Editorial Cartoonist Steve Benson dies at 71

From the Arizona Mirror. 

Steve Benson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on American politics, has died at the age of 71.

After being laid off by The Arizona Republic in 2019, Benson joined the Arizona Mirror, shortly after the nonprofit digital news outlet launched. 

He continued to produce thought-provoking cartoons for the Mirror until his retirement in 2024, capping off a remarkable career that spanned nearly half a century.

In spring 2024, Benson suffered a stroke, from which he never recovered.

Throughout his career, Benson’s work appeared in publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, and Time magazine. 

He was a two-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in addition to his win, and received numerous other accolades, including multiple Best Editorial Cartoonist awards from the National Cartoonists Society.

Benson was known for his unflinching approach to political commentary, taking aim at figures across the political spectrum. 

His cartoons often sparked controversy, but he remained committed to his craft, once saying, “If I’m not provoking a reaction, I’m not doing my job.”

In addition to his work as a cartoonist, Benson was an accomplished public speaker and educator, frequently giving lectures on political cartooning and free speech at universities and conferences across the country.

In 2020, Benson married Claire Ferguson, marking a new chapter in his life. He is survived by Claire, his children and grandchildren.