New Hampshire’s political scene is about to get a familiar dose of pointed commentary. Veteran editorial cartoonist Mike Marland is returning to InDepthNH.org, bringing with him his signature Up on the Hill cartoon after a five-year hiatus. The reboot comes as Marland expresses frustration with the current political landscape, particularly what he describes as “the abomination that is Trump along with his cohorts and his MAGA minions.” This return marks a significant moment for New Hampshire’s local political cartooning, a space Marland has shaped for decades.
Marland, a New Hampshire native, previously stepped back from regular cartooning in 2021, following a stint with InDepthNH.org. Before that, he had been a fixture at over 20 New Hampshire news outlets for four decades, a testament to his enduring relevance in the state’s media landscape. His departure from the Concord Monitor, as reported in 2021, was part of a broader trend of cost-cutting measures impacting local news organizations struggling to adapt to a changing media environment. The financial pressures facing local journalism continue to be a concern, as news outlets grapple with maintaining coverage in the face of dwindling resources.
A Response to the Current Political Climate
The decision to return wasn’t a planned one, Marland explained. He felt compelled to re-engage due to the increasingly divisive and, in his view, problematic political developments. “There is so much going on that needs pushback right now that I can’t keep my cartoon mouth shut any longer,” he stated. He believes that a diversity of voices opposing current policies is crucial, and sees cartoons as a powerful tool for challenging those in power. Marland’s work has always been characterized by a willingness to tackle controversial issues head-on, and his return suggests a renewed commitment to that approach.
A Long Career in New Hampshire Editorial Cartooning
Marland’s career spans decades, making him a well-known figure in New Hampshire’s media circles. He first began working with InDepthNH.org in 2017, demonstrating an early commitment to independent, online journalism. His previous work can be found online, offering a glimpse into his evolving style and consistent focus on New Hampshire politics. The challenges faced by the Concord Monitor, which led to the initial cut of his cartoons, highlight the broader difficulties facing local news organizations in maintaining editorial staff and coverage. A 2021 article in the New Hampshire Business Review detailed Marland’s initial departure, framing it as a potential end to an era in New Hampshire cartooning.
The Future of Up on the Hill
With his return to InDepthNH.org, Marland is poised to once again offer his unique perspective on the Granite State’s political landscape. His cartoons are expected to focus heavily on current events, with a particular emphasis on opposition to the policies and figures he has publicly criticized. The revival of Up on the Hill provides a platform for satirical commentary at a time when many feel a strong need for critical voices. More information about Mike Marland’s background and work can be found here.
Readers can expect the first new installments of Up on the Hill to appear soon on InDepthNH.org. Marland’s return signals a renewed energy in New Hampshire’s local political discourse, and his cartoons are likely to spark conversation and debate in the coming months. The next step for Marland is the creation and release of his first cartoon for InDepthNH.org, a date which has not yet been announced.
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