mackaycartoons

Graeme MacKay's Editorial Cartoon Archive

  • Archives
  • DOWNLOADS
  • Kings & Queens
  • MacKaycartoons Inc.
  • Prime Ministers
  • Special Features
  • The Boutique
  • Who?
  • Young Doug Ford
  • Presidents

YDF

Wednesday March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

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.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 26, 2025

Ford and Carney: A Pragmatic Duo Navigates Canada’s Challenges

Series: Young Doug Ford

The evolving relationship between Doug Ford and Mark Carney, juxtaposed with the distant rapport Ford shares with Pierre Poilievre, offers a compelling narrative about leadership, pragmatism, and the future of Canadian politics.

Doug Ford, despite his past controversies, has shown a remarkable ability to adapt and work across party lines. His recent collaboration with Mark Carney is a testament to his pragmatic approach. Carney, with his extensive background in economics and leadership, brings a wealth of expertise that complements Ford’s political acumen. Together, they provide a balanced and strategic front against external challenges, particularly in light of Trump’s tariff wars.

News: Insiders say Pierre Poilievre called Doug Ford for ‘advice’ — but the premier said he’ll be ‘staying out’ of the election

Doug Ford's evolution from a controversial provincial leader to a national unifier fills a leadership void left not just by Justin Trudeau, but also Pierre Poilievre, as Canada faces economic challenges similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, while dealing with his lingering past controversies.

January 15, 2025

Their partnership is not just about political convenience; it’s about safeguarding Canadian interests. Ford’s decision to meet with Carney at Wally’s Grill symbolizes a willingness to engage with leaders who share a vision for
In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s relationship with Ford appears strained and distant. Despite reaching out for advice, Poilievre’s late congratulatory call to Ford and the lack of personal rapport highlight a disconnect. Ford’s focus on governing Ontario and his refusal to engage in federal campaigning further underscores his commitment to provincial priorities.

Poilievre’s rigid stance and divisive rhetoric, reminiscent of American-style politics, seem out of sync with Ford’s centrist approach. This contrast is not lost on voters, many of whom express concerns about Poilievre’s ability to unite and lead effectively.

Opinion: For Doug Ford, Mark Carney will always be a better partner than Pierre Poilievre

April 28, 2023

Reader comments reflect a broader sentiment: Ford, despite his flaws, is viewed as a leader willing to listen and adapt, while Poilievre is seen as rigid and confrontational. Ford’s willingness to collaborate with leaders like Carney, regardless of political affiliation, resonates with Canadians who value cooperation and stability.

In a time of economic uncertainty and external threats, the Ford-Carney alliance offers a reassuring path forward. Their combined leadership exemplifies the power of collaboration and pragmatic governance, positioning Canada to navigate challenges with resilience and foresight.

As Canadians consider their political landscape, the contrast between Ford’s adaptable leadership and Poilievre’s divisive approach becomes increasingly evident. The Ford-Carney partnership stands as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that effective leadership transcends party lines and prioritizes the nation’s well-being.


Picking a Topic

Drawing an editorial cartoon is like putting together a puzzle with a thousand tiny pieces. The hardest part is picking the right topic, especially since my audience is spread across Ontario from Kitchener to Niagara Falls. Today, there were lots of news bites to chew on. The Trump officials’ chat was juicy but already covered by U.S. folks. The TVA debate fee and the India interference story seemed either too niche or not cooked enough yet.

What really caught my eye was the budding bromance between Mark Carney and Doug Ford. Their recent get-togethers offered a perfect chance for some light-hearted fun, especially with a classic CNE setting. I decided to use the “Polar Express” ride to play on Carney’s name and toss in a bit of nostalgia with a young Doug Ford and friends having a blast.

In the cartoon, young Pierre Poilievre looks puzzled in his nerdy “Spirit of 76” shirt, while Carney, as the ride operator, has him talking to the hand. Ford’s on the ride, waving and cheering, while Pierre wonders why he’s left out. The Bulova Tower sneaks into the background, adding that authentic CNE vibe.

