The cartoon by Graeme MacKay contrasts Theodore Roosevelt's famous speak softly and carry a big stick approach with Donald Trump's version of yelling loudly and spinning a stick covered in tariffs. In the lower panel Trump appears dizzy from the motion as a Canadian hand offers toilet tissue labeled tariff-free wipes. The image comments on recent US tariff actions and their impact on Canadian trade relations as of the September 2026 publication date.
The United States has extended a zero-tariff policy offer to African nations amid ongoing global trade tensions. This move stands in contrast to simultaneous use of tariffs and sanctions against other trading partners. The policy highlights selective economic engagement by Washington. The editorial position criticizes the inconsistency between the overture to Africa and the punitive approach applied more broadly.
Public attention is being directed toward simultaneous Iran and trade conflicts as potential diversions from other issues. The editorial depicts the two crises as interchangeable distractions promoted by the same source. It argues that leaders are using these flashpoints to shift focus rather than address underlying problems.
Donald Trump expanded tariffs across trading partners in mid-2026, triggering immediate market volatility and diplomatic pushback. The move raised costs for consumers and businesses reliant on imports. The piece portrays the policy as an indiscriminate barrage that disrupts daily life and global commerce.
President Trump escalates tariffs on trading partners including Canada in mid-2026. The move targets imports amid ongoing disputes over trade balances and supply chains. Allies respond with coordinated pushback through diplomatic and economic channels. The cartoon casts the confrontation as a one-sided power play by the oversized tariff wielder against smaller coordinated opponents.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint for global oil transit as the United States and Iran maintain opposing stances on access. Donald Trump positions an open checkpoint while an Iranian official signals closure. The editorial highlights the standoff's direct impact on energy markets and shipping security.
The cartoon shows Canada as a beaver facing a game show choice between monstrous figures representing the USA under Trump and China under Xi. A newspaper references Mark Carney in China amid ongoing trade tensions and protectionism.
Two men discuss Trump's aluminum tariff at a pool table surrounded by Burp Beer cans and a dripping MAGA cap. The scene highlights rising costs from trade duties on aluminum and steel affecting everyday items like beer. Publication occurs during renewed focus on tariffs targeting Canada and Mexico.
On July 11, 2025, a cartoon depicts the White House with a crossed on-off weather vane atop its roof. A suited man and a woman stand on the lawn, the latter stating in a speech bubble that the issue concerns tariffs rather than weather. The image responds to ongoing Trump administration tariff measures and resulting trade frictions affecting markets and Republican priorities.
On April 8, 2025, the cartoon depicts Donald Trump proclaiming trade wars easy to win while retaliatory tariff bombs fall around a downed Uncle Sam, reflecting ongoing U.S. tariff policies and international responses from Europe and China.
On February 4 2025 the cartoon depicts Donald Trump aboard a tank constructed from gold coins marked with dollar signs and tariff labels. The vehicle advances across a globe bearing flags of Canada Mexico the European Union and China. A red banner proclaims Trump Tariffs as the barrel extends forward.
On February 2 2025 President Donald Trump announced new tariffs targeting Canadian and Mexican imports. The move immediately raised concerns in Ottawa about economic fallout and strained relations with close neighbors. Cartoonist Graeme MacKay depicts the three nations as floors in one shaky house with Trump fanning flames from below while Canadians react in alarm above.
