Poilievre’s New Game Plan: Charting a Course in Carney’s Canada
March 14, 2025
As Canada’s political scene shifts, Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party face new hurdles with Mark Carney stepping in as the Liberal leader. Poilievre’s strategy has long focused on opposing Justin Trudeau, leveraging criticism and combative rhetoric. However, with Trudeau stepping down and Carney taking charge, this approach may no longer resonate as effectively.
Mark Carney brings a fresh perspective and a solid reputation from his financial career. His leadership style, perceived as calm and competent, stands in contrast to Poilievre’s aggressive tactics. Recent polls show Carney is viewed more favourably in several leadership areas, which could spell trouble for Poilievre, who has thrived on opposing a now-absent Trudeau.
Furthermore, Poilievre’s alignment with rhetoric similar to Donald Trump’s, using phrases like “woke” and “globalist,” may alienate voters who are looking for unity rather than division. This is especially critical as Canada faces external pressures from Trump’s policies, such as trade tariffs. Poilievre’s core supporters, often likened to “Maple MAGA,” may appreciate this stance, but it risks isolating those seeking a more inclusive approach.
Herein lies Poilievre’s internal conflict: the dilemma of whether to cut ties with the “Maple MAGA” ideology that has both anchored and propelled his political journey. This weight, adorned with the familiar yet burdensome motifs of nationalism, presents a significant decision point. To sever this connection might mean broadening his appeal to a wider electorate, yet maintaining it could secure the steadfast loyalty of his current base.
With Carney offering a hopeful vision, Poilievre needs to adjust his strategy. Attacking Carney might appear desperate if Canadians view Carney as a beacon of positive change. The Conservatives must shift from merely opposing to proposing real solutions that address Canada’s needs.
In this new political era, Poilievre has the chance to broaden his appeal by focusing on unity and constructive policies. Success will depend on adaptability and addressing the issues that matter most to Canadians, shaping the country’s future leadership and direction. Whether Poilievre decides to embrace change or cling to the familiar weight of “Maple MAGA” will be a testament to his vision for Canada’s future.
In the world of Canadian politics, my editorial cartoons aim to capture the multifaceted challenges faced by our leaders. Yesterday’s cartoon highlighted the main challenge for Prime Minister Mark Carney: the baggage he inherits from Justin Trudeau. Bringing hand-me-down ministers into his cabinet offers convenient fodder for the Conservative narrative that his leadership is merely an extension of the “Sunny Ways” Liberal government of yesteryear. While some appreciated this portrayal, others took umbrage—one commenter even calling me a “3rd rate cartoonist.”
For those who are blinded by partisanship they probably shouldn’t pay attention to editorial cartoons. Our designs in editorial cartoons is to draw out the uncomfortable hard truths even to those afflicted by an incurable case of political stalwarts.
For the critics, today’s cartoon might offer a fresh perspective. This time, I depict Pierre Poilievre shackled to “Maple MAGA,” a term that encapsulates the base of supporters who echo the alt-right and far-right rhetoric. Despite my attempts, I couldn’t fit “Timbit Trump” into the illustration, though credit is due to Karina Gould for coining it. This is the first time I’ve used “Maple MAGA” in a cartoon, and it aptly describes Poilievre’s supporters who parrot narratives from American MAGA influencers like Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson.
Their rhetoric often drops terms like WEF, Soros, and Globalist, peppered with phrases like “Justine Trudope” or “Justinflation,” adding a distinctly Canadian twist—hence, “Maple MAGA.” Both Poilievre and his base are experiencing a bit of an identity crisis. The notion of “Canada First” seems unlikely to resonate against a backdrop of global interdependence, especially when compared to the isolationist “America First.”
Poilievre’s contemplation of cutting foreign aid reflects this struggle, as he remains unable to unshackle himself from the support of his crucial base. Whether these depictions resonate or provoke, my hope is to spark meaningful dialogue about the paths these figures are carving out for Canada’s future.