This piece is all about mixing humour with a bit of satire, poking fun at political dynamics in a playful way. It feels good to see the idea come to life and hopefully give readers across Ontario a chuckle. Here’s the animated version – Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada, Ontario Tagged: 2025-06, Canada, challenges, CNE, collaboration, Doug Ford, Economy, governance, leadership, Mark Carney, Ontario, Pierre Poilievre, Polar Express, politics, pragmatism, Substack, Trade, YDF, Young Doug Ford

Friday January 24, 2025

January 24, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Doug Ford's call for a mandate to address potential U.S. tariffs distracts from his government's pressing domestic issues and highlights the necessity for Canada to diversify trade relations and reduce interprovincial barriers.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday January 24, 2025, and The Toronto Star

Doug Ford’s Call for a Mandate is a Diversion, Not a Solution

Young Doug Ford: The Series

In the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s provocative rhetoric about using “economic force” against Canada, Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s call for a new mandate to tackle potential U.S. tariffs seems less about addressing genuine economic challenges and more about diverting attention from his government’s shortcomings.

Opinion: Doug Ford is trying to protect himself, not Ontario, with an early election call

His concept of “Fortress Am-Can” emerges as a notable, albeit gimmicky, initiative by Ontario Premier Doug Ford. This catchy moniker is intended to symbolize a robust economic alliance with the United States, aiming to fortify trade relations while addressing potential external threats. While the name conjures images of impenetrable economic strength, critics might argue that it serves more as a rhetorical flourish than a concrete policy framework, highlighting the complexities and challenges inherent in truly integrating cross-border economic strategies with domestic priorities. It’s has yet to be seen if the moniker goes anywhere.

Alberta must balance its oil interests with national unity, aligning with other provinces to strengthen Canada's position against potential U.S. tariffs.

January 17, 2025

The proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods by Trump present a significant economic threat, but framing an election as the solution is misleading. At a time when the Canadian economy needs strategic, collaborative responses, Ford’s focus on securing political capital is a distraction from more pressing and actionable solutions.

For one, Canada must urgently diversify its trading relationships. Reliance on the U.S. leaves Canada vulnerable to the whims of American policy shifts. By expanding trade ties with Europe, Asia, and other global markets, Canada can bolster its economic resilience and reduce dependency on a single partner.

Moreover, the real opportunity for economic strengthening lies within our borders. Interprovincial trade barriers in Canada are a self-imposed obstacle that stifles economic potential. These barriers, in the form of differing regulations and standards, create inefficiencies and restrict the free flow of goods, services, and labor. Addressing these would not only enhance domestic productivity but also prepare Canada to better withstand external economic pressures.

News: Split on U.S. tariffs, premiers agree to focus on dismantling interprovincial trade barriers

Donald Trump’s obsession with tariffs, if implemented in a second term, would severely damage the Canadian economy, risking job losses, trade uncertainty, and further straining relations with Canada’s largest trading partner.

October 17, 2024

Meanwhile, Ford’s government faces significant domestic challenges, particularly in healthcare and housing. Ontario’s healthcare system is under strain, with long wait times and resource shortages affecting patient care. The housing crisis continues to escalate, with affordability and availability issues persisting across the province. These are critical areas that demand focused attention and effective policy solutions, yet they seem overshadowed by the political theater of an unnecessary electoral mandate.

In essence, Ford’s election call seems more a maneuver to consolidate power rather than a genuine effort to address the economic challenges posed by U.S. tariffs. What Canada truly needs is strategic leadership that prioritizes internal economic reforms and external diversification. By focusing on these substantive issues, Canadian leaders can enhance national resilience and secure a more stable economic future.

The path forward requires vision and collaboration, not electoral distractions. It’s time to move beyond political posturing and focus on the real work needed to strengthen Canada’s economy from within.


