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Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday July 28, 2023

The Absurd Shadow Cabinet of Pierre Poilievre: A Comedy of Errors

In a stunning display of political theatrics, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre unveils his aptly named “Shadow Cabinet” – a motley crew of characters that seems to have jumped straight out of a science fiction sitcom. With the country hurtling towards an inevitable federal election, Poilievre’s desperate attempt at a “great reset” aims to revitalize his party’s chances against the neck-and-neck Liberals. But as the curtains rise on this farce, it becomes apparent that Poilievre’s antics are more likely to raise eyebrows than to win hearts.

Let’s start with the “Shadow Minister of Defunding the CBC.” Poilievre’s pledge to strip the CBC of its funding has earned him cheers from his conservative base. However, the catch is that he still supports Radio-Canada’s French services. It’s like trying to take away the main course while leaving the side dishes intact – a recipe for absurdity.

Next up, we have the “Shadow Minister without Portfolio: Barbaric Cultural Practices Crisis.” Yes, you read that right! Poilievre seems to be stuck in a time warp, defending controversial policies from past campaigns that have alienated immigrant communities. Perhaps he believes it’s an effective strategy to fight for the rights of barbaric cultural practices tip lines while ignoring the reality that times have changed.

Let’s not forget the “Shadow Minister of Proud Boys and Traditional Gender Roles.” Poilievre must be hoping to attract voters from the 1950s with this one. Embracing outdated ideas of gender roles and cozying up to extremist groups like the Proud Boys is sure to win the hearts of, well, no one.

And who could overlook the “Shadow Crypto Board President”? With cryptocurrencies facing scandals and plummeting prices, Poilievre’s support for Bitcoin sounds like a punchline. Promoting a “Ponzi scheme” that lost money for investors is hardly a winning policy.

Oh, and let’s not miss the “Shadow Minister of All Lives Matter.” In a country that values diversity and inclusivity, this choice can only be described as tone-deaf and insensitive. Poilievre might as well appoint a “Shadow Minister of Ignorance and Division.”

Moving on, we encounter the “Shadow Trumpism Minister.” Because nothing says “leadership material” like emulating a divisive former U.S. president who is far from popular with a significant portion of the Canadian population.

And who could forget the “Shadow Minister of Conspiracies and Pseudo-Science”? Poilievre’s enthusiasm for anti-vaccine sentiments and promoting unfounded conspiracy theories only proves that he has a flair for the absurd.

Lastly, we have the “Shadow Apologies for Past Apologies Minister.” This is the perfect role for someone who seems to be stuck in a never-ending cycle of defending past mistakes and refusing to learn from them.

As the spotlight shines on this ridiculous cast of characters, one has to wonder if Poilievre is serious about winning the hearts of Canadians or if he’s auditioning for a role in a political comedy. It’s clear that his desperate bid for support from fringe elements and conspiracy theorists is leading him down a path of absurdity.

If Poilievre wants to be taken seriously as a leader, he needs to step out of the shadows of extremism and embrace a vision that truly represents the diverse and inclusive Canada we know and love. Until then, the show must go on – a comedy of errors that leaves Canadians shaking their heads and wondering what happened to the once-respectable Conservative Party. (AI)