MacKay - Canadian Editorial Cartoons
mackaycartoons

Graeme MacKay's Editorial Cartoon Archive

  • Who?
  • Copyright
  • Boutique
  • Kings & Queens
  • Prime Ministers
  • Presidents
  • The French Monarchy Project
  • DOWNLOADS

Substack

Tuesday April 22, 2025

April 22, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

As Canadian political parties promise tax cuts without detailing spending cuts, voters face uncertainty about potential austerity measures post-election.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday April 22, 2025

Austerity on the Horizon

The absence of costed platforms from major Canadian political parties leaves voters without crucial fiscal insights, posing risks to informed decision-making.

April 18, 2025

As Canada approaches its 45th general election, a familiar narrative unfolds: political parties promising tax cuts while remaining vague about the inevitable spending cuts required to balance the books. With platforms that hint at financial prudence but fail to provide detailed roadmaps, both the Liberal and Conservative parties leave voters facing an uncertain fiscal future.

Historically, election platforms have served as a blueprint for governance, offering voters insight into a party’s priorities and fiscal strategies. However, recent campaigns have witnessed a shift towards platforms filled with undefined savings and broad commitments rather than specific financial plans. The Conservatives, for example, have been open about reducing foreign aid and defunding the CBC as part of their cost-cutting measures. Yet, these areas alone cannot compensate for the extensive tax cuts promised, leaving a substantial gap that must be filled by other, undisclosed means.

News: Poilievre pledges platform ‘soon’ after Liberals, NDP release costed campaign plans

Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.

April 12, 2025

Similarly, the Liberals tout fiscal prudence, suggesting efficiency improvements in government spending. However, the absence of specifics raises questions about which programs or services might face the axe. Both parties are accused of strategic obfuscation, delaying the release of fully costed platforms to minimize scrutiny and maximize voter support during early voting periods.

With Canada’s economy already grappling with significant debt and high deficits, the promise of tax cuts seems at odds with fiscal sustainability. The looming threat of trade tariffs from the Trump administration adds another layer of complexity, demanding financial commitments to bolster the economy against external shocks. In this context, austerity measures—whether acknowledged or not—appear inevitable.

April 9, 2012

Austerity often translates into spending cuts in essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. While these are rarely highlighted in campaign rhetoric, history shows that governments frequently turn to these areas when seeking to balance budgets. The lack of transparency in detailing these potential cuts leaves voters in the dark, reminiscent of past political strategies where campaign promises diverged significantly from post-election actions.

The current election cycle’s lack of detailed financial planning risks voter disillusionment. As seen in the UK, where the Labour Party’s campaign promises did not align with subsequent austerity measures, Canadian voters may find themselves facing unexpected fiscal policies once the dust of the election settles. This disconnect underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in political platforms.

Pierre Poilievre faces challenges adapting his strategy against the fresh leadership of Mark Carney, as Canada's political dynamics shift from opposition to unity.

March 15, 2025

It is essential for parties to provide clear, realistic financial plans that outline how tax cuts will be funded and what spending adjustments are anticipated. Without such transparency, platforms become mere wish lists rather than actionable blueprints for governance.

As Canadians head to the polls, they do so with a sense of uncertainty about the fiscal path ahead. Whether led by the Liberals or the Conservatives, the next government will likely face the challenge of implementing austerity measures to reconcile campaign promises with economic realities. Voters deserve more than vague assurances; they need concrete plans that address both the opportunities and sacrifices required to achieve fiscal stability. Only then can they make informed decisions about the future direction of their country.


Austerity is Coming La La La, not listening!

In the current political climate, spending cuts are often whispered in hushed tones, especially when addressing crowds outside partisan strongholds. Politicians tend to focus on tax cuts, painting them as the ultimate relief for voters. However, those in partisan circles, like Pierre Poilievre, openly discuss defunding initiatives that irk their base, such as the CBC and foreign aid. The Liberals, on the other hand, remain vague about their intentions, hiding behind terms like “Spending Reviews” and “Program Adjustments” without revealing what might face the chopping block.