Interprovincial trade barriers might not be the most sexy topic, but they could be the secret weapon Canada needs to counteract the financial strain from U.S. tariffs. These barriers have been a thorn in Canada’s side since Confederation, and while they don’t grab headlines, tackling them could make a real difference.

When a tariff crisis hits, it’s tempting for politicians to make a big show of calling elections and casting tariffs as the villain. Yet the real challenge—and opportunity—lies in bringing provinces together to break down these old trade walls.

“Economic force”, as Donald Trump has called it, in the form of tariffs, would mean trouble for consumers on both sides of the border, leading to job losses and economic pain. Canada, being the smaller player, will ultimately suffer more in this exchange.

To strengthen its position, Canada should look beyond North America and build trade relationships with friendlier markets. At the same time, cutting through the red tape of interprovincial trade is a crucial, though often overlooked, move that could boost the economy.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s call for an election in response to tariffs seems more like political theatre than a real solution. He’s learned from the great Guru of distraction who’s the new leader down south. An election diverts attention from RCMP investigations and urgent issues like healthcare and housing that need urgent fixing. Instead of playing games, Canada needs to focus on real change: diversifying trade and tearing down those internal trade barriers. By doing so, Canada can stand stronger and more independently, ready to face whatever comes its way.

But no, Dougie Ford has to revert to his teen brain and thrust us into a provincial election.

Please enjoy the January 23, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below.  Posts come out every Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons. If you like my editorial cartoons and animations, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. A lot of work goes into these cartoons and commentary — Best of all, it’s free!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2025-02, Captain Canada, commerce, fashion, fortress Am-Can, inter-provincial trade, Ontario, OntElection2025, populism, Substack, superman, tariffs, Trade, YDF, Young Doug Ford

Saturday December 14, 2024

December 13, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Young Doug Ford’s schoolyard standoff with a yoyo-wielding Donald Trump humorously mirrors Ford’s bold, risky tactics in modern politics.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday December 14, 2024

Good Cop, Bad Cop: Ford’s Bluff Is a Risky, Yet Savvy Strategy Against Trump

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Doug Ford’s suggestion to halt Canadian energy exports to the U.S. may sound extreme, but it’s a calculated gambit in the face of Donald Trump’s looming threat of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods. While Ford’s rhetoric is risky, it mirrors Trump’s own blustery style and could serve as a critical counterweight to the often-dismissed diplomacy of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Trump, no stranger to hardline populism, has consistently shown disdain for Trudeau and his liberal-leaning strategies. Whether dismissing Canada’s contributions or falsely claiming the U.S. “subsidizes” its northern neighbor to the tune of $100 billion annually, Trump’s language reflects a deeply transactional worldview. He values strength and posturing, traits Ford channels in his bold threat to cut off power exports.

News: Ontario prepared to stop exporting electricity to U.S. if Trump follows through on tariffs, Ford says

May 31, 2023

May 31, 2023

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Quebec’s François Legault, and Newfoundland and Labrador’s Andrew Furey all dismissed Ford’s proposal. They argued for diplomacy, emphasizing Canada’s energy partnerships and economic interdependence with the U.S. Their reasoning is sound; energy retaliation could harm Canadian jobs and escalate a trade war. Yet, Trump’s track record suggests that polite diplomacy alone may not deter him. This is where Ford’s brinkmanship could have value.

By threatening to cut energy exports—an essential lifeline for U.S. states like Michigan and New York—Ford adopts Trump’s own playbook. This isn’t just about retaliating; it’s about speaking a language Trump understands. As a right-leaning populist, Ford’s rhetoric may resonate with Trump, forcing him to consider the domestic backlash of losing Canadian electricity and oil. Such a tactic, even as a bluff, plays into Trump’s fixation on strength and his aversion to being publicly outmaneuvered.

