mackaycartoons

Graeme MacKay's Editorial Cartoon Archive

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

Young Doug Ford

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 February 28, 2025

February 28, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

 Doug Ford's strategic early election call, framed around countering Donald Trump's trade threats, positions him for a historic third majority in Ontario

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 28, 2025

Published in the Toronto Star.

Ford’s Early Gamble Pays Off: Ontario’s Vote Against Trump Turmoil

Young Doug Ford: The Series

Doug Ford’s quest to seek a strong mandate from Ontario voters, a full 18 months before the set election date, can be seen as a strategic move deeply entwined with the tumultuous political climate influenced by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump’s rhetoric, often perceived as unpredictable and controversial, has not only riled up Canadians but also provided Ford with an opportunity to consolidate his political strength in Ontario.

In calling an early election, Ford positioned himself as a leader ready to protect Ontario’s economy from the looming threats of U.S. tariffs. By framing the election around the need for a robust mandate to confront these challenges, Ford managed to shift the narrative from domestic controversies to international economic concerns. His campaign emphasized his visits to Washington, where he sought to lobby U.S. lawmakers and defend Ontario’s interests, a move that resonated with voters wary of Trump’s trade policies.

News: Doug Ford on track to get that bigger mandate

Voting is essential for democracy, as it empowers individuals to express their beliefs and influence the future of their communities and nation.

January 23, 2006

This strategic pivot allowed Ford to capitalize on the anxiety surrounding international trade and align himself with Ontarians’ desire for stability and economic security. The narrative of standing up against external threats created a unifying theme for his campaign, overshadowing some of the criticisms related to his governance, such as issues with healthcare, housing, and environmental policies.

Polls leading up to election day indicated that Ford’s gamble was paying off. A significant lead over his rivals suggested that his message resonated with a broad spectrum of voters. The Progressive Conservatives appeared poised to secure a third consecutive majority government, an achievement that would place Ford in rare company in Ontario’s political history.

The polls revealed not just a lead in popular support but also a strategic advantage across various demographics and regions. Ford’s ability to appeal to both traditional conservative bases and swing voters concerned about economic stability gave him a comprehensive edge. The data suggested that despite underlying dissatisfaction with some provincial directions, many voters still saw Ford as the best option to navigate the uncertain global economic landscape.

News: Ontario heads to polls for snap election in face of looming Trump tariffs

The increasing control over political candidates' public engagements in Ontario raises concerns about transparency and democracy, reflecting a shift towards meticulous message management at the cost of open debate.

February 19, 2025

In contrast, Ford’s opponents, while focusing on crucial domestic issues like healthcare and housing, struggled to gain the same level of traction. The Liberals and New Democrats faced the challenge of presenting a compelling alternative narrative in a climate dominated by concerns over U.S.-Canada relations.

As Ontario voters headed to the polls, it became clear that Ford’s early election call, although risky, was a calculated move that leveraged international dynamics to reinforce his leadership. By deftly capitalizing on Trump’s rhetoric and the subsequent economic concerns, Ford positioned himself not just as a provincial leader but as a key player in navigating Ontario through the complexities of global politics.

Doug Ford’s quest for a strong mandate, framed around the issue of Donald Trump, underscored his strategic acumen in aligning provincial politics with broader geopolitical concerns. The polls pointed to a likely victory, affirming that Ford’s approach resonated with voters seeking stability and decisive leadership in uncertain times. As the election unfolded, it was evident that Ford’s gamble on early elections and his focus on economic defence had solidified his path to securing the strong mandate he sought.


Subscription Membership Has its Privileges (My morning after the election cartoon only you and a few get to see before everyone else)

Creating editorial cartoons during an election is a dance with uncertainty, where the risk of choosing the right narrative before the results roll in is both thrilling and daunting. In the past, I’d sketch out multiple scenarios, each capturing different outcomes for Ontario’s political landscape: a PC majority, a surprise NDP surge, or a Liberal comeback. But with deadlines closing in before the polls, the luxury of waiting for results has vanished.

