action.

As Poilievre’s star ascends, it is imperative to heed the lessons of history. Political slogans, while captivating, should not serve as substitutes for critical analysis and informed scrutiny. The allure of a bold disruptor must be tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, recognizing that governance demands more than catchy phrases and populist appeals.

Analysis: Poilievre’s Youth: Meet the young voters supporting the Conservatives

September 1, 2018

The parallel trajectories of Trudeau’s “Sunny Ways” and Poilievre’s “Axe the Tax” highlight the cyclical nature of political fervour. The initial euphoria of a new era often gives way to sobering realities, underscoring the importance of vigilant citizenship and active engagement.

The pitfalls of blind faith in leaders are manifold. It fosters a cult of personality that prioritizes rhetoric over substance, stifles dissent, and discourages nuanced discourse. By succumbing to the allure of political slogans, we risk overlooking the complexities of governance and the need for evidence-based policymaking.

In an era marked by uncertainty and rapid change, the imperative for critical analysis cannot be overstated. As Pierre Poilievre garners support with his rallying cry, let us approach with discernment and vigilance. Let us challenge oversimplifications and demand substantive solutions that address the complexities of our times.

March 5, 2012

The narrative of political leadership is a dynamic interplay of ideals and realities. By embracing skepticism and eschewing blind faith, we honour the principles of democracy and empower ourselves as vigilant stewards of our collective future.

In the pursuit of a resilient democracy, let skepticism be our compass and critical analysis our guiding light. As slogans come and go, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to informed engagement and unwavering scrutiny, recognizing that true progress demands more than mere adulation—it requires diligent citizenship and an unwavering dedication to the common good.

Together, let us navigate the currents of politics with clarity and foresight, ensuring that the lessons of history guide us towards a future shaped by informed decision-making and principled leadership. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give illustration a try:

Tuesday September 13, 2022

September 13, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

September 13, 2022

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday September 13, 2022

Firebrand Poilievre now starts the hard search for wider support as a no-pivot party leader

It’s a daring experiment by the Conservatives – overwhelmingly elect a hard-right fire-breathing leader and expect enough voters to gravitate in his direction to win a federal election.

September 14, 2021

That wasn’t the case with post-Harper leaders Andrew Scheer and Erin O’Toole, who shifted right-wing positions toward the mainstream in what became a futile effort to find broader voter support.

But there’ll be no waffling in the political winds by steamrolled-to-victory Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre; no pivoting to a kinder, gentler, mushy middle to win over voters. That’s just not in Poilievre’s DNA.

This makes Saturday’s commanding leadership win (with 68 per cent of the ballots) the easy part of Poilievre’s ultimate goal to become prime minister.

The baby-faced 43-year-old partisan pit-bull faces an even tougher test now to reposition himself as leading a viable government-in-waiting.

His next quest has bedevilled Conservatives and indeed majority-seeking Liberals for the last two decades: Where to find the crucial five per cent bump in voting support that it takes to win a federal election?

It’s not a simple search. His oratorical assault on elites, gatekeepers and the ArriveCAN app easily fires up those fed-up and frustrated with Justin Trudeau’s preachiness and his open-the-vault response to every politically correct cause.

But to corral votes further left politically and further east geographically would seem a mission impossible, particularly given that the issues he’s attacking are now losing some of their traction.

May 13, 2022

Poilievre’s preoccupied with “Justinflation” that’s easing slightly courtesy of a Bank of Governor he wants to fire. Meanwhile, the cryptocurrencies Poilievre advocated as a safe monetary alternative are in the dumpster and the illegal “Freedom Convoy” he supported for protesting vaccine mandates he opposed are a repressed memory and unlikely to be revived.

And then there’s his party unity problem.

While he delivered a classy outreach to rival camps on Saturday night, lasting damage has been done to the progressive wing of the party after his campaign trash-talked rivals as unworthy Conservatives from the opening bell of this seven-month leadership brawl. You can bet distant-second-place-finisher Jean Charest and his pathetic 16 per cent of voting party members will not lift a finger to help a Poilievre-led party. Ever.

That suggests we’ll see an Official Opposition that’s a Reform reincarnation – and that will be a tough sell in urban Ontario and B.C., a seat expansion challenge in Quebec and register at best modest support growth in Atlantic Canada.

All is not lost, of course.

August 5, 2022

The Liberal government is failing to deliver basic services on multiple fronts, has unleashed inflation-fuelling budgets and is led by a Prime Minister whose popularity is at a personal low. This government seems hell-bent to defeat itself.

Poilievre, for his part, is going to be a masterful Opposition leader, slicing and dicing the Trudeau Liberal cabinet with devastating quips and clips on the government’s economic failures and working-class letdowns, many of which were nicely previewed in his feisty victory speech.

Anyone watching Question Period starting next week will see his exquisitely entertaining eviscerations of Justin Trudeau, which will stand in favorable contrast to a Prime Minister who pretends not to hear his questions while reading staff-scripted responses.

And with two-thirds of the Conservative caucus behind him and that massive convention victory, Pierre Poilievre will undoubtedly get something Scheer and O’Toole didn’t – two election campaigns before the party does its usual dump-the-loser-leader routine.

December 3, 2015

But his longer-term success depends on swaying the undefined, unpredictable and risk-adverse voters in Central Canada and B.C. who usually christen the election winner and do it while sticking to his controversial positions.

If those voters don’t pivot to firebrand Pierre Poilievre, well, congratulations Conservatives — you’ve just voted yourself four more years or longer in Official Opposition. (Don Martin – CTV)

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 …

Thursday July 28, 2022

July 28, 2022 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 28, 2022

Stephen Harper says Pierre Poilievre has the best chance to win the next federal election

May 18, 2022

Former prime minister Stephen Harper says Pierre Poilievre is the Conservative leadership candidate with the best shot at leading the party to victory in the next federal election.

Harper’s declaration came in a Monday evening video posted to Facebook and Twitter, in which he described Poilievre’s ability to galvanize support from new members as a critical ingredient for success.

“That’s how we win the next federal election, and in my opinion, Pierre has made by far the strongest case,” Harper said.

Poilievre’s campaign claims to have signed up more than 300,000 members to vote in the leadership race.