Toronto – mackaycartoons

Friday November 15, 2024

November 15, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday November 15, 2024

Swifties vs. Dread

November 8, 2024

As Canadians sit with a creeping sense of dread over Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the gloom is momentarily interrupted by an unlikely hero — none other than Taylor Swift. For six nights, Toronto is transformed into the epicentre of joy, glitter, and unity, as Swift’s Eras Tour rolls through, captivating fans and bringing a respite from the headlines that otherwise feel impossible to ignore. In this odd contrast — the impending impact of a chaotic presidency versus the exhilarating but fleeting experience of a pop concert — there’s something genuinely Canadian happening, a testament to our knack for finding small joys in dark times.

Andrew Coyne’s recent piece in The Globe and Mail paints a grim picture: a “rogue elephant” is now in charge of our southern neighbour, poised to create seismic shifts in Canada’s economy, defence, and way of life. Coyne warns of Trump’s unpredictability, his plans for mass deportations, tariffs, NATO abandonment, and much more — a storm heading our way for which we are woefully unprepared. Canadians in his readership sound off in agreement, calling for cuts, fiscal restraint, and political urgency — even as many admit that the current government, and perhaps any potential government, might struggle to lead effectively in such turbulent waters.

Opinion: Canada is far from ready for the chaos coming our way

December 8, 2021

Meanwhile, just a few kilometres away from this collective stress session, Toronto is buzzing, not with anxious commentary but with Swifties dressed in rhinestones and friendship bracelets. In a cultural phenomenon that defies political anxieties, Taylor Swift has turned up the volume on joy. Fans from across the country (and beyond) have flocked to Toronto for the spectacle, pumping millions into the local economy, with hotels fully booked, restaurants serving up themed cocktails, and businesses cashing in on Swift’s magnetism. Even the normally cynical among us might smile at the parade of fans who would prefer to scream lyrics at the top of their lungs than scream at the latest news. It’s hard to overstate the intensity of Eras Tour mania; it’s almost as if Canadians are staging a “Keep Calm and Carry On” campaign, Swift-style.

Swift, of course, is no stranger to “the man” trying to tear her down, and her discography is full of anthems about overcoming the forces stacked against you. “You’re on your own, kid,” she sings, in a ballad fit for every Canadian reading Coyne’s grim forecast and realizing that we may, indeed, be on our own. But she doesn’t leave us there: Swift reminds her listeners that, even when faced with adversity, “everything you lose is a step you take.” Even if Canada faces four years of intense disruption, maybe there’s room for a little of Swift’s resilience.

Entertainment: Taylor Swift is shaping our culture. How did that happen?

January 16, 2016

Coyne worries that Canada has grown too cozy with its neighbour, relying too much on the stability of an American democracy now veering into dangerous territory. And indeed, if we’re about to be swept into a maelstrom of tariffs, weakened defence pacts, and economic upheavals, it may be time to double down on Canadian resilience and figure out our own plan. But maybe Swift’s tour also gives us a hint of what it will take to handle whatever may come: communities coming together, supporting local economies, and finding shared moments of levity.

We don’t know what Canada will look like in four years, but we know that for a few nights in November, Canadians found some hope, joy, and solidarity at a Taylor Swift concert. Sure, the tour will roll on to the next city, leaving Toronto to wake up to the world’s troubles once more. But for now, this is a reminder to dance when we can, invest in community, and face the future with some glitter and grit. Taylor’s message, in all its pop brilliance, might just be what we need to hold onto as we brace ourselves for the chaos ahead: “We’re happy, free, confused, and lonely in the best way.” In other words, Canada, shake it off — for now.

Lately, it feels like I’ve caught something chronic: Trump on the brain. Every cartoon, every headline, every conversation seems to circle back to him. Some call it “Trump Derangement Syndrome” (TDS), and while OHIP doesn’t cover it, anyone who keeps up with the news knows the symptoms. The trolls are right. Call me gaslit: I do have TDS. It’s draining.

But not everyone’s on board with the Trump overload. The Hamilton Spectator recently published a letter from Janice Beamer, frustrated with “Trump trashing” and demanding a “pro-Trump voice.” Her question, “Where’s the balance?” highlights a sentiment brewing among Trump supporters: a coalition of disillusioned, frustrated people seeing their cost of living go up, their money go down, and politicians they once trusted losing touch.