The truth is, Canadians should brace themselves for significant cuts in the near future, a reality that’s becoming increasingly apparent on the global stage. In the United States, Trump, through Elon Musk, is aggressively slashing spending across federal departments. Meanwhile, in the UK, even the left-leaning Labour Party under Keir Starmer is undertaking deep cuts, surpassing anything the Conservatives dared to implement during their long tenure.

Austerity is looming over Canada, and now is the time to demand transparency from our leaders. While Conservatives are relatively candid about the fiscal austerity they plan to introduce, the Liberals are more elusive. Yet, if the polls are accurate and they secure another term, the mystery will quickly unravel.

It’s crucial for Canadians to seek clarity and accountability from their political leaders. Austerity is on the horizon, and understanding its implications is vital to navigate the challenges ahead.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, austerity, Canada, Conservative Party, economic pressure, education, election, execution, fiscal responsibility, healthcare, Liberal Party, national debt, platform, promises, spending cuts, Substack, tax cuts, transparency, U.S. tariffs

Saturday April 19, 2025

April 19, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Pierre Poilievre's plan to invoke the notwithstanding clause threatens Canadian democratic norms and sets a dangerous precedent for federal governance.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 19, 2025

Poilievre’s Notwithstanding Gamble: A Risky Precedent for Canada

The concerns regarding Pierre Poilievre's casual use of the Notwithstanding clause include the potential undermining of the balance of power, diminishing the importance of Charter rights, the risk of misuse and abuse, and setting a dangerous precedent for future governments.

May 4, 2024

In a political landscape increasingly characterized by divisive rhetoric and the erosion of democratic norms, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s pledge to invoke the notwithstanding clause of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a troubling signal. His proposal to use this powerful constitutional tool to impose consecutive life sentences for multiple murderers may tap into populist sentiments, but it sets a dangerous precedent that should disqualify him and his party from gaining the reins of power.

December 14, 2022

The notwithstanding clause, or Section 33 of the Charter, allows federal and provincial governments to override certain Charter rights temporarily. Traditionally, its use has been confined to provincial matters, such as Quebec’s secularism laws, where it has already sparked controversy. No Canadian Prime Minister has ever used this clause at the federal level, and for good reason. It represents an extraordinary measure intended for exceptional circumstances, not a tool for advancing populist agendas.

December 6, 2022

Poilievre’s willingness to be the first Prime Minister to wield this clause reflects a concerning alignment with tactics seen south of the border under Donald Trump. Trump’s efforts to undermine the judiciary and politicize the courts have led to a weakening of the checks and balances that are foundational to American democracy. Canadians should be wary of similar trends taking root here.

News: Poilievre’s pledge to use notwithstanding clause a ‘dangerous sign’: legal expert

Critics, including legal experts and political leaders, have voiced strong opposition to Poilievre’s plan. They warn that normalizing the use of the notwithstanding clause for routine legislative purposes could erode the Charter’s protections and lead to further politicization of fundamental rights. This slippery slope could extend beyond criminal justice, potentially threatening academic freedom, reproductive rights, and other areas where individual liberties might clash with political agendas.

Pierre Poilievre faces challenges adapting his strategy against the fresh leadership of Mark Carney, as Canada's political dynamics shift from opposition to unity.

March 15, 2025

Public sentiment, as reflected in reader comments and broader discourse, reveals deep apprehension about Poilievre’s intentions. The use of the notwithstanding clause is seen not only as an overreach but also as an indication of Poilievre’s authoritarian tendencies—a “trumpy” approach that prioritizes personal opinion over established legal norms. Such a path risks alienating those who value the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

News: Poilievre says he’ll use notwithstanding clause to ensure multiple-murderers die in prison

While both Trump and Poilievre use populist slogans and insults to galvanize supporters, Poilievre has thus far avoided Trump’s more extreme policies, opting to focus his populist messaging on economic concerns.