Please enjoy the making-of my Saturday March 15, 2025 editorial cartoon:
Ford’s Early Gamble Pays Off: Ontario’s Vote Against Trump Turmoil
Young Doug Ford: The Series
Doug Ford’s quest to seek a strong mandate from Ontario voters, a full 18 months before the set election date, can be seen as a strategic move deeply entwined with the tumultuous political climate influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s rhetoric, often perceived as unpredictable and controversial, has not only riled up Canadians but also provided Ford with an opportunity to consolidate his political strength in Ontario.
In calling an early election, Ford positioned himself as a leader ready to protect Ontario’s economy from the looming threats of U.S. tariffs. By framing the election around the need for a robust mandate to confront these challenges, Ford managed to shift the narrative from domestic controversies to international economic concerns. His campaign emphasized his visits to Washington, where he sought to lobby U.S. lawmakers and defend Ontario’s interests, a move that resonated with voters wary of Trump’s trade policies.
This strategic pivot allowed Ford to capitalize on the anxiety surrounding international trade and align himself with Ontarians’ desire for stability and economic security. The narrative of standing up against external threats created a unifying theme for his campaign, overshadowing some of the criticisms related to his governance, such as issues with healthcare, housing, and environmental policies.
Polls leading up to election day indicated that Ford’s gamble was paying off. A significant lead over his rivals suggested that his message resonated with a broad spectrum of voters. The Progressive Conservatives appeared poised to secure a third consecutive majority government, an achievement that would place Ford in rare company in Ontario’s political history.
The polls revealed not just a lead in popular support but also a strategic advantage across various demographics and regions. Ford’s ability to appeal to both traditional conservative bases and swing voters concerned about economic stability gave him a comprehensive edge. The data suggested that despite underlying dissatisfaction with some provincial directions, many voters still saw Ford as the best option to navigate the uncertain global economic landscape.
In contrast, Ford’s opponents, while focusing on crucial domestic issues like healthcare and housing, struggled to gain the same level of traction. The Liberals and New Democrats faced the challenge of presenting a compelling alternative narrative in a climate dominated by concerns over U.S.-Canada relations.
As Ontario voters headed to the polls, it became clear that Ford’s early election call, although risky, was a calculated move that leveraged international dynamics to reinforce his leadership. By deftly capitalizing on Trump’s rhetoric and the subsequent economic concerns, Ford positioned himself not just as a provincial leader but as a key player in navigating Ontario through the complexities of global politics.
Doug Ford’s quest for a strong mandate, framed around the issue of Donald Trump, underscored his strategic acumen in aligning provincial politics with broader geopolitical concerns. The polls pointed to a likely victory, affirming that Ford’s approach resonated with voters seeking stability and decisive leadership in uncertain times. As the election unfolded, it was evident that Ford’s gamble on early elections and his focus on economic defence had solidified his path to securing the strong mandate he sought.
Subscription Membership Has its Privileges (My morning after the election cartoon only you and a few get to see before everyone else)
Creating editorial cartoons during an election is a dance with uncertainty, where the risk of choosing the right narrative before the results roll in is both thrilling and daunting. In the past, I’d sketch out multiple scenarios, each capturing different outcomes for Ontario’s political landscape: a PC majority, a surprise NDP surge, or a Liberal comeback. But with deadlines closing in before the polls, the luxury of waiting for results has vanished.
The “Young Doug Ford” series is my playful take on these times, where satire meets the unpredictable nature of politics. This particular piece, featuring a youthful Donald Trump in oversized fur, surrounded by Doug Ford and his buddies with their humourous “mandates,” was a gamble. My editor’s nervousness was palpable—what if the election didn’t align with the cartoon’s narrative? But that’s the beauty and risk of editorial cartooning: capturing the spirit of the moment, even if the specifics remain uncertain.
Gone are the days of newsroom hustle after polls close. The immediacy of digital deadlines has replaced the tactile adjustments of ink and paper. Editorial board meetings with party leaders and meet-and-greets with candidates that once enriched our perspectives are fading memories. Today, many candidates dodge public forums and media questions, a trend that mirrors the disconnection felt by voters. This disengagement challenges cartoonists to find fresh ways to connect with audiences, using humour and creativity to spark conversation in an era of political fatigue.
