As we gear up for what feels like the impending doom of another Presidential inauguration down south, it’s hard not to feel a sense of foreboding here in Canada. Are you feeling it where ever you are?Normally, this day wouldn’t even register on our radar, but with the MAGA crowd having their moment under the spotlight once again, it’s like dark clouds are rolling in, promising a storm of uncertainty for the next few years.

The looming threat of 25% tariffs has many of us on edge, but I can’t help but worry more about the millions of undocumented migrants in the U.S. who are just trying to survive. As Trump prepares to take the stage, I can’t shake the feeling that it’s going to be a wild ride filled with lofty promises that are bound to lead to disappointment. After all, not every miracle he’s claiming can come to pass, and his rhetoric often overshadows the realities faced by so many.

Back home, our politicians are scrambling. With Trudeau’s exit approaching, provincial premiers are stepping up to fill the leadership void. Danielle Smith is cozying up to Trump, no doubt relishing the attention she’ll get as one of the few Canadian officials attending the inauguration. Meanwhile, Doug Ford is taking a bold stand against the proposed tariffs with his Fortress Am-Can plan, positioning himself as Canada’s tough guy in the face of America’s tough guy. It’s quite the spectacle, and I have to admit, he’s commanding attention on U.S. cable networks like no other - with the exception of Mark Carney snagging an interview shot on John Stewart’s show.

Ford’s evolution from a controversial provincial leader, to a key national figure is fascinating, especially as he steps in to lead amidst the uncertainty left by Trudeau. With Canada grappling with economic challenges reminiscent of the pandemic, his proactive approach is a breath of fresh air. While his focus on national unity is commendable, we can’t forget his past controversies, lots of bad stuff I’ve drawn on for years, which could complicate things if the political landscape shifts again.

Give credit to where it’s due. Doug Ford is our first line of defence against the MAGA monster right now. Things are moving fast, however, and I foresee more voices filling the vacuum in the coming days giving Dougie some competition for the reigning title of Captain Canada.

Enjoy the January 15, 2025 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday or 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.