The “Young Doug Ford” series is my playful take on these times, where satire meets the unpredictable nature of politics. This particular piece, featuring a youthful Donald Trump in oversized fur, surrounded by Doug Ford and his buddies with their humourous “mandates,” was a gamble. My editor’s nervousness was palpable—what if the election didn’t align with the cartoon’s narrative? But that’s the beauty and risk of editorial cartooning: capturing the spirit of the moment, even if the specifics remain uncertain.

Gone are the days of newsroom hustle after polls close. The immediacy of digital deadlines has replaced the tactile adjustments of ink and paper. Editorial board meetings with party leaders and meet-and-greets with candidates that once enriched our perspectives are fading memories. Today, many candidates dodge public forums and media questions, a trend that mirrors the disconnection felt by voters. This disengagement challenges cartoonists to find fresh ways to connect with audiences, using humour and creativity to spark conversation in an era of political fatigue.

In this shifting landscape, the creative process remains an anchor. It’s about interpreting the zeitgeist, taking risks, and sometimes, embracing the uncertainty. Even as the times change, the mission of editorial cartoons—to provoke thought, entertain, and challenge the status quo—remains steadfast, a testament to the enduring power of satire in political discourse.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 28, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2025-04, Donald Trump, Doug Ford, Economy, election, majority, mandate, Ontario, polls, strategy, Substack, tariffs, Trade, voters, 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

Tuesday November 5, 2024

November 5, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

As the closest election in living memory comes to a close on voting day, with anxieties running high, relief arrives in the form of Graeme MacKay's imagined Young Doug Ford comic set on election day 1976.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday November 5, 2024

Election Day 1976 dawned chilly in Etobicoke, Ontario, but that didn’t faze Young Doug Ford or his band of misfit friends. They were high school headbangers, known for their lumber jackets, Kodiak Greb work boots, and hair parted right down the middle, as if they’d stepped off the back cover of a KISS record. Doug, ever the ringleader, proudly sported a baseball shirt emblazoned with the Helix logo, his favourite homegrown rock band, while Kyle and Duart rocked their ACDC and Black Sabbath tees, the images cracked and faded from countless washings.

Series: Young Doug Ford

The Ford basement was their kingdom — a den reeking of second-hand smoke and cheap beer, with posters of Led Zeppelin and Blue Öyster Cult plastered over the wood-panelled walls. A tattered La-Z-Boy, snagged from the curb near Rathburn after old Mrs. Papadopoulos down the street tossed it, served as the throne where Doug plotted the day’s mischief. The room thrummed with Paranoid by Black Sabbath from the record player as the boys threw back stolen Labatt’s 50, its bitterness still unfamiliar but exhilaratingly rebellious.

“Boys, today’s the day we see if the U.S. goes soft with Carter or keeps it cool with Ford,” Doug declared, cracking open another beer, the foam spilling onto his Kodiaks. Kyle, a chain-smoker who could barely stay still, flicked ash into an empty Pop Shoppe bottle and raised his cigarette like a toast.

“If Carter wins, it’s gonna be disco-mania. Mark my words, Dougie. You can kiss our kind of music goodbye. Next thing you know, the states’ll be all ‘Afros and bell bottoms,’” Kyle said, rolling his eyes.

Duart, who had a habit of nodding along as if on some invisible metronome — probably thanks to the joint he’d lit before coming over — chuckled, sending a thin plume of smoke swirling. “Don’t sweat it. Even if Carter wins, we’ve still got Yonge Street, man. The rock scene is invincible,” he said, eyes half-lidded and red-rimmed.

June 15, 2023

The TV flickered to life in the corner, its reception shaky, showing Tom Gibney with election updates. They leaned in as the numbers rolled in, the static hiss punctuating the silence. Gerald Ford was struggling to hold onto key states. Doug slumped in his seat, taking a long swig of his C-Plus.

“Come on, man,” he muttered, tapping his foot so hard it thumped against the linoleum like John Bonham’s bass drum. “This peanut farmer’s gonna ruin everything. Next thing you know, it’ll be acoustic guitars and peace rallies.”