In this shifting landscape, the creative process remains an anchor. It’s about interpreting the zeitgeist, taking risks, and sometimes, embracing the uncertainty. Even as the times change, the mission of editorial cartoons—to provoke thought, entertain, and challenge the status quo—remains steadfast, a testament to the enduring power of satire in political discourse.
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 28, 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!
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 26, 2025
Tariffs and Tumbles: Ford’s Housing Crisis Unresolved
October 18, 2024
As Ontarians get ready to vote, the housing crisis remains a major issue that Premier Doug Ford’s government hasn’t properly tackled. Instead of focusing on affordable housing solutions, Ford has turned attention to upcoming tariffs from the Trump administration, which are likely to raise the costs of building materials. This distraction comes at a time when many can’t afford homes and homelessness is increasing.
Ford’s decision to call an election 18 months early was partly based on these tariffs, yet his government hasn’t offered a clear plan to deal with the resulting cost hikes. Critics note that spending on affordable housing and homelessness has barely changed over the past decade. Meanwhile, homelessness has jumped by 25% since 2022, affecting 81,000 people in 2024. The government’s response has been weak, focusing on clearing homeless encampments instead of finding long-term solutions.
Since Ford took office, the average home price in Ontario has shot up by 42%, exceeding national rates. Housing construction is lagging, and the goal of building 1.5 million homes by 2031 seems far off, with a shortfall of 740,000 units. Ford’s approach has been more reactive than proactive, failing to tackle the root causes of the crisis. The reluctance to support family-friendly housing and co-op models, along with zoning and bureaucratic delays, has hindered progress. Even the Housing Affordability Task Force’s recommendations have largely been ignored.
Despite these challenges, voters seem ready to give Ford another majority. This is puzzling, given that the opposition parties have proposed more robust plans. The NDP and Greens want to increase housing density and legalize four-plexes, while the Liberals aim to lower homeownership costs by reducing development charges.
Ford’s lack of a clear strategy amid upcoming tariffs and his poor handling of the housing crisis are missed opportunities to build trust and secure Ontario’s future. Housing is not just an economic issue; it’s about providing everyone with a decent place to live. As Ontarians vote, they should demand leadership that addresses housing affordability with real solutions, not just talk. The province’s future depends on it.
It’s frustrating to watch a government that has utterly mishandled the housing issue in Ontario escape proper scrutiny in a sneaky snap election campaign. The evidence is all around us: from the rising number of encampments to the staggering statistics that show a lack of affordable housing options, it’s clear that the Ford government has failed to address this critical issue. Rental prices have skyrocketed, and homelessness continues to grow, reflecting a dire need for immediate action.
While there are other elements at play, like the aftermath of the pandemic and federal immigration policies adding pressure, the Ford government’s focus on Trump tariffs during the election seems misplaced. They’ve dropped the ball, particularly with the Greenbelt fiasco and the absence of a viable alternative plan. It’s evident that any hope for a well-thought-out strategy for what’s to come has been squandered.
How they’re still leading so far ahead in the polls is beyond me. With the election nearly here, it’s disheartening to see leadership that prioritizes distractions over solid action on housing issues. Many are left wondering if they’ve seen enough real action or just a lot of hot air. My job isn’t to suggest a better party to vote for, but to point out the weaknesses of a party given its record—and this government has performed poorly. This is my final opportunity to vent before Ontario heads to the polls on Thursday. If you’re aware of current events, be sure to vote — apathy may lead to the worst outcome, and what a shame that would be.
Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 26, 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!
Canada stands at a crucial moment, caught between longstanding commitments to global security and the pressing need to defend its own sovereignty. As tensions rise with our powerful neighbour, the United States, we can’t afford to be complacent about our defence spending any longer. It’s time for Canada to swiftly enhance its military capabilities, meet NATO commitments, and ensure our national security.
For years, Canadian governments have fallen short of the NATO spending target of 2% of GDP. This isn’t a new issue, and responsibility lies with both Liberal and Conservative administrations. The Russian invasion of Ukraine, especially the 2014 annexation of Crimea, should have been a wake-up call. Yet, despite global threats, Canada has lagged within NATO, prioritizing domestic social programs over military readiness.