In the shadow of Trump’s return, Taylor Swift’s arrival in Toronto for six sold-out shows is an oddly uplifting contrast. The “Taylor effect” isn’t just about music; it’s a massive, joyful cultural force—and it couldn’t come at a better time. With Swiftmania projected to bring nearly $300 million into Toronto, she’s giving fans a reason to cheer, connecting across generations with music and energy that transcends politics.

And while I’m no Swiftie, even I know Shake it Off. Maybe that’s the antidote we all need right now. In a city bogged down by Trump headlines, Swift is a welcome breather. So go ahead, Toronto—embrace the moment, take in the music, and yes, shake off the gloom.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday September 19, 2024

September 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday September 19, 2024

Link to animated version.

Rogers’ Acquisition Will Cement Its Control—But What About the Fans?

Rogers Communications’ push to consolidate its control over Toronto’s sports scene has many fans questioning the implications. If this deal goes through, Rogers will control a significant chunk of the city’s sports and entertainment landscape, with wide-ranging impacts that extend far beyond the stadiums. The move raises concerns about whether the company’s priorities lie with building winning teams or simply maximizing profits.

July 12, 2022

Rogers already owns 37.5% of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), which gives it partial control over the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), and Toronto FC (MLS). However, with this acquisition, Rogers is poised to increase its stake, potentially taking more ownership or influencing decisions over these teams and the venues they play in. MLSE alone is a massive conglomerate, responsible for the Leafs, Raptors, and Toronto FC, as well as the operations of Scotiabank Arena, BMO Field, and the OVO Athletic Centre, to name just a few.

Add to that Rogers’ full ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays and their home, the Rogers Centre, and you have a near-monopoly over the city’s professional sports franchises. Rogers’ influence on both the Blue Jays and MLSE effectively grants them a stranglehold over Toronto’s biggest sports markets. This means control over ticket prices, broadcasting rights, and merchandising—further commercializing what many fans already feel is an overly corporate sports scene.

News: Rogers buys BCE’s stake in MLSE for $4.7-billion

November 27, 2013

If the deal is approved, Rogers will join the ranks of the world’s largest sports and entertainment conglomerates. Globally, it will be positioned alongside other corporate giants like Comcast (which owns NBCUniversal, the Philadelphia Flyers, and part of the Philadelphia 76ers), Liberty Media (owner of Formula 1 and the Atlanta Braves), and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp (owners of the New York Knicks and Rangers). Rogers would become one of the most powerful sports owners on the planet, with reach into all major North American sports leagues except the NFL.

May 2, 2023

But what does this mean for fans? Many already feel that ticket prices, parking fees, and concessions are becoming prohibitive. Reader comments from a Toronto Star piece on the city’s sports scene highlight the frustration: “Paid $140 for a mediocre seat at a Jay’s game… with parking and minimal food and drink purchases, we still managed to spend close to a hundred bucks.” With Rogers now poised to gain even more control, fans fear that prices will continue to rise while the on-field product stagnates.

Toronto fans, already paying top dollar to watch teams that rarely deliver championships, worry that Rogers’ acquisition will push sports further into elitist territory. As one commenter put it, “The franchises become ever more elitist cashboxes.” It’s hard to shake the feeling that Rogers sees these teams as vehicles for profit rather than sources of pride for a city that craves a championship legacy.

Analysis: Playoff failures, rising ticket prices, frustrated fans. How did we get here? An inside look at Toronto’s miserable sports scene

March 19, 2021

Rogers’ track record with the Blue Jays is far from reassuring. As one Star reader pointed out, the Blue Jays are seen as a “marketing circus” rather than a serious baseball contender. Despite having one of the top payrolls in Major League Baseball, the Jays remain a middling team, unable to capitalize on their resources and fan support. Similar concerns loom over the Raptors and Leafs, who, despite their market size and wealth, have consistently fallen short of their potential.

This acquisition cements Rogers as one of the most powerful forces in sports. The question now is whether this dominance will be used to deliver championships or simply to maximize profits. Toronto fans, who have been let down time and time again, have every reason to be cynical. Until the focus shifts from corporate gain to winning on the field, the city’s sports scene will remain a frustrating landscape of high costs and low returns. For a city that deserves better, this acquisition feels like more of the same. (AI)

Wednesday June 26, 2024

June 26, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday June 26, 2024

* Find an animated version of this cartoon through this link!

A Night of Dramatic Change: Political Shifts and Hockey Heartbreak

June 22, 2024

The convergence of two significant events on a single night—an unexpected Conservative victory in the Toronto-St. Paul’s byelection and the Edmonton Oilers’ dramatic loss in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final—marks a profound moment of change and reflection in Canada. These occurrences not only highlight the unpredictability of both politics and sports but also signal a potential shift in the federal political landscape that could shape the future of the nation.