News: Trump says it’s ‘fine’ after Ford threat to cut energy to border states

Donald Trump’s obsession with tariffs, if implemented in a second term, would severely damage the Canadian economy, risking job losses, trade uncertainty, and further straining relations with Canada’s largest trading partner.

October 17, 2024

Critics argue Ford’s approach is reckless. Indeed, cutting off energy exports would hurt both nations, deepening economic strain on families and businesses. However, Ford has explicitly framed this as a “last resort,” ensuring it remains a theoretical deterrent rather than an immediate policy. It also positions him as a stronger voice than Trudeau in the face of Trump’s economic warfare.

As one reader in The Toronto Star commented, “You never appease a bully—not ever.” This encapsulates why Ford’s stance, despite its risks, might be the right counterweight to Trump’s aggression. Appeasement risks emboldening Trump, who thrives on dominating perceived weaker opponents. A hardline response, particularly from someone who shares Trump’s populist bent, might force the U.S. president to reconsider his tactics.

News: Key premiers dismiss Doug Ford’s threat to stop Donald Trump’s tariffs by cutting off energy to Americans

June 15, 2018

Ford’s strategy is not without precedent. Historically, trade disputes have often involved brinkmanship, with both sides staking out extreme positions before arriving at a negotiated compromise. Ford’s rhetoric, as dramatic as it may be, serves as a necessary counterbalance to Trump’s. While premiers like Smith and Legault are right to emphasize stability and diplomacy, Ford’s hardline approach ensures Canada has a strong bargaining chip in negotiations.

In the end, a unified strategy blending Ford’s toughness with Trudeau’s diplomacy could prove most effective. The “good cop, bad cop” approach—combining Ford’s threat of energy export cuts with a more measured federal response—might give Trump pause without pushing relations to the breaking point.

For now, Ford’s bluff mirrors Trump’s style and sends a clear message: Canada won’t be a passive player in this economic showdown. Whether Trump respects Canada’s energy leverage or escalates the conflict remains to be seen, but Ford’s strategy ensures Canada’s voice isn’t lost in the din of U.S. domestic politics.


If you’ve been following Young Doug Ford, you’ll know it’s a mix of satire, nostalgia, and current events seen through the lens of 1970s southern Ontario. The series is rooted in hazy childhood memories, like yo-yo salesmen dazzling kids on the playground—a phenomenon that feels more surreal the longer I think about it. As I drew this edition, I put out a call on Facebook to confirm I wasn’t imagining these yo-yo hustlers, and I was relived to find confirmation in the responses.

Some shared vivid memories of nuns or principals storming out to shoo away the intruders. Others recounted yo-yo demonstrations in school auditoriums or parks, where tricks like Walking the Dog or Rocking the Baby sparked brief playground crazes. One person even remembered a motivational speaker in the 21st century bringing yo-yos back for a fleeting moment of glory. And then there was the inevitable Simpsons comparison—a testament to how these episodes straddle nostalgia and absurdity.

This edition of Young Doug Ford draws directly from these memories, blending them with Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s threat to cut electricity exports if Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian goods go through. It’s a wild strategy—half bluff, half bold move—that echoes Trump’s own blustering style. The strip imagines Young Doug confronting a yo-yo-slinging Trump in a schoolyard showdown, warning him to pack up and leave or risk losing his power (quite literally).

It’s a playful take, but it speaks to how these childhood scenes of power and defiance echo in the adult world. Were you a yo-yo kid? Do you think Ford’s energy threat is clever brinkmanship or a risky gamble? And seriously, do you remember yo-yo salesmen invading your schoolyard? Drop me a line—I’d love to know how far this shared memory goes.

