Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday May 16 2025
Ontario’s Budget Crossroads: Investing in Uncertain Times
April 16, 2025
As Ontario gets ready to roll out its provincial budget, it’s clear that we’re dealing with some serious challenges. The Trump tariffs have hit our manufacturing and auto parts sectors hard, creating uncertainty not just here, but worldwide. In these times, it’s crucial to focus on smart investments rather than cutbacks to keep our economy stable and growing.
The tariffs are a major blow to Ontario’s economy, affecting key industries that drive our prosperity. This budget needs to show a commitment to helping these sectors through targeted investments that can make a real difference.
One area that stands out is infrastructure. Investing in things like better transportation, modern public facilities, and clean energy projects can create jobs now and set us up for success down the road. These projects boost productivity and competitiveness, and they can spark broader economic growth.
January 29, 2025
However, we’ve seen mistakes in the past with spending, like the expensive cancellations of renewable energy projects, the dubious Highway 401 tunnel idea, and the controversial decision to open up parts of the Greenbelt for development. These moves have raised concerns about wasteful spending and environmental impacts. Going forward, the government needs to make sure that money is spent wisely, with clear benefits and a focus on transparency.
It’s also essential to protect services like healthcare and education from budget cuts. These are crucial for everyone’s well-being and future potential.
As we look to this new budget, there’s a chance to make choices that support both fiscal responsibility and smart investment. By prioritizing infrastructure and protecting our natural spaces like the Greenbelt, Ontario can tackle the current economic challenges and build a stronger future. This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also aligns with long-term goals, ensuring stability and growth. In these uncertain times, especially with the far-reaching effects of the Trump tariffs, thoughtful investment will be key to overcoming global economic challenges and securing a sustainable path forward for Ontario.
No Substack posting today. It’s Spring and duties to mow the lawn come before substack postings. Instead, enjoying the toiling I did today on the boring subject of provincial budget time. See the static version in tomorrow’s Hamilton Spectator. Don’t forget to like, if you like what you see here, it encourages me to post.
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.
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.
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.
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, Unpublished – Friday April 18, 2025
A Disservice to Canadian Voters
April 19, 2025
In the throes of an election cycle, Canadian voters find themselves navigating a landscape devoid of fully costed party platforms. As advanced polls open, the absence of detailed fiscal plans from major political players like the Liberals and Conservatives is not just a minor oversight; it’s a reckless disregard for the electorate’s right to informed decision-making.
Party platforms serve as a blueprint for governance, offering insight into priorities and fiscal strategies. They are essential for holding future governments accountable. Yet, here we are, mere weeks from casting ballots, and the fiscal blueprints remain elusive. The Conservatives have pledged to collaborate with the Parliamentary Budget Officer, while the Liberals promise a release before the advanced polls close. However, these assurances come too late in the game, leaving voters with little time to digest and debate the implications of proposed policies.
The recklessness of this approach is underscored by the current economic climate. With Canada facing a third major economic shock in less than two decades—following the 2008 financial crisis, the 2020 pandemic, and now the 2025 US trade conflict—the need for transparent and credible fiscal planning is paramount. Proposals to cut taxes or increase spending should be weighed against the backdrop of economic uncertainty and potential deficits. The lack of detailed platforms raises questions about how these promises will be funded and whether they are fiscally responsible.
Despite this, the reality may be that the absence of costed platforms doesn’t significantly sway most voters. In an age where political campaigns often resemble theatrical performances, filled with grand promises and vague assurances, the specifics of fiscal policy may take a backseat to broader ideological alignments and emotional appeals. Many voters prioritize immediate concerns over long-term fiscal sustainability, trusting party rhetoric over detailed economic assessments.
However, this complacency is a gamble. Without clear plans, voters are left to speculate on the sincerity and feasibility of campaign promises. It allows parties to make grandiose claims without accountability for their financial implications, potentially leading to governance that prioritizes short-term gains over sustainable economic health.
While the absence of costed platforms may not deter most voters, it represents a significant dereliction of political responsibility. It denies Canadians the opportunity to engage in meaningful debate about the future direction of the country. As citizens, we must demand more from our political leaders, insisting on transparency and accountability in their fiscal promises. The stakes are too high to accept anything less.
A Leadership Misstep by Mark Carney and the Liberals
January 28, 2025
In the world of politics, perception is often as powerful as reality. The recent controversy surrounding Paul Chiang, the former Liberal candidate for Markham–Unionville, is a testament to this fact. Mark Carney’s decision not to immediately remove Chiang following his inflammatory comments about a Conservative rival reflects a troubling pattern of aloofness and indecision within the Liberal Party when it comes to addressing foreign interference, particularly from China.
Under Justin Trudeau, the Liberal Party has been criticized for taking too long to address concerns about foreign interference. Despite mounting evidence and public concern, the party’s responses have often seemed slow and insufficient. This latest episode with Paul Chiang only reinforces that perception. By initially defending Chiang, Carney missed an opportunity to break from the past and demonstrate decisive leadership in the face of a serious issue.
