What's happened
In early January 2026, Scots reflect on personal resolutions, community activism, and political satire. Janet Christie shares her informal approach to Dry January and reading, while Stephen Jardine humorously imagines Edinburgh's city resolutions. Meanwhile, Mikey Smith humorously updates on Donald Trump’s recent antics, highlighting ongoing political absurdities.
What's behind the headline?
Lighthearted resolutions and political satire define early 2026.
The articles reveal a cultural landscape where personal growth, community activism, and political satire are intertwined. Janet Christie’s focus on reading and self-improvement exemplifies a broader societal desire for positivity and reflection. Stephen Jardine’s humorous city resolutions highlight urban frustrations and aspirations, using satire to critique development and tourism.
Meanwhile, Mikey Smith’s satirical recounting of Donald Trump’s recent social media spree underscores ongoing political absurdities. His exaggerated portrayal of Trump’s late-night posts and NORAD Santa calls exposes the continued spectacle of American politics, emphasizing how political figures often blur the line between reality and performance.
This mix of humor and critique suggests that, despite global uncertainties, there is a resilient cultural tendency to find levity and meaning in everyday life and political discourse. The stories forecast a year where societal resilience will be tested but also reinforced through humor, activism, and reflection. The emphasis on community and satire indicates a collective effort to navigate and critique the political landscape while maintaining personal and cultural optimism.
What the papers say
The Scotsman’s articles by Janet Christie and Stephen Jardine offer a personal and humorous take on New Year’s resolutions, emphasizing community and cultural reflections. Mikey Smith’s piece in The Mirror provides a satirical overview of Donald Trump’s recent social media antics, highlighting ongoing political absurdities. The contrasting tones—lighthearted personal reflections versus sharp political satire—illustrate the diverse ways society is engaging with the start of 2026. While Christie and Jardine focus on local and personal resolutions, Smith’s satire underscores the persistent spectacle of American politics, making the stories relevant both culturally and politically.
How we got here
The articles from early January 2026 depict a mix of personal reflections, community activism, and political satire. Janet Christie discusses her informal resolutions and cultural plans, Stephen Jardine humorously imagines Edinburgh’s city resolutions, and Mikey Smith provides a satirical update on Donald Trump’s recent social media outbursts. These stories reflect a broader cultural mood of optimism, humor, and political critique at the start of the new year.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Are Edinburgh's Quirkiest New Year Resolutions for 2026?
As Edinburgh steps into 2026, locals are embracing humor and creativity with their New Year resolutions. From playful jabs at city life to humorous ideas for community improvement, these resolutions reflect the city's unique character. Curious about what Edinburgh's residents are planning for a fun and quirky year ahead? Below, we explore some of the most amusing and imaginative resolutions shaping Edinburgh's 2026 landscape.
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What Are the Top New Year’s Resolutions and Political Satire Trends in 2026?
As 2026 kicks off, people are embracing new personal goals while society continues to reflect on political humor and satire. From lighthearted resolutions to sharp political commentary, this year’s headlines reveal how individuals and communities are engaging with the new year. Curious about what resolutions are trending, how cities and politicians are participating, and what humor says about current politics? Keep reading for insights into 2026’s cultural landscape.
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