Please subscribe to my SubStack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday, (or Saturday depending on my time) as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily  editorial cartoons. Subscriptions will always be free – as long as my position remains as a staff editorial cartoonist. Thanks. Please Enjoy this making-of clip of the December 14, 2024 Editorial Cartoon. Sound up, please!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2024-22, bully, diplomacy, Donald Trump, Doug Ford, Ontario, schoolyard, Substack, tariffs, YDF, Young Doug Ford, yoyo

Saturday September 21, 2024

September 21, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Despite Doug Ford's boasts of prudent fiscal management, critics warn that rising debt, hidden subsidies, and inflated job creation claims undermine the Ontario premier's economic narrative.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 21, 2024 – (Published later in The Toronto Star)

Link to the animated version.

Ford’s Fiscal Claims Face Scrutiny Amid Rising Debt and Misleading Job Numbers

Concerns over Doug Ford's alcohol market liberalization focus on fears of reduced public revenue, private gains, and disadvantages for taxpayers and consumers amid LCBO strikes.

July 19, 2024

Despite Doug Ford’s Ontario government basking in its own glowing self-assessment, a growing consensus among critics is that the province’s fiscal strategy is far less successful than the premier claims. The government’s financial reports may look impressive at first glance, with near-balanced budgets, no tax hikes, and spending increases in key areas, but a deeper look reveals that many of the promises and claims are inflated, misleading, or based on a selective reading of the numbers. From job creation to debt management, Ford’s fiscal reputation, while politically advantageous, should be taken with a grain of salt.

News: Ontario ends 2023-24 with nearly balanced budget

In the face of Ontario Premier Doug Ford's optimistic portrayal of the province's economy, a reality check reveals underlying weaknesses including sluggish growth, rising business bankruptcies, and challenges stemming from rapid population growth and macroeconomic headwinds.

March 27, 2024

In the Toronto Star, Martin Regg Cohn highlights one of the more glaring examples of Ford’s economic exaggeration: job creation. Ford frequently touts his government’s success in creating jobs, especially in construction, claiming numbers that don’t match the official statistics. The premier’s boast of “100,000 estimated jobs in construction” falls flat when compared to Statistics Canada’s more modest figure of 26,500 new jobs in the sector since Ford took office. More troubling is the unemployment rate under Ford, which now stands at 7.1%, higher than when Kathleen Wynne left office in 2018 with a rate of 5.6%. This trend is exacerbated in major cities like Toronto and Windsor, where joblessness is even worse.

Opinion: Believe the numbers, not the premier: Doug Ford’s unemployment numbers are worse than when he took over from Kathleen Wynne

The narrative Ford tries to sell—that Ontario is thriving under his leadership—collapses under scrutiny. While it’s true that Ford has inherited some challenges and can’t control all economic factors, such as global recessions or federal interest rate policies, his tendency to take credit in good times and shift blame in bad times rings hollow. Ford’s economic stewardship, as Cohn argues, relies heavily on overstatements, selective data, and a consistent deflection of responsibility.

The Fraser Institute takes a similarly critical stance on Ford’s fiscal management, but through a conservative lens. It highlights that despite modest deficits, the province’s net debt continues to rise, reaching $408 billion in 2023-24—an increase of $8.2 billion in just one year. This accumulation of debt, combined with delayed budget balancing, suggests that Ford’s claim to fiscal prudence is unfounded.

The Fraser Institute: Ford government continues irresponsible fiscal management in Ontario

November 22, 2019

Even more alarming is Ford’s reliance on hydro subsidies, a hidden cost to the province that has now ballooned to $7.3 billion annually. As Regg Cohn points out, this subsidy is not only unsustainable but also counterproductive, distorting the true cost of electricity and placing an enormous burden on future budgets. Instead of addressing this issue, Ford has chosen to disguise the real cost of electricity from voters and investors, further undermining his claim of responsible fiscal management.

The Toronto Sun’s Brian Lilley, though defending Ford’s spending increases as proof that he’s not cutting services, also acknowledges that Ontario’s spending has risen by 34% since Ford took office, outpacing inflation. While this might be seen as a positive—investment in health care and education has surged—it raises questions about efficiency and missed opportunities. The Fraser Institute criticizes Ford for failing to balance the budget when he could have, especially as higher-than-expected revenues and lower debt interest costs provided room to do so. Instead, Ford increased program spending by $4.6 billion beyond what was planned, losing the chance to either run a surplus or reduce the growing debt burden.