November 9 2024

Poilievre’s tough-on-crime rhetoric may resonate with certain voter bases, but the implications of his proposals extend far beyond immediate policy goals. They strike at the heart of Canada’s democratic values and the delicate balance of power that protects citizens’ rights. As we approach the upcoming election, it is crucial for Canadians to consider the long-term consequences of granting power to a leader willing to circumvent the Charter for political gain.

In a time when global democratic institutions face unprecedented challenges, Canada must stand firm in upholding its principles. Poilievre’s promise to invoke the notwithstanding clause is a stark reminder of the stakes at play. It is a promise that, if fulfilled, could fundamentally alter the landscape of Canadian governance. For this reason, it stands as yet another compelling argument.


“Notwithstanding Clause” no doubt instantly triggers eye glazing in vast swaths of Canadians, a nation where many voters remain unaware of its implications until they feel the impact firsthand. Pierre Poilievre, echoing Trump, is using populist outrage to justify potentially overriding judicial independence with the notwithstanding clause, signalling a troubling shift towards authoritarianism. What might have been seen as fear-mongering before an election becomes irrelevant once a movement takes power. When these accusations no longer trigger instinctive reactions, they solidify into harsh realities. Just look south for proof of this. Timbit Trump’s promise to enforce life sentences by bypassing court decisions raises concerns about future threats to constitutional rights, drawing unsettling parallels with recent U.S. politics. Today, Poilievre targets criminal sentencing, but despite denying admiration for Trump, he emulates many strategies from the Trump playbook, suggesting he might next challenge academic freedom, women’s rights, or other constitutional protections. This commitment to undermining judicial independence to consolidate power is the pivotal issue of this election, as it echoes the U.S. pattern of filling the judiciary with like-minded judges and defying court rulings, reflecting a desire to centralize authority. Sure, just what democracy ordered: another leader eager to override court decisions with his own, thanks to the trusty notwithstanding clause. Vote for this at your peril.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 19, 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: Easter Bunny Rejection  https://youtu.be/jDyQEaocYGc

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, authoritarian, Canada, Charter, clause, Democracy, Donald Trump, Easter, easter bunny, election, federal, freedoms, governance, Independence, Judiciary, justice, Lady Justice, Notwithstanding, overreach, Pierre Poilievre, populist, precedent, rights, Substack

Thursday April 17, 2025

April 17, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Trump's rhetoric and policies loom over Canada's leaders' debate, influencing politics and personal decisions.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday April 17, 2025

The Shadow of Trump in Canada’s Leaders’ Debate

Canada's snap election offers a pivotal opportunity for voters to decide the nation's direction amid economic and geopolitical challenges.

March 21, 2025

As the leaders of Canada’s major political parties prepare to take the stage for tonight’s crucial debate, the spectre of Donald Trump’s influence looms large. While domestic issues such as affordability, healthcare, and housing remain critical to Canadians, it is the external pressure from an increasingly autocratic U.S. president that has captured the national focus. Trump’s imposition of tariffs and withdrawal from multilateral agreements has not only strained Canada’s economy but also reshaped the global political landscape, leaving Canada in a precarious position.

The recent comments by White House Press Briefing Room spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, reiterating Trump’s desire to annex Canada as the 51st state, have only added fuel to the fire. What might seem like bluster or a strategic distraction has tangible effects on Canadian society and politics. This rhetoric, highlighted by Susan Delacourt’s column, underscores Trump’s metaphorical presence in the Canadian election, influencing both policy and public perception.

Opinion: The other leader at this week’s federal election debates: Donald Trump

 

Canada's hockey win over the USA becomes a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience amidst political tensions with Trump.

February 22, 2025

The implications of Trump’s policies and rhetoric are far-reaching. Canadians are increasingly cashing out their U.S. vacation homes, driven by fears of economic penalties and a sense of unwelcome. As reported by the Wall Street Journal, the political uncertainty has altered shopping patterns and investment decisions, with many Canadians reconsidering their ties to the U.S. This shift is not merely economic but deeply personal, as Canadians grapple with the erosion of goodwill and trust with their southern neighbour.

