Anti-monarchists like Mickey the Mini Queen (better than the real thing)

The June 27 announcement that Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean would open the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver was greeted by some Canadians with disappointment.

Queen Elizabeth II, critics said, would bring greater international attention. I say "London Liz" is yesterday's news. Jean is an immigrant success story. Obviously Prime Minister Stephen Harper thinks she represents the Canada of today and tomorrow. The fact she's a francophone Quebecer helps. The Vancouver Games have come under too much criticism for not being French enough.

Citizens for a Canadian Republic, however, will be glad to see "Mickey the Mini Queen" do the honors.

"A good decision, given the tradition in the last two decades in Canada and Australia to have the governor general do Olympic openings," said Tom Freda, national director of Citizens for a Canadian Republic. "Having the Queen officiate would be regressive and controversial. However, royal visits are one of the few times Canadians discuss the monarchy -- and when they do, support for ending it jumps. We'll have an opportunity to do that in November when Prince Charles and Camilla visit."

A new Strategic Counsel poll found 65% of respondents were in favor of phasing out the monarchy in Canada.