Substack9

Saturday January 18, 2025 | Substack Newsletter 11

This past week has been a whirlwind in Canadian politics, characterized by a flurry of provincial activities against the backdrop of an impending new U.S. presidential term under Donald Trump. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith adopted a notably aggressive stance on Alberta First policies, while Doug Ford emerged as a key figure in efforts to unite Canada against external threats, particularly the anticipated economic conflict with the U.S. Simultaneously, the Liberal Party’s leadership contest showcased a scramble for direction as candidates vied for influence.

Here’s a recap of my week of cartoons, which once again reflected the agenda set by the incoming President, Donald Trump. Since starting these weekly summaries in early November, he has been a dominant force in my work, even before his presidency officially begins. So, let’s delve into the final week leading up to Trump’s inauguration, exploring the developments that shape our national narrative and the editorial cartoons that capture the moments of absurdity and urgency.

Tuesday: A Cozy Weekend with Trump  This week kicked off with Danielle Smith making headlines for her weekend visit to Mar-a-Lago, a strategic yet controversial move to align Alberta’s interests with Trump’s administration. As she cozied up to the former president, the urgency to protect Alberta’s oil sector from potential tariffs became apparent. The cartoon depicting a lavish scene of King Trump, supported by a chorus of sycophants, captures the surreal spectacle of political allegiance where Kevin O’Leary’s exaggerated antics and Smith’s bold posturing serve as a commentary on the absurdity of political maneuvering in the face of looming economic threats.

Speaking of Kevin O’Leary, the re-run editorial cartoon I posted on my social media channels was drawn 8 years ago when he threw his hat late into the Conservative leadership race after Stephen Harper resigned. He proved that he was less a baby kisser and everything we knew he was — a mean know it all rich guy better known for berating wannabe entrepreneurs on the Dragon’s Den. Expect to see more of him in coming months of Trump’s so-called Golden Era.

Wednesday: The Political Clean-Up  As the week progressed, the political landscape shifted dramatically. Doug Ford’s cartoon of him wielding an oversized vacuum cleaner humorously symbolizes his attempt to clean up the mess left by Trudeau’s impending departure. His proactive stance highlights the rising tension with Trump and the need for unity amidst chaos. While Ford emerges as a potential national figure, Pierre Poilievre’s muted presence underscores the challenge of being heard in this cacophony. The looming spectre of Trump’s policies adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as Canadians brace for an uncertain future.

Thursday: The Leadership Contest Conundrum  With Trudeau’s exit, the Liberal Party faces a tumultuous leadership contest. The Thursday cartoon encapsulates the playful yet serious nature of this scramble, featuring contenders like Mark Carney, Chrystia Freeland, and Karina Gould.

Mark Carney Cartoon Gallery

Each candidate represents different facets of hope and ambition as they prepare to tackle the challenges posed by external pressures, particularly the potential for U.S. tariffs and the imperative for strong federal leadership. The public’s mixed feelings towards Trudeau’s tenure further complicate the situation, as opinions vary widely on who can best lead Canada through these turbulent times.

Friday: Balancing Provincial Interests  As the week drew to a close, the Premiers’ meeting highlighted the delicate balance between provincial interests and the need for a cohesive national strategy. Ford’s role as the shepherd guiding the provinces reflects the ongoing tension, particularly with Danielle Smith’s Alberta First stance. The cartoon of Ford and the sheep metaphorically illustrates the complexities of provincial versus national priorities, especially as Alberta grapples with its economic significance amidst a push for greener energy solutions. The debate surrounding Smith’s allegiance to Alberta and Ford’s call for unity reveals the intricate dynamics at play in navigating tariff negotiations and economic survival.

Saturday: A Golden Era of Oligarchy  As we wrap up the week, Trump’s upcoming inauguration casts a shadow over Canada. Anticipated policies, such as tax cuts for the wealthy, (‘Oligarchy’ as President Joe Biden referred to in his farewell address this week) and high tariffs on imports, threaten to widen income inequality and strain our economic ties with the U.S.

Trump’s aggressive stance on immigration and foreign policy adds to the unease, potentially destabilizing global peace and affecting undocumented migrants. The convergence of political power and wealth hints at a shift towards an oligarchic society, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic values.

For Canadians, the challenge lies in upholding our values of inclusivity, cooperation, and justice amidst these changes. As the political landscape evolves, the hope for strong governance and collaboration remains crucial to navigating the uncertainties ahead and securing a more equitable future for all.

In looking back on this week’s events, it’s clear that Canada stands at a crossroads. The interplay between provincial leaders, the looming Trump presidency, and the chaotic Liberal leadership contest paints a picture of uncertainty and urgency. As the landscape evolves, the hope for strong governance and collaboration remains paramount, ensuring that Canada can face the challenges ahead while keeping the interests of its provinces and citizens at heart.

As we tip toe to the reality of dread next week, one can only wonder how these narratives will unfold and what further surprises await us in the political arena.