Duart, with smoke trailing from his mouth, cracked a smile. “Doug, you stress too much. Relax, man, like Page and Plant — the music will survive no matter who’s in charge.”

“Yeah,” Kyle added, a crooked grin appearing as he lifted a six-pack he’d pinched from his dad’s garage, “and if it doesn’t, we can always sneak into the Gasworks and forget the whole thing with some real tunes.”

As night fell, Doug’s disappointment was palpable. Gibney’s voice sealed the deal: Carter was leading, soon to be the 39th president. Doug crumpled an empty can in his fist and sighed. But outside, the orange glow of street lamps and the laughter of teens cruising down the block in a beaten-up Pontiac reminded them that Etobicoke was still theirs.

Kyle turned the record over to High Voltage by ACDC and turned the volume up until the basement walls rattled. “Screw Carter, Dougie. We’ve got rock, and we’ve got each other.”

And so, the boys headbanged in defiance, their silhouettes wild and rebellious in the basement glow, a reminder that no election could take away the pounding heart of rock ’n’ roll from Etobicoke.

“Young Doug Ford” is my ongoing comic strip that allows me to reflect on youthful memories while touching on regional news events. We’re talking about the current Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, and speculating about his youth.

Admittedly, the series may resonate primarily with a narrow demographic—people from Ontario who lived through their formative years in the 1970s and into the mid-1980s. I notice this whenever I post my “Young Doug Ford” strips on social media, as the likers and sharers tend to be primarily middle-aged account holders.

However, it doesn’t have to be this way. I like to think Doug Ford represents the populist everyman politician. His style is not uncommon in the politics of today or yesteryear. He’s not particularly ideological; he wants to be liked and acts accordingly when the criticisms become harsh. In that sense, he’s as “for the people” as any populist premier or governor, and he’s quite skilled at it. What he struggles with is keeping a lid on enriching his friends and political donors.

Still, he’s a popular leader and likely one of the few politicians you could envision having a beer and wings with—if only he weren’t a teetotaller and a vegetarian. Oh well.

Some have suggested that I should publish a book of the “Young Doug Ford” series. I’m not sure. It’s a niche topic that could be fantastic for the aforementioned age demographic, but it might quickly become bargain-bin filler thereafter.

On my website, I note that the series made its debut in early summer 2018, coinciding with the Ontario government’s investigation into pricing following the legalization of cannabis across Canada. Doug’s time as a hash dealer in high school is part of a long-form story about the Ford family that can be easily found with a few keystrokes on the Globe and Mail website. Partisan posters often highlight Doug’s dubious past under any given “Young Doug Ford” strip, and you can practically feel the cannabis fumes wafting from the frenzied typing of critics retelling the old story. It’s not far-fetched; Doug’s brother Rob became infamous as the crack-smoking mayor of Toronto and passed away from cancer in 2016.

Returning to my website, I remind my interrogators—especially those older than me—that my generation had to endure retrospective homages to Elvis, the 1950s, and the cultural aspects of those times. This is my small contribution to preserving memories of a bygone era while gently ribbing the top guy currently running the province.

Doug Ford and I are of similar age—he from Etobicoke and I from suburban Hamilton, specifically Dundas. He’s the first Premier who isn’t 15 years older than me. Like me, he’s the second youngest of four kids (three boys and one girl). Our upbringings were quite comfortable; his father was a successful businessman, while my father was a dentist. I believe I have a good understanding of what his youth was like. The series has shifted from satire towards Ford to more of a nostalgic slice of time for my fellow middle-agers.

The alignment of this anxious moment in American history—on the cusp of what’s expected to be one of the closest elections in living memory—parallels an election from 48 years ago, particularly given the name of another Ford running for office. We all know how that election turned out; as for the 2024 vote, we can only wait and see. In the meantime, enjoy my latest episode of “Young Doug Ford.”

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario, USA Tagged: 1976, 2024-20, anxiety, Doug Ford, Geral Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ontario, USA, Young Doug Ford
1 2 … 11 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...