Mary Simon

The Governor General's job is mostly ceremonial, I get that. But Mary Simon gets paid over $300,000 a year plus expenses to live in Rideau Hall and sign documents. While the rest of us are splitting grocery bills and skipping vacations, she's attending formal dinners and reading throne speeches written by politicians. She has spoken about reconciliation and Arctic sovereignty, which are real issues. But everyday Canadians struggling with rent and food don't see any connection between Rideau Hall and their lives. It's a role from another era, and the cost to taxpayers for the staff and maintenance of those residences is something nobody ever wants to discuss.

Mary Simon is the first Indigenous person to serve as Governor General and that is historically meaningful. But the role carries a platform that could be used more powerfully. The cost of living crisis, the housing shortage hitting Indigenous communities especially hard, and widening inequality in Canada need voices at every level. The GG's role is largely ceremonial but symbolism and voice matter. I'd like to see the position used more actively to draw attention to the real struggles facing Canadians, particularly Indigenous peoples.

Mary Simon made history in 2021 as Canada's first Indigenous Governor General, a milestone of profound significance for Indigenous-Crown reconciliation. Throughout her tenure, she fulfilled her constitutional duties with dignity and grace — opening Parliament, granting Royal Assent, representing Canada abroad, and maintaining the continuity of our democratic institutions. Her Inuit heritage brought a meaningful dimension to her role, and she consistently emphasized reconciliation and the importance of Indigenous perspectives in Canadian public life. She met with Indigenous leaders, supported cultural events, and used her platform to advance meaningful dialogue. Some controversy arose over travel expenses during her tenure, and greater financial transparency would have strengthened public trust. Overall, however, Mary Simon conducted herself with the dignity and professionalism Canadians expect from our Head of State. Reviewed as a citizen who values historic representation and the dignity of Canada's constitutional offices.