Video: Trump believes Canadians would ‘benefit greatly’ from becoming 51st state, White House rep reiterates

Mark Carney's pragmatic approach gains momentum against Pierre Poilievre's faltering rhetoric, reshaping Canada's political landscape.

February 20, 2025

Tonight’s debate offers a platform for leaders like Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre to articulate their visions for addressing this complex relationship. Carney’s economic expertise and diplomatic finesse will be tested as he seeks to reassure Canadians of their sovereignty and stability. Poilievre, known for his aggressive stance, will need to demonstrate his capability to handle Trump’s unpredictability while advocating for Canada’s interests.

The stakes are high. Trump’s rhetoric and actions have inserted themselves into the very fabric of Canadian politics, creating a sense of urgency and existential threat. The leaders must confront not only the immediate economic impacts but also the broader implications for Canada’s identity and autonomy.

Analysis: Canadians Are Cashing Out Their American Vacation Homes

September 9, 2021

As Canadians tune in to the debate, they will be looking for leaders who can stand firm against external pressures while fostering a resilient and prosperous nation. Tonight’s discussion will be pivotal in shaping the narrative of Canada’s future, amid the challenges posed by a shifting global order and a neighbour whose policies and rhetoric demand serious consideration. The time for decisive leadership is now, and Canadians will be watching closely to see who can rise to the occasion.


Karoline Leavitt steps into the spotlight from a podium marked “The White House, Washington,” boldly proclaiming, “The President maintains his position that Canadians would benefit greatly by becoming the 51st state.” As Canadian leaders Mark Carney, Jagmeet Singh, Yves-Francois Blanchet, and Pierre Poilievre exchange worried glances, the scene becomes a satirical jab at U.S. influence on Canadian politics. With Trump’s policies already creating economic ripples and Leavitt’s reputation for stirring controversy, the debate feels more like a theatrical performance. Her knack for mixing up pronouns, historical events, and even dinosaurs adds a layer of comedic absurdity, leaving everyone wondering if the true spectacle is the debate or the delightful chaos of her statements.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 17, 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!

April 17, 2025 | Trump in the Debate  https://youtu.be/7YzWH2iEwYY

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-08, 51st state, annexation, Canada, debate, Donald Trump, Elbows up, election, Jagmeet Singh, Karoline Leavitt, knockout, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, Substack, tariffs, USA, Yves-François Blanchet

Wednesday April 16, 2025

April 16, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Ontario faces the dual challenge of countering U.S. tariffs while addressing internal issues in healthcare, housing, and social services, amid the Speech from the Throne.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 16, 2025

Ontario’s Balancing Act and Tariffs and Turmoil

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

March 26, 2025

Ontario’s government has delivered the Speech from the Throne, marking a pivotal moment in the province’s journey through complex domestic and international challenges. Premier Doug Ford’s administration has laid out its agenda, highlighting efforts to counter U.S. tariffs and address pressing internal issues.

In the speech, the government pledged to remove barriers to interprovincial trade and expedite approvals for new mines in the Northern Ring of Fire region, emphasizing its strategic importance to Ontario’s economy and security. This move reflects a commitment to economic resilience and a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies, underscoring that “Canada will never be the 51st state.”

The Throne Speech also reaffirmed Ontario’s dedication to the electric vehicle and battery industry, securing significant investments and maintaining a leadership role in North America. Despite critiques of substantial subsidies from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, the province remains committed to supporting this vital sector.

News: Trump and Ontario’s tariff response likely to dominate Ford’s throne speech

Canada finds itself compelled to retaliate against Trump's aggressive tariffs on steel and aluminum, with Doug Ford leading the charge, as the nation seeks to protect its economic interests.

March 12, 2025

Domestically, the speech addressed the need for immediate action in healthcare, housing, and social services. Ford’s administration recognizes the urgency of reducing wait times, improving housing affordability, and tackling social issues such as homelessness, poverty, mental health, and drug addiction.