Premier Doug Ford's exclusive deal with American giant Staples for Service Ontario accommodations, devoid of competitive bidding and sprinkled with linguistic quirks, unfolds as a quirky comedy, leaving Ontarians questioning the spelling choices and transparency of their government. *Misspellings intended.

February 2, 2023

Ford’s fiscal approach increasingly looks like a populist smokescreen, more concerned with short-term political gain than long-term fiscal health. Reader comments on the Toronto Star article amplify this skepticism, pointing out wasteful spending on projects like highway expansions, unnecessary construction, and the cancellation of license plate fees—moves that sound good on paper but come at a steep cost. One commenter laments the lost revenue from the elimination of license plate fees, amounting to $1.1 billion annually, while another highlights Ford’s fixation on populist policies like the expansion of alcohol sales in convenience stores—costing the province up to $1 billion—instead of addressing critical issues like long wait times for cancer treatment.

Ford’s reliance on PR-driven policies, rather than substantive fiscal reform, reflects a broader trend in his government. From the high-profile legal battles over nurse pay raises to the cancellation of renewable energy projects, Ford’s record is riddled with choices that seem more about scoring political points than making sound financial decisions. Critics argue that these decisions are not just costly but counterproductive, diverting funds from more pressing needs like housing and education.

While Doug Ford enjoys high popularity, likely buoyed by his ability to avoid tax hikes and portray himself as a champion of the people, his record on fiscal responsibility is increasingly coming under fire. Ford may be close to balancing the budget, but critics warn that his methods—ballooning debt, hidden subsidies, populist giveaways, and job creation claims that don’t hold up—paint a much less rosy picture of Ontario’s fiscal health.

Series: Young Doug Ford

The consensus among economists, fiscal watchdogs, and even some conservative commentators is clear: take Ford’s fiscal claims with a grain of salt. Ford’s penchant for over-promising and under-delivering when it comes to job creation, debt reduction, and balanced budgets should raise concerns for anyone paying close attention. Ontario’s economy may not be in immediate crisis, but the long-term risks of Ford’s populist approach—ballooning debt, unsustainable subsidies, and mismanagement—could leave the province in a precarious position.

In the end, whether you’re a fiscal conservative, a liberal critic, or a neutral observer, the message is the same: believe the numbers, not the premier’s spin. (AI)

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2024-17, animated, debt, Doug Ford, Fiscal report, jobs, Ontario, report card, sleeping, spending, YDF, Young Doug Ford

Thursday March 14, 2024

March 14, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

The controversy surrounding Premier Doug Ford's preference for appointing "like-minded" judges, coupled with a significant majority of judicial appointments going to former prosecutors, continues to persist, prompting a call for dialogue from lawyers' associations concerned about the potential impact on judicial independence in Ontario.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday March 14, 2024

From Teenage Antics to Judicial Appointments: Doug Ford’s Peculiar Journey

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Premier Doug Ford’s recent admission of his intent to appoint “like-minded” judges has ignited concerns about the independence and impartiality of Ontario’s judiciary. This revelation, coupled with a satirical look back at Young Doug Ford’s teenage years, paints a surreal picture of the premier’s approach to judicial appointments.

Young Doug Ford and his buddies, Duart and Kyle, are assessing the quality of weed they sell to other youths. Surprisingly, Ford rejects the substance and defers judgment to his two friends, declaring, “You be the judge.” Fast forward several decades, and there before our eyes his penchant for cronyism, Ford has appointed Duart and Kyle to positions as judges.

This journey shines a light on the absurdity of Ford’s recent decisions to appoint individuals with close political ties to key positions within the judicial system. The Globe and Mail’s analysis revealing that over two-thirds of judges appointed since 2018 are former prosecutors adds to the surreal nature of this situation.

