N.S. energy minister apologizes after ‘harmful’ rap lyrics prompt resignation call

Nova Scotia's energy minister has apologized after misogynistic lyrics he wrote years before entering politics prompted calls for his resignation from a women's organization. Marco MacLeod, 37, said the lyrics, which contain demeaning and violent references to women, were released in 2013 under the artist name Meadowville and never generated income.

The Progressive Conservative caucus has not yet responded to a request for clarification on whether MacLeod posted the song online again in 2023. Adsum House, a shelter for women and gender-diverse individuals, has called for MacLeod's resignation, citing the lyrics as demeaning, misogynistic, and violent. The government declared intimate partner violence an epidemic in Nova Scotia in 2024, following an inquiry into a mass shooting that began with the assault of a gunman's common-law spouse.

MacLeod expressed remorse for the lyrics and said he plans to work on demonstrating his sincerity through actions, including ensuring that vulnerable people feel welcome in his office and constituency.