The ambitious infrastructure plan, including a new tunnel expressway under Highway 401, is part of a broader $200-billion initiative to enhance transit and economic efficiency in Ontario, despite potential high costs.
The Ontario government’s resolve to navigate both international pressures and domestic challenges is evident. The Speech from the Throne serves as a comprehensive blueprint for strengthening the social fabric of the province, ensuring economic stability, and improving the quality of life for Ontarians.

As the government implements these plans, Premier Ford’s leadership will be measured by his ability to protect Ontario’s interests on the global stage while delivering tangible improvements to the lives of its citizens. The path forward requires a careful balance of diplomacy, innovation, and investment, with Ontarians keenly observing the government’s actions in this critical period.


Shopping for Thrones

Donald Trump seems to have quite the royal flair, doesn’t he? His foray into politics comes complete with all the pomp and circumstance you’d expect from a would-be king. From turning rallies into theatrical spectacles to ceremonies that have you wondering if a crown might appear, he’s certainly not shy about projecting a larger-than-life image.

His leadership style, marked by attempts to expand his power and tweak the rules, draws cheers from his fans who love the break from tradition. Meanwhile, critics are left clutching their pearls, worried about the potential for a royal takeover.

Trump’s fascination with all things regal seems like both a play for power and a personal love affair with the grandeur of monarchy. As his influence lingers, his royal tendencies keep everyone talking.

In my editorial cartoon for Wednesday, I poke a bit of fun at this ongoing dialogue about Trump’s king-like ambitions—a theme I can’t help but revisit. Today’s Speech From The Throne in Ontario consumed by the threat of Trump tariffs seemed like an apt occasion to put him in the scene.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 16, 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!

April 16, 2025 | Shopping For Thrones   https://youtu.be/N3Jjxg8R21g

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2025-08, collaboration, Donald Trump, Doug Ford, Economy, Edith Dumont, homelessness, infrastructure, mental health, not for sale, Ontario, Poverty, Queen's Park, resilience, Social services, Speech from the Throne, strategy, Substack, tariffs, throne

Old Relics of Reform & the Yippie Brigade: A Week to Remember

April 12, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Old Relics of Reform & the Yippie Brigade: A Week to Remember
Saturday April 12, 2025 | Newsletter 26

We’ve reached the halfway mark in Canada’s pivotal federal election campaign—because isn’t every federal election touted as the ‘most crucial’ of our time? This one does feel significant, especially with two fresh faces competing for power, each presenting vastly different visions for the country. It’s the kind of political drama that emerges only every decade or so.

What makes this moment even more compelling are the seismic shifts happening globally. Our closest neighbour and ally seems to be stepping back from its role as the leader of the free world, trading stability for chaos. Just this week, the Oval Office showcased a new kind of circus, with Trump turning the U.S. from a financial safe haven into what feels like a chaotic casino—think Monopoly, but with all the rules tossed aside.

Naturally, the antics of the American spectacle have overshadowed the unfolding drama at home, where two familiar faces from Canada’s reform conservative past have re-emerged to bolster Pierre Poilievre, who—borrowing from prairie musician Corb Lund—seems to be stuck in the mud at 37%, while the Carney Liberals cruise ahead with a steady 6% lead.

To wrap up the week, I explored Mark Carney’s midway challenges, highlighting his struggle to fend off attempts to undermine his support. The coming week will be crucial for the Liberal leader as he prepares for two high-stakes televised debates—one in English and the other in French. This will be no easy task for an anglophone who hasn’t had much practice.

