A Southwestern Ontario politician has become known for injecting a dose of playful personality into the traditionally formal world of Queen’s Park, and this year’s Christmas card is sparking debate.
Bobbi Ann Brady, the Independent MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk, deliberately breaks from the mold of typical holiday greetings. While many politicians opt for posed family photos, Brady embraces creativity and a touch of whimsy.
Past cards have featured her confidently astride a horse and playfully poised on an outdoor hockey rink, complete with a dress and high heels. She’s cultivated a reputation as the “fun MPP” within the legislative building.
This year’s card depicts Brady barefoot, comfortably clad in festive Dr. Seuss pajamas, perched backward on a metal chair, and enjoying a mug emblazoned with the words: “Naughty. Nice. I tried.” She explains the mug is a playful nod to the realities of political life.
The card, which Brady confirmed was approved by the Legislative Assembly, has garnered significant online support, with hundreds of positive comments. Photographer Daryl Granger, a longtime friend, praised her authenticity and spirit.
However, the card has also drawn criticism from former Norfolk County Mayor Dennis Travale, a long-standing detractor. He received copies of the card and voiced his disapproval on social media.
Travale deemed the pose “suggestive and extremely inappropriate,” questioning its connection to the celebration of Christmas. He challenged whether a similar pose by a male politician would be met with the same criticism, labeling it unprofessional and immature.
Brady vehemently dismissed the criticism as “completely politically charged,” asserting that any perceived suggestiveness lies solely with the observer. She emphasized she was wearing pajamas and the mug conveyed the intended message of lightheartedness.
She believes her relatability, a departure from the traditional politician in a suit, is a key factor in her success. Brady refuses to compromise her personality to appease critics.
The cards are personally delivered to a few hundred individuals at Queen’s Park and will be mailed to approximately two thousand constituents with whom she’s connected throughout the year, each accompanied by a handwritten message and a New Year’s invitation.
Brady, who ran as an independent after a contentious nomination process in 2022, directly challenged Travale and others condemning her card, calling their actions “disgusting” and urging them to focus on policy instead of personal attacks.
She firmly believes that being elected shouldn’t require sacrificing one’s unique personality and that those who choose to criticize her character during the holiday season reveal more about themselves than about her.
