Ward 12 Shocker: New Councillor Under Scrutiny for Controversial Support

Calgary's political landscape is stirring, particularly in the city's expansive southeast Ward 12, following the recent election of Mike Jamieson. Elected on October 21, 2025, Jamieson's narrow victory has quickly shifted from a celebration of new representation to a conversation about the company he keeps: long-time political figure Craig Chandler.

Chandler is well-known for his provocative rhetoric, which includes past apologies for comments deemed homophobic, suggestions that gayness is a "genetic weakness," and advising immigrants to leave Alberta if they don't vote conservative. He also resigned from a PC party board after accusing a restaurant chain of supporting terrorism over purchasing halal beef, and has been associated with videos allegedly mocking Indigenous culture.

This endorsement raises eyebrows in a city that prides itself on its vibrant diversity and commitment to inclusion. The City of Calgary officially champions a Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, and recently passed a "Safe and Inclusive Access Bylaw" to protect equity-deserving communities from discriminatory protests. While Ward 12 is largely suburban with a higher median income, it is home to over 101,000 residents and a significant immigrant population, reflecting Calgary's broader multicultural fabric. This election already saw a decrease in gender and racial diversity on the new city council, making discussions around inclusive representation even more critical.

Jamieson, who campaigned with A Better Calgary Party promising less government and a focus on core services, now faces the challenge of representing a diverse ward while navigating the implications of such a polarizing endorsement. What this means for Ward 12's inclusive spirit and how the new councillor will address these concerns remains to be seen.