For many, the Conservative win in the Toronto-St. Paul’s byelection is a harbinger of shifting political winds. Traditionally a Liberal stronghold, this riding’s unexpected swing to the Conservative candidate, Don Stewart, suggests a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership. Despite a robust campaign effort by the Liberals, including personal endorsements and support from Trudeau and several high-profile cabinet ministers, the loss has prompted serious introspection within the party.

News: Conservatives score upset win in Toronto—St. Paul’s by-election

April 26, 2024

This upset challenges the conventional wisdom that byelections are poor indicators of broader electoral trends. Instead, it reflects real and immediate concerns among voters—economic anxiety, rising living costs, and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of national and international issues. The result has invigorated the Conservative Party, providing them with a significant psychological boost and a tangible sign that they can make substantial gains in the next general election.

Simultaneously, the Edmonton Oilers’ defeat in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final was a blow to many Canadian hockey fans. After staging a remarkable comeback from a 3-0 deficit in the series, the Oilers’ ultimate loss to the Florida Panthers ended their championship hopes and left fans in Edmonton and across the country in a state of disappointment.

News: Edmonton Oilers run at Stanley Cup history dies with Game 7 defeat

June 4, 2024

For some, this sports outcome might seem trivial compared to the political shift, but in Canada, hockey is more than just a game. It’s a source of national pride and community spirit. The Oilers’ loss, especially following their impressive fightback, added a layer of collective melancholy to an already dramatic night.

These dual events have sparked a wave of speculation about the future of Justin Trudeau’s leadership. As political observers draw parallels to his father Pierre Trudeau’s famous “walk in the snow,” many are questioning whether Justin Trudeau might also contemplate stepping down. Pierre Trudeau’s walk in the snow was a moment of personal reflection that led to his decision to retire from politics. Similarly, the current Prime Minister faces a critical juncture.

Trudeau’s leadership has been marked by significant achievements and controversies alike. His handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental policies, and social justice initiatives have been praised by supporters but have also faced criticism and scrutiny. The loss in Toronto-St. Paul’s, compounded by ethical scandals and economic challenges, could prompt Trudeau to consider whether he remains the best person to lead the Liberal Party and the country.

Opinion: Regardless of leader, the Liberals are at risk of a worse fate after Toronto-St. Paul’s by-election

April 13, 2024

As Canada moves forward, the implications of this night of change are profound. The political landscape appears more fluid than ever, with the potential for significant shifts in voter allegiance and party strategies. The Conservatives are buoyed by their recent success and are likely to intensify their efforts to capitalize on Liberal vulnerabilities.

For the Liberals, the challenge is clear: they must reconnect with disillusioned voters and address the pressing issues that led to the byelection loss. This could involve a reassessment of policies, a reinvigoration of their platform, or even a change in leadership.

The coming months will be crucial as both parties prepare for the next general election. The Conservatives will seek to build on their momentum, while the Liberals must navigate this period of introspection and potential transformation. Justin Trudeau’s next steps will be closely watched, as they will significantly influence the political direction of the country.

The dramatic events of that night—both in the political arena and on the hockey rink—underscore a moment of transition and uncertainty. As Canada faces these changing times, the decisions made by its leaders will shape the nation’s future, reflecting the evolving desires and concerns of its people. (AI)

Saturday May 24, 2024

May 25, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday May 24, 2024

Ford’s War on Drugs: Personal Past vs. Political Present

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Six years after Doug Ford first pledged to help those struggling with addictions, his opposition to drug decriminalization remains steadfast, echoing a rhetoric of law and order. Yet, as the Premier of Ontario, his stance on drug policy is riddled with irony and contradiction. The recent rejection of Toronto’s bid to decriminalize drugs by the federal government, coupled with Ford’s history of involvement in illicit activities and his brother Rob’s well-documented struggles with substance abuse, raises questions about the authenticity of his opposition and the underlying motivations behind it.

In the eyes of many, Ford’s vocal opposition to drug decriminalization stands in stark contrast to his own experiences and those of his family. The Toronto Star’s editorial rightly points out the irony of Ford’s stance, highlighting his brother Rob’s public battles with addiction, including his infamous admission of using crack cocaine while serving as Toronto’s mayor. It begs the question: how can Ford, with a personal history intertwined with drugs, justify his opposition to policies aimed at mitigating the harms of addiction?

