Fading Prime Ministers
Tuesday May 14, 2025
It was swearing-in day in Canada, a moment marking yet another leap forward from the political chaos left by the previous Prime Minister. We've finally got some stability back, and while economic clouds still loom, much of that was stirred up by an erratic leader from next door. It's essential to remember those darker days; they remind us to appreciate the brighter ones. I know it sounds odd for me, a professional pessimist, to speak so positively. But there really is a sense in the air that Canada has been reset after months of a power vacuum. Remember how terrible the period was so we never have to go through such a time again. And no, I'm not sucking up to the new guy like he'll wave a magic wand and all will be well. Carney's at the top of his power now, and his cred assures a high likelihood that Canadians are going to get their money's worth from the two-time central banker we've entrusted to deal with the troubled times ahead. Now, with Mark Carney at the helm, we're on a more decisive and hopeful path. His new cabinet, a mix of seasoned pros and fresh faces, is ready to tackle big issues like trade and the economy. In a few weeks, we'll hear the King’s speech, setting the stage for a government eager to bring innovative ideas to the table. It feels like a new chapter for Canada, and one that’s hopefully filled with progress and positivity.
Ahhhh, Spring!
Let’s remind ourselves of the last swearing-in ceremony after a federal election:
Following the 2021 election, Chrystia Freeland became known as the "minister of everything" in the Trudeau cabinet, positioning herself as a strong contender for the Liberal Party leadership, though her close ties to Trudeau and past controversies posed challenges to her ambitions. (Cartoon from October 26, 2021)
Two thousand cartoons ago, I sketched something strikingly similar to what's appearing in newspapers, tomorrow, May 14, 2025. Call it self-plagiarism if you want to be mean… but I see it as continuity. There's a familiar theme in the world of power politics: each Prime Minister seems to erase the legacy of their predecessor. Remember when Trudeau did it to Harper? It wasn't surprising, given their political rivalry. Now, Carney is doing something similar to Trudeau, albeit in a more strategic and respectful manner. He recognizes Trudeau's unpopularity but also understands the value of experience and expertise from certain cabinet members who carry the baggage of the previous regime. Carney's approach cleverly navigates the fine line between honouring past contributions and setting a new course that aligns with the public's evolving expectations. It's a delicate dance, but one that seems fitting for the times.
In 2015, the Trudeau government revived legal arguments from the Harper era to oppose a lawsuit by Afghan war veterans seeking lifetime pensions, arguing there was no formal obligation to provide them. This move contradicted Liberal campaign promises to enhance veteran support and led to dissatisfaction within the veterans' community, with the case continuing in the B.C. Court of Appeals. (Cartoon from June 17, 2016)
As it goes with Canadian political history, Prime Ministers often rise to power amidst a whirlwind of fanfare and hope, only to depart without much love, frequently resigned in disgrace or ousted by voters. Their legacies are often relegated to obscurity until years later when time and reflection allow for some rehabilitation. Mark Carney currently stands at the pinnacle, with all eyes on him and expectations running high. But as history teaches us, this position is fleeting. He should savour this moment while he can, because for most Prime Ministers, staying too long tends to lead to a rather tragic end. The cycle of political power is unforgiving, and Carney's path will be no exception if he lingers past his time.
Substack is an invaluable platform for me, especially given the uncertainties that come with being a staff editorial cartoonist. While I remain optimistic about my future, I am acutely aware of the unfortunate layoffs and newspaper closures that have impacted many talented colleagues in our field. Please Enjoy the animated making of my May 14, 2025 editorial cartoon below and thank you for your continued support!