Under Presidents Obama and Biden, the U.S. reminded Canada of its obligations. But with Donald Trump back in the presidency, the tone has changed dramatically. His frustration with NATO members who aren’t meeting their commitments is clear. His threats to pull the U.S. out of NATO and talk of annexing Canada as the 51st state are not just bluster; they demand action.
The Liberal Party has offered different timelines for meeting NATO commitments. Defense Minister Bill Blair aims for 2027, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau initially set 2032. Leadership hopeful Mark Carney has proposed 2030. This inconsistency creates confusion at a critical time.
On the other hand, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre hasn’t provided a clear timeline for meeting the NATO target. While he criticizes the Liberal government’s defence spending as inadequate, his reluctance to set clear goals leaves a gap in strategic planning. At a time when decisive action is needed, ambiguity weakens Canada’s position on the global stage.
Canadians must recognize that enhancing our defences isn’t just a response to Trump’s provocations; it’s a long-overdue acknowledgment of our role on the global stage. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with Russia’s aggression and China’s assertiveness challenging international order. Canada must contribute meaningfully to global security to fulfill NATO commitments and protect its own sovereignty.
While it may be unpalatable to divert funds from social programs to defence spending, national security is paramount. Defending the Arctic, controlling the Northwest Passage, and reducing reliance on U.S. military assets are essential. Projects like the Gripen fighter and domestic military manufacturing are crucial steps toward self-reliance.
The era of relying on U.S. protection is over. Canada must strengthen ties with like-minded nations, invest in its military, and present a united political front. As one reader suggested, a united approach where MPs work together on national objectives is essential. This collective resolve will show the world that Canada is serious about its defence and sovereignty.
Canada must act swiftly to increase military spending, not only to meet NATO obligations but to protect our nation against evolving threats. The lack of clear leadership and commitment from political leaders is a disservice to Canadians. We must prioritize national security, strengthen our defence capabilities, and assert our sovereignty with confidence and resolve.
I’ve opted to steer away from the latest spectacles surrounding Trump, such as his outlandish proposal to transform Gaza into a luxury destination dubbed the “Riviera of the Middle East.” While it’s tempting to engage in the Mara-Gaza mockery of such ideas, I believe it’s more productive to address the urgent issues facing Canada, which I’ve strived to do in my latest cartoon. This cartoon is designed as another instance in my repertoire of far-out concepts that you’ll seldom find another editorial cartoonist exploring. It whimsically captures Canada’s precarious position between the pressures of Trump and Putin, emphasizing the need for increased defence spending—symbolized by the beaver pointing to bottles of “Horseradish Defence” and hot sauce labelled “Military Spending.”
Canada faces significant challenges that require our immediate attention. With escalating tensions from Russia to the north and an unpredictable U.S. administration to the south, enhancing our military capabilities and ensuring national security has never been more critical. While meeting NATO commitments is important, we must also prioritize being prepared to defend our own nation.
Additionally, breaking down trade barriers between provinces is essential to foster a more united and robust domestic market. As highlighted in my cartoon yesterday, economic unity is vital for reducing reliance on volatile international markets.
Our political leaders have been vague about their military strategies, resulting in confusion about Canada’s defence plans. Canadians deserve clear and decisive action, especially during these uncertain times.
Though reallocating funds from social programs to defence is challenging, ensuring national safety must come first. A strong military foundation provides the stability needed for social programs to flourish.
Call me hawkish on this. I don’t care.
While it’s vital to remain informed about global issues, our primary focus should be on what’s best for Canada. We can express concern for international injustices, but our main priority should be protecting our sovereignty and addressing our domestic priorities with urgency.
In essence, while global distractions abound, Canadians must focus on the real challenges at hand. By strengthening our internal systems and preparing for external threats, we can secure a stable and prosperous future for Canada.
Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 7, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!
Canada’s Struggle in the Shadow of Trump’s Tariff Tactics
January 23, 2025
In the turbulent wake of Donald Trump’s economic strategies, Canada finds itself confronting an unprecedented challenge: the potential integration into what could be termed an “External Revenue Service,” a mechanism designed to enforce America First policies through economic leverage. This strategy was starkly highlighted by Trump’s recent address in Davos and his swift tariff threats against Colombia, signalling a broader intent to reshape global economic ties without regard for traditional alliances or past camaraderie.
