Joel Connelly

I worked for Seattle Post-Intelligencer from 1973 until it ceased print publication in 2009, and SeattlePI.com from 2009 to 6/30/2020. During that time, I wrote about 9 presidential races, 11 Canadian and British Columbia elections‎, four doomed WPPSS nuclear plants, six Washington wilderness battles, creation of two national Monuments (Hanford Reach and San Juan Islands), a 104 million acre Alaska Lands Act, plus the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area.

Trump’s China-Style Cultural Revolution: Punishing Free Speech

The autonomy of universities is no longer recognized. ICE agents are now allowed to barge into places of worship. The nation’s boss man fires the management of a cherished cultural institution.

Trump’s Gift to Canada: Liberal Party Surges as Canada Faces Spring Election

Since Mark Carney took the helm, and took on Trump, the governing Liberal Party has soared in the polls.

Gov. Ferguson’s Pickle: Is He Opening the Door to Republicans?

Newly elected Gov. Bob Ferguson, a noted chess master, should be on his game right now. But instead, he appears conflicted in what moves to make.

Canada’s new PM makes his First Moves

Carney is clearing the decks. He now needs a visible achievement, promising expanded trans Atlantic trade and renewal of Commonwealth ties.

Sen. Murray Takes on Trump: And our other Representatives?

The Trump presidency, while a disaster for America, is bringing out the best in Murray.

Canada’s New Prime Minister: Ready for Action, Coming out Swinging

Carney came out swinging at Donald Trump and his tariffs, and linked opposition Conservative Party leader Pieter Polievre — often called the Trump of the north — to the American President. 

Abuse of Power: Trump Goes After Seattle Law Firm

The real reason for Trump’s over-reaction, missed by national press, is that Perkins Coie has helped elect Democrats in tight races.

The Great Unifier: Has Trump Saved Canada’s Liberal Party from Defeat?

The Liberal leadership shift has produced a dizzying swing in public opinion.

Power Politics: Orchestra Conductors Versus Tyranny

“If concerts offer nothing, then people will not attend,” Furtwangler wrote to Goebbels. “That is why quality is not just an ideal. It is vital.” It was a cultured, conservative German’s distaste of ruthless barbarians.

Canada Prepares to Defend itself from the US

The sower of wind is reaping the whirlwind. The threat of Trump has unified Canadians of all stripes.

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