 

We’ve Already Been Invaded | Saturday June 1, 2013

To ease into this week’s blend of federal election commentary—accompanied by the usual side dish of Trump—I present a rerun from 2013 that reflects on the 200th anniversary of the hostilities and battles between the U.S. and its northern neighbour. A piece that ran on CBC News reported on Canadian War of 1812 re-enactors choosing to forgo participation in commemorative battles in the U.S. due to hostility and threats of annexation from Trump. This poignant narrative highlights like-minded individuals who share common passions with friends in the U.S. but feel compelled to stand alongside many other Canadians opting out of vacations south of the border, shopping for groceries without the Stars and Stripes, and cancelling services in favour of Canadian alternatives. These bold gestures of patriotism are commendable, but let’s be honest: as the cartoon points out, Canada was invaded long ago, and we left the door wide open to let it happen.

Amid rising separatist sentiments and tensions in Western Canada, the need for dialogue and compromise is paramount to address regional grievances while promoting national unity.

Beaver-tales and Political Sails | Tuesday April 8, 2025

Amid rising tensions of Western alienation, the latest cartoon features Danielle Smith, Scott Moe, and Preston Manning dramatically holding a gun to a beaver’s head—symbolizing the heated discussions around Western secession. With polling averages showing the Liberals gaining ground ahead of the April 28 election, Manning’s controversial comments highlight concerns about national unity as Alberta and Saskatchewan face economic challenges in the fossil fuel sector. In this scene, the political focus seems to shift toward centrism, with Mark Carney emerging as a steady, if somewhat dull, leader. While past polls under Justin Trudeau suggested predictable minority governments, the current situation calls for renewed confidence and unity, especially in light of external pressures like Trump’s policies. As the electoral landscape changes, the nation watches closely, wondering if Carney’s calm approach can help bridge the divide and lead Canada toward a more united future.

A Strong Manning-Date | April 8, 2025

Wednesday April 9, 2025: Bring Out Your Fossils
Pierre Poilievre stands at a podium boldly emblazoned with “MAKE FOSSILS GREAT AGAIN.” As he rallies against the Liberals, the echoes of his recent gathering in Edmonton, which drew a crowd of 12,000, fill the air. For the first time ever in Canada, crowd sizes are being seen as a measure of political momentum, despite the polls explored in Tuesday’s cartoon. Who does that remind us of? In the cartoon, a stone-carved image of Stephen Harper serves as another reminder of the lasting influence of past political figures, while a second appearance of Preston Manning’s ancient likeness looms, adding depth with his cautionary tale of the creeping shadow of Western alienation. This cartoon contrasts the enduring beliefs of the past with Canada’s current political struggles, highlighting the ongoing tug-of-war over national unity. Poilievre’s attempt to energize the Western Conservative base by summoning these Reform ghosts may rally his supporters but risks alienating Progressive Conservatives who are drawn to Mark Carney’s centrist appeal. Amidst the unyielding legacy of Reform icons and internal party divisions with leaders like Danielle Smith, Doug Ford, and Tim Houston, one playful question arises: Can a leader who embraces the past truly shape the future? As this political comedy unfolds, Canada watches with a mix of amusement and concern, wondering if past relics can lead us into tomorrow.

Make Fossils Great Again | April 9, 2025

Trump's aggressive trade policies, particularly against China, create risks and uncertainties in an already fragile global economy.

Thursday April 10, 2025: The Great Tariff Backfire
This news story broke in the early afternoon, carrying such weight that I had to abandon the cartoon I was in the midst of drawing and switch gears. It finally saw the light on Saturday, as detailed below. The editorial cartoon that emerged captures the topsy-turvy world of President Trump’s tariff policies with a “before and after” scenario. In the top panel, “TRUST,” adorned with stars and stripes, sets the stage as Trump, the maestro of surprise, holds a string attached to a “TARIFFS” bomb, counting down with dramatic flair. The bottom panel reveals the aftermath: “TRUMP,” cracked and smoking, pondering the chaos without a hint of embarrassment. The word “PAUSE” whimsically suggests a moment of reconsideration amidst the turmoil. The straightforward message illustrates how one man, in less than 100 days of his presidency, has shattered global trust in the United States through a bizarre and thoughtless scheme. He proposes a 90-day pause so countries can “make a deal” with the U.S. on further trade arrangements. Keep an eye out for tomorrow’s cartoon to explore that notion further. But if it isn’t clear to most, is a deal, like the one he made with Canada and Mexico on free trade, truly meaningful? This satirical piece highlights how Trump’s trade decisions, aimed at protecting American interests, have instead created global uncertainty and strained international relations. As of April 10, 2025, it’s been 3,585 days since Trump’s famous escalator ride, and the rollercoaster of his presidency continues to leave the world both dizzy and bemused.