Trump’s approach, focused singularly on U.S. interests, leaves no room for nostalgia over historical partnerships. The longstanding image of Canada as a friendly neighbour and close ally now seems irrelevant in the face of a policy that prioritizes American economic supremacy above all. As evidenced by Trump’s dealings, whether through threats of tariffs or dismissive rhetoric, he is unconcerned with preserving the cozy relationships of the past.
Canada, perceived as weak in this new paradigm, must confront the uncomfortable truth: it has no choice but to find ways to work with the current U.S. administration. The diplomatic norms and alliances that once offered security and support have shifted, with allies now hesitant to challenge the economic might of the U.S. for fear of becoming the next target. The silence from international friends, as Canada stands alone in its protest, underscores this new reality where each nation is left to fend for itself.
This situation is further complicated by Canada’s struggles with internal issues, such as meeting NATO defence commitments and diversifying its economy. The reader comments from The Globe and Mail highlight frustrations with Canada’s historical reliance on the U.S. market and the inadequacy of its defence spending. These systemic weaknesses make Canada more susceptible to external pressures and less able to assert its sovereignty.
In this transformed landscape, Canada must adapt swiftly and decisively. This means embracing a multifaceted strategy that reduces dependency on the U.S. and fosters resilience. Strengthening economic ties with other global partners and investing in national defence are imperative steps. Canada must also advocate for fair trade practices in international forums, leveraging its reputation for diplomacy and cooperation to navigate these choppy waters.
Furthermore, Canada must recognize that the norms of the past have changed. The path forward involves cooperation where necessary, but also innovation and independence. By diversifying its economic base and reinforcing its national capabilities, Canada can position itself not just to survive, but to thrive in this new world order.
Ultimately, the challenge posed by Trump’s policies is a call to action for Canada to redefine its place on the global stage. By adapting to these new realities, Canada can ensure its sovereignty, strengthen its economy, and secure a future that is less reliant on the whims of its powerful neighbour. The journey will be challenging, but it is a necessary evolution for a resilient and self-reliant Canada.
Today’s editorial cartoon comes with a sense of resignation. I drew it as the day unfolded with the President’s appalling press conference associated DEI hiring of air traffic controllers for Wednesday night’s horrific midair collision over the Potomac River. Are we really surprised he blamed disabled people to rile up his base?
It’s just another day in the ‘Golden Age’, and he’s barely even started.
Over to the issue closer to home…
In “Groundhog Day 2025,” the cartoon captures a familiar scene—one we’ve been through repeatedly since Donald Trump’s initial rise to power and his first term in office. Just like the endless loop in the movie “Groundhog Day,” Canada finds itself facing the same challenges over and over with Trump’s relentless push for “America First.”
Depicted as a beaver, our national symbol humorously acknowledges the routine, knowing all too well that we’ve seen this play before. Trump’s aggressive stance now, perhaps amplified in his second coming as Trump 2.0, is a stark reminder of his disregard for past friendships and cozy alliances. His focus is on strengthening U.S. interests, treating even close allies like Canada as mere pawns.
With an aloof Uncle Sam wrapped in Trump’s “America First” tie and a worried globe watching, the cartoon reflects the global unease with Trump’s tactics and their broader implications. This repeat rhetoric, now more assertive, underscores the harsh reality Canada faces as an example in Trump’s playbook.
Despite being seen as one of the U.S.’s closest allies, Canada’s situation highlights that past partnerships hold little weight in this new era. As our allies stand aside, dealing with similar pressures, Canada must adapt, finding ways to work with Trump while also seeking independence from our heavy reliance on the U.S.
This cartoon isn’t just a funny take on a serious issue; it’s a call for Canada to recognize the changed norms and embrace a strategy of cooperation and diversification. It reminds us that while we might be stuck in a seemingly perpetual loop, there’s always a chance to change the outcome by adapting and learning from the past.
Please enjoy the January 31, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Posts come out every 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. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!