Editorial: We’ll all lose if Doug Ford wages a war on drugs

February 18, 2021

Ford’s opposition to drug decriminalization can be seen as a calculated move to appeal to his conservative base. As the editorial notes, his bellicose rhetoric against decriminalization resonates with constituents who prioritize public safety and order. By positioning himself as tough on crime, Ford solidifies his support among conservatives, even if it means perpetuating policies that contradict his own experiences and the evidence supporting harm reduction strategies.

Despite his vocal opposition to decriminalization, Ford has expressed support for addiction treatment and selective harm reduction measures, such as supervised consumption sites. This selective endorsement, as highlighted by the Toronto Star, indicates a nuanced understanding of the issue. However, it also raises questions about the sincerity of Ford’s opposition to broader decriminalization efforts and whether his support for certain harm reduction measures is merely lip service to appease critics.

January 23, 2014

In light of Ford’s history and his family’s struggles with addiction, there is a pressing need for accountability. As the Toronto Star editorial rightly argues, politicians like Ford, who espouse tough drug policies while having personal connections to drug-related activities, must be held accountable for their actions and beliefs. Transparency and consistency in political leadership are essential, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like drug policy that directly impact public health and safety.

March 14, 2024

In the complex landscape of drug policy, Doug Ford’s stance on decriminalization raises significant questions about authenticity, consistency, and accountability. His opposition, while playing to his conservative base, stands in stark contrast to his personal history and the evidence supporting harm reduction strategies. As Ontario’s Premier, Ford must reconcile his political posturing with the realities of addiction and the need for compassionate, evidence-based solutions. Failure to do so undermines not only his credibility but also the well-being of those struggling with addiction across the province. (AI)

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

Saturday February 24, 2024

February 24, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday February 24, 2024

Doug Ford’s “Get It Done” Act: A Gimmick in Environmental Clothing

Series: Young Doug Ford

Premier Doug Ford’s introduction of the Get It Done Act has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism from various quarters, and for good reason. While the government’s intent to expedite infrastructure projects is commendable, the bill appears to be more of a political gimmick than a comprehensive solution. The legislation, echoing the campaign slogan of “Get It Done,” seeks to streamline environmental assessments for highways and hasten expropriation processes, but its broader implications are cause for concern.

The bill’s primary focus on fast-tracking major infrastructure projects, especially highways, raises questions about its alignment with Ontario’s environmental priorities. The decision to categorize highways as “low risk” for rapid environmental approvals seems shortsighted, potentially sacrificing thorough assessments for expediency. Critics argue that the emphasis on projects like Highway 413 distracts from pressing issues such as healthcare, affordable housing, and education.

News: Ontario omnibus bill ‘Get It Done Act’ to contain urban boundary changes

February 22, 2024

Environmentalists and opposition leaders, including Green Party leader Mike Schreiner and NDP leader Marit Stiles, have voiced reservations about the bill. Schreiner labels it the “Get It Done Wrong Act,” emphasizing the government’s misplaced priorities. Stiles expresses concerns about the government “tinkering around” with vital processes and questions its ability to listen to the needs of the people.

The claim that the bill aims to make life more affordable for families and businesses by streamlining processes seems disconnected from its actual provisions. Freezing the fee for renewing a driving license, a seemingly unrelated measure, is thrown into the mix, further diluting the bill’s focus and raising questions about its coherence.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge instances where Premier Ford has demonstrated collaboration and effectiveness in governance. Recently, the City of Toronto received over $100 million from the Ford government as a reward for surpassing housing targets. Premier Ford and Mayor Olivia Chow jointly announced the funding, highlighting Toronto’s accomplishment in breaking ground on 50% more houses than required.

News: Ontario gives Toronto $114M for exceeding its 2023 housing targets

June 28, 2023

This collaborative approach in addressing housing challenges is commendable, showcasing a positive aspect of Premier Ford’s administration. Encouraging other municipalities to emulate Toronto’s success in meeting housing targets is a step in the right direction, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among local leaders.

While Premier Doug Ford’s “Get It Done” Act may be seen as a politically charged move to fulfill campaign promises, its focus on expediting environmental assessments for highways raises concerns about environmental stewardship. On the flip side, the collaborative efforts with Mayor Olivia Chow on housing initiatives demonstrate the potential for constructive governance. Striking a balance between expediency and environmental responsibility is crucial for Ontario’s future, and the government must carefully consider the long-term implications of its legislative actions. (AI)