Trump Tariff Backfire | April 10, 2025

Trump's erratic tariff strategy has isolated the U.S., damaging trust and alliances while raising suspicions of market manipulation.

Friday April 11, 2025: Tariffs, Trade, and the Trump Show
Everyone knows Trump is all about “the deal.” His name is attached to the book “The Art of the Deal” (even if someone else wrote it), so he should be a master negotiator, right? Here, we’re all contestants in President Trump’s latest episode of “Let’s Make a (Trade) Deal!” His abrupt tariff impositions and pauses have turned international politics into a spectacle of unpredictability, leaving global allies scratching their heads and questioning America’s strategy. With trust fraying at the seams, critics compare Trump’s decision-making to a circus act, where strategic opportunities with China are missed, and the nation finds itself isolated on the world stage. Meanwhile, whispers of insider trading echo through the halls of power, as many wonder who might have been tipped off about the tariff U-turn. The economic chaos has not only wiped out investments but also cast a shadow over America’s credibility.

Trump Wants to Make a Deal | April 11, 2025

Mark Carney leverages his dual role as Liberal leader and Prime Minister to address economic challenges and political dynamics, including a significant gender gap, in Canada's federal election.

April 12, 2025

Saturday April 12, 2025: Midway Mark: Carney’s Tightrope Tango
The editorial cartoon featuring Mark Carney, the Liberal leader, reflects his real-life electoral journey—a path filled with bear traps labelled “Misinformation,” “Alpha Males,” and “Right Wing Media,” along with a gaping manhole marked “Conspiracy Theories.” As Carney tiptoes toward “Election Day,” he balances the tightrope of financial expertise and political skill. With the Liberals leading in polls at 44% to 49%, Carney dances ahead of a skeptical Pierre Poilievre, whose supporters question the legitimacy of data, echoing Trump’s playbook in the U.S. While Poilievre’s camp shakes their fists from the shadows, Carney navigates international trade tensions and domestic issues like housing, all while avoiding the pitfalls of conspiracy theories—often a favourite tactic of his rivals. The caption, “Just past the midway Mark,” captures the essence of Carney’s campaign: a whimsical yet challenging dance through a political landscape that resembles a flat earth debate, all while keeping a steady rhythm toward leadership.

Midway Mark Carney | April 12, 2025

As we approach the crucial week ahead, with just 16 days until the election, Mark Carney faces a pivotal moment to seal the deal and secure a majority government. The upcoming televised debates will be his last chance to solidify support and navigate the challenges posed by misinformation and skepticism. Meanwhile, we can count on the spectacle from Trump world to deliver its usual dose of bizarre antics, likely to be a focal point in next week’s cartoon week in review. It’s an exciting time in Canadian politics, and all eyes will be on how these debates shape the final stretch of the campaign.

Cartoon Shorts: an onlive archive of animated editorial cartoons on Youtube.

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.

Please Subscribe. It’s free!

Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will always be free. Thank you for your continued support!

Posted in: Substack Post Tagged: 2025-08, Substack
« Previous 1 2 3 … 26 Next »
...Check it out and please subscribe!

Your one-stop-MacKay-shop…

T-shirts, hoodies, clocks, duvet covers, mugs, stickers, notebooks, smart phone cases and scarfs

2023 Coronation Design
Follow Graeme's board My Own Cartoon Favourites on Pinterest.

MacKay’s Virtual Gallery

Copyright © 2016 mackaycartoons.net

Powered by Wordpess and Alpha.

DMCA.com Protection Status
Loading Comments...