Mark Carney’s actions, or lack thereof, have highlighted a critical perception problem. His reluctance to act decisively against Chiang after the latter’s comments about turning a political opponent over to Chinese authorities suggests a continuation of past Liberal practices. This perception of aloofness and indecision does little to inspire confidence in a party facing an election where leadership and integrity are paramount.
Interestingly, an Abacus poll taken at the start of the election showed that concern for Chinese election interference ranked low among Canadians, not even making the top 10 list of issues. Instead, concerns about the cost of living, Donald Trump, healthcare, and housing took precedence. However, the Chiang controversy may thrust foreign interference back into the spotlight, challenging the Liberals to address it more robustly.
On the eve of Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day,” the timing of this controversy could not be worse for the Liberals. While the issue may not have long-lasting legs, it represents a self-inflicted wound – a dumb move that could have been easily avoided with more decisive action. Carney’s failure to act swiftly and decisively against Chiang may not only hurt the party’s image but also cast doubt on his ability to lead effectively.
Moving forward, the Liberals, under Mark Carney’s leadership, must demonstrate a more proactive and transparent approach to foreign interference. This is not just about addressing past criticisms but about building a foundation of trust and integrity for the future. In a political landscape where the perception of leadership is critical, Carney and the Liberals must learn from this misstep and show Canadians that they are committed to protecting the nation’s democratic processes.
The fallout from Paul Chiang’s comments serves as a reminder that leadership requires more than rhetoric; it demands decisive action. Mark Carney and the Liberal Party must recognize this and adapt if they are to regain the trust of Canadians and effectively navigate the challenges ahead.
Liberation Day
Today’s message is a bit of a housekeeping note. For months, I’ve been sending out these daily messages along with an animated version of my editorial cartoon, while also keeping up with my regular activities. Honestly, I don’t think many people are seeing them. Figuring out how to use this platform between notes and posts has been a bit frustrating.
Yesterday was a beautiful day, with bright colours and Spring smells returning to nature in my part of the western hemisphere. Instead of following my usual routine, I decided to go outside and enjoy the fresh air. I encourage you all to do the same if you can.
I also made a personal change by deactivating my Facebook accounts yesterday. After 17 years with a personal page and an editorial cartoon page that had 6,000 followers, I felt it was time to step back. Will the tech giants notice I’m gone? No. But it has already given me more time and less distraction. Happy Liberation Day!
Here’s the animated version of my editorial cartoon for today:
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday February 19, 2025
The Training of the Seals
February 14, 2025
In our democracy, debates and open conversations are vital. They help ensure that politicians are accountable and transparent. However, in Ontario, there’s a worrying trend: Progressive Conservative (PC) candidates, including their leader Doug Ford, are avoiding public debates and media interactions. This behaviour raises concerns about the health of our democratic process.
Recently, it’s been noted that PC candidates in areas like London are skipping public forums, choosing instead to campaign door-to-door. This strategy denies voters the chance to hear from those who aim to represent them, effectively stifling the democratic process that thrives on public exchange and scrutiny.
Even Doug Ford himself has been absent from media engagements after debates, despite participating in media sessions during a trip to Washington, D.C. This absence is particularly troubling in an election where crucial issues like healthcare and climate policy are at the forefront.
The party’s decision to limit exposure and tightly control messaging may be an attempt to avoid missteps. However, it also suggests a lack of confidence in their candidates’ ability to speak freely and defend their positions. This control creates the impression that candidates are more like puppets, directed by unseen handlers rather than their own beliefs.
This approach is unfair to voters, who deserve representatives willing to engage openly and honestly. It undermines the core of democracy, which relies on diverse viewpoints and rigorous debate for informed decision-making.
Without open engagement, voters are left with a watered-down version of political discourse, lacking the depth needed to address complex issues. This not only limits voters’ ability to make informed choices but also erodes trust in the political system.
As voters, we need to demand more from those who wish to lead. Politicians who avoid scrutiny and debate should face consequences at the polls. Our democratic process isn’t served by candidates who operate behind the scenes, guided by hidden forces.
It’s time for a change. We must insist on transparency, engagement, and accountability from our political leaders. Only then can democracy thrive, providing the insight and debate we need to tackle today’s challenges. As the election approaches, let’s remember the power of our voices and the importance of demanding a political arena where free thought and genuine engagement are the norm.
Will your vote go to the local candidate who doesn’t show up for anything?
It’s pretty disheartening to see so many local candidates skipping out on the all-candidates debates; it’s a clear indicator that the standards in our democratic process are slipping. What’s even more frustrating is that most of these candidates are from the ruling Progressive Conservative party. Ask yourselves: Do you really want someone who’s just toeing the party line representing your interests? It seems like candidates don’t even get the opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities to the local voters anymore. Add to that the lack of political flyers, no door-knocking from candidates or even volunteers, hidden election signs, and minimal media engagement, and it feels like we’re witnessing one of the most invisible election campaigns in Ontario’s history. Maybe this is part of Premier Doug Ford’s plan for the PCs, but it still doesn’t explain why the other parties are so quiet in the 2025 election. Honestly, from where I’m drawing, I haven’t seen much of anything.
Anyway, enjoy my making-of video for February 19, 2025. The Ontario election is just 9 days away…
