He-Whose-Name-Must-Not-Be-Mentioned aka DIC: Part Two

Saturday June 21, 2025 | Substack Newsletter 32

This past Saturday, I participated in a panel discussion with fellow editorial cartoonists focused on the U.S. President. As expected, the topic of the Distractor-In-Chief (affectionately referred to as DIC for the purposes of this piece) came up, with many expressing concerns about how he diverts our attention from pressing issues. I wrote about my own paranoia about this in a previous newsletter, “He Whose Face Shall Not Be Depicted.”

Toronto Star cartoonist Theo Moudakis offered a witty counterargument, suggesting that the President is not just a distraction, but also incredibly dull. He pointed out the endless repetitions of the President's long ties, monarchical robes, and dictator attire, humorously noting that we cartoonists could probably sketch him with our eyes closed and hands tied behind our backs.

When it was my turn to respond to the frustrations surrounding DIC, I declared, “I’m all about ‘Canada First!’” The moment I said it, I realized how easily one can slip into loaded rhetoric more typical of Pierre Poilievre (channelling DIC) than an editorial cartoonist. Laughter erupted from the audience, overshadowing gasps from my Toronto Star colleague, while Andy Donato and Sue Dewar from the Toronto Sun cheered—though Sue quickly identified herself as coming from the left... Andy? Well, that’s another story.

Years ago, during the early days of the DIC era, I lamented the pervasive presence of his image in our lives, as this 2018 edition of the series *Spectacle* explores. My main argument was that he distracts us to such an extent that we overlook significant local issues.

Ultimately, it boils down to understanding one’s audience. Yes, local matters are crucial, but recent voter turnout statistics reveal what truly resonates with the public. Local elections struggle with a turnout of around 35%, while nearly 70% participated in the recent federal election this past April, and Ontario's provincial elections hover around 45%.

What I’m getting at is that the people around me seem more engaged with national and global issues than with those in their own backyard. This reality underscores DIC's relevance; his decisions and inactions—often postponed every two weeks—directly influence our lives, from the price of coffee to our ability to take vacations in Florida, not to mention the collective anxiety from rising tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine. Even locally, at places like the parking lot of the local Home Depot, we see economic impacts from rising aluminum and steel prices. In some parts of the U.S., there's also the unsettling sight of ICE Storm troopers cracking down on migrant day labourers.

He-Whose-Name-Must-Not-Be-Mentioned, or DIC, may be boring, but he’s likely to remain a fixture for at least the next three and a half years, if not longer—unless, of course, nature takes its course. Aware of his monotony, I made a conscious effort this week to avoid depicting his face, opting instead for a stylized representation reminiscent of a tikki mask, which you’ll see below.

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the past week’s highlights in editorial cartoons, featuring DIC throughout.

Tuesday June 17, 2025 - Young Mark Carney Cameo Appearance

In my long running "Young Doug Ford" comic, the critiques is made toward the push for rapid economic development at the expense of inclusive governance. As Ontario and the federal government push through legislation aimed at accelerating resource projects, the cartoon highlights the consequences of bypassing necessary consultations with communities both Indigenous and non-Indigenous. The characters, introducing a young Mark Carney and Doug Ford, depict a cavalier attitude toward environmental and community engagement. The comic underscores the tension between economic urgency and the need for respectful, inclusive dialogue, suggesting that neglecting the latter could jeopardize the progress these initiatives aim to achieve. Ironically, the push to “build, baby, build” that Carney likes to use to rally the troops has an uncanny counter ring to “drill, baby, drill”, that you know who likes to mutter to his own base.

Wednesday June 18, 2025 - Boltin’ Donny DIC

At the G7 Summit in Kananaskis highlights DIC’s hasty exit amid escalating Middle East tensions. This time it seemed he wasn’t doing the distracting, he darted the gathering because he was distracted - but one suspects he had no time for Volodymyr Zelenskyy who was scheduled to attend on day two. The cartoon critiques his abrupt departure, which left crucial discussions, such as support for Ukraine, unresolved. While some world leaders might appreciate the respite from his erratic behaviour, this action underscores Trump's persistent detachment from global collaboration. There emerged some wonderful clips of leaders rolling their eyes, furling eyebrows and winking at one another like scallywags no doubt responding to DICs antics. His "America First" anti-globalist mindset starkly contrasts with the cooperative spirit required on the international stage. As conflicts between Israel and Iran intensify, the cartoon questions whether such leadership, characterized by impulsive exits over dialogue and diplomacy, serves the global community effectively.

Thursday June 19, 2025 - Hotheads at the Helm: Navigating Middle East Turbulence

The narrative intensifies as Benjamin Netanyahu, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and DIC steer the Middle East through a dangerous geopolitical storm. DICs transition from TACO (____ Always Chickens Out) to FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) highlights his unpredictable leadership style amidst this critical juncture. The cartoon paints a dire picture of three aging leaders more concerned with their legacies than global peace, leaving the world precariously close to another crisis if cooler heads don’t prevail.

Friday June 20, 2025 - Premier Doug’s Inappropriate Dance

The focus shifts to Ontario's Ring of Fire region, where the push for economic development through Bill 5 has sparked significant controversy. Premier Doug Ford's insensitive remarks about Indigenous communities seeking "handouts" have drawn sharp criticism, highlighting the vital need for respectful engagement. Despite his belated apology alongside Indigenous leaders, the cartoon underscores the importance of balancing development with the protection of Indigenous rights and the environment. It advocates for open dialogue and collaboration to ensure that the region's economic potential is realized responsibly, honouring commitments to Indigenous communities and respecting their deep connection to the land. Let’s not forget this is the guy who won a third term based on the promise to be the great saviour in a time of hostility thanks to guess who: DIC.

Saturday June 21, 2025 - Tariffs, Flames, and Summer Games: A Season of Surprises

A lighter tone emerges amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Canada and the world. As the Summer Solstice marks the arrival of summer, the cartoon playfully reflects on political and environmental issues. Prime Minister (in a hurry) Mark Carney's 30-day tariff strategy and Bill C-5's impact on First Nations create tension, while DIC’s hasty decision timelines add to the unpredictability. Despite the lack of climate discussions at the G7 meeting and the backdrop of wildfires, the cartoon captures an optimistic glimmer as summer offers a much-needed respite. It invites viewers to find solace in the season's simple joys, providing a temporary escape from the complexities of the world.

I'm reminded to tread carefully with DIC from Daryl Cagle who runs a U.S. based syndicate that distributes the work of editorial cartoonists including my own. The President’s divisiveness makes editors wary, especially in a shifting industry, and many are choosing not to run cartoons that focus on him but instead content that reflects social commentary that offends the least. I call the result of this the Hallmark-ization of satire, but let’s leave that subject for another day.

This week, my cartoons explored politics, leadership, and environmental challenges, from Ontario's legislative pushes to DICs unpredictable actions. They highlight the need for inclusive governance and reveal how leaders often prioritize legacy over collaboration.

As summer arrives, a glimmer of optimism emerges. Despite the chaos, the season offers simple pleasures and a temporary escape, reminding us of life's resilience. Daryl's advice encourages me to look beyond DIC, finding fresh stories that engage and inspire.

Happy Solstice!

The week that was in 2 minutes and 18 seconds. Please enjoy this magical making-of extravaganza for the editorial cartoons above in animated wonderfulness:

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