Alastair Campbell, a renowned activist and former spokesman for Sir Tony Blair, has expressed his concerns about the declining quality of politicians in today’s political sphere. Campbell highlighted that the harsh treatment and abuse that politicians face from society are driving young people away from entering politics.
During a session at the Edinburgh Book Festival, Campbell discussed how the current crop of politicians are generally of a lower standard compared to previous years. He emphasized that the way politicians are treated by the public plays a significant role in discouraging talented individuals from pursuing a career in politics.
Campbell acknowledged that there are still good people entering politics who have the potential to hold key positions in the government. However, he noted that the overall quality of politicians has suffered due to the negative treatment they receive. He pointed out that the abuse directed towards politicians, such as Labour minister Jess Phillips, creates a toxic environment that requires individuals to have a thick skin to withstand.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Campbell shared how he has been subjected to constant abuse, including being called a ‘war criminal’ on social media