News: Ontario lawyers’ group calls for meeting over Ford government’s judicial appointments

Doug Ford's plan to appoint "like-minded" judges, criticized for its partisanship, raises concerns of compromising the independence of the Canadian judiciary, paralleling trends observed during the Trump administration in the U.S.

February 28, 2024

A Toronto Star editorial rightfully criticizes Ford’s decision to appoint former senior staffers to the Judicial Appointments Advisory Committee, emphasizing the risk of jeopardizing the non-partisan model for judicial appointments. The editorial underscores that merit, not political alliances or teenage friendships, should be the foundation for such crucial appointments.

Ford’s justification for these appointments, echoing his teenage proclamation to “appoint like-minded individuals,” reflects a concerning trend of politicizing a vital aspect of our justice system. The Federation of Ontario Law Associations has aptly condemned these moves, characterizing Ford’s understanding of the role of an independent judiciary as “juvenile.”

Drawing parallels between Ford’s approach and the U.S. Supreme Court under the Trump administration, it becomes evident that his efforts to stack the courts with ideologically aligned judges pose a clear threat to the independence of Ontario’s judiciary. Ford appointing his teenage buddies as judges serves as a symbolic representation of the potential risks associated with his questionable approach to judicial appointments.

March 8, 2019

The peculiar journey from Young Doug Ford’s questionable teenage antics to Premier Ford’s controversial approach to judicial appointments offers a reflection on the potential consequences of mixing personal biases with matters of justice. The fictionalized rejection of suspect substances in his youth, followed by the ironic appointment of his buddies as judges, serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting dubious behaviours influence crucial decisions.

As we scrutinize the composition of our courts and consider the values upheld by our leaders, it becomes evident that Young Doug Ford’s past and Premier Ford’s present actions intertwine in a peculiar narrative. The call for voters to prioritize the principles of merit-based selection and the safeguarding of judicial independence remains crucial. Let us ensure that the echoes of Young Doug Ford do not reverberate in the halls of justice, preserving the integrity and fairness of our legal system for generations to come. (AI)

 

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2024-06, appointee, court, crony, judges, Judiciary, justice, Ontario, patronage, YDF, Young Doug Ford
1 2 3 Next »

Please note…

This website contains satirical commentaries of current events going back several decades. Some readers may not share this sense of humour nor the opinions expressed by the artist. To understand editorial cartoons it is important to understand their effectiveness as a counterweight to power. It is presumed readers approach satire with a broad minded foundation and healthy knowledge of objective facts of the subjects depicted.

  • The Hamilton Spectator
  • The Toronto Star
  • The Globe & Mail
  • The National Post
  • Graeme on T̶w̶i̶t̶t̶e̶r̶ ̶(̶X̶)̶
  • Graeme on F̶a̶c̶e̶b̶o̶o̶k̶
  • Graeme on T̶h̶r̶e̶a̶d̶s̶
  • Graeme on Instagram
  • Graeme on Substack
  • Graeme on Bluesky
  • Graeme on Pinterest
  • Graeme on YouTube
New and updated for 2025
  • HOME
  • MacKaycartoons Inc.
  • The Boutique
  • The Hamilton Spectator
  • The Association of Canadian Cartoonists
  • The Association of American Editorial Cartoonists
  • You Might be From Hamilton if…
  • Young Doug Ford
  • MacKay’s Most Viral Cartoon
  • Intellectual Property Thief Donkeys
  • Wes Tyrell
  • Martin Rowson
  • Guy Bado’s Blog
  • National Newswatch
...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

Brand New Designs!

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

MacKay’s Virtual Gallery

Archives

Copyright © 2016 mackaycartoons.net

Powered by Wordpess and Alpha.

Social media & sharing icons powered by UltimatelySocial
 

Loading Comments...