Journal addresses concerns over Haaland cartoon

The Albuquerque Journal’s managing editor addressed criticism of an editorial cartoon depicting Gov.-elect Deb Haaland, acknowledging that its “totem pole” punch line overlooked cultural implications. The cartoon, published Nov. 8, paired a reference to Haaland’s historic election as the first Native American woman governor with a joke about New Mexico’s low national rankings. Editor James Bennett said the paper would learn from readers’ feedback while standing by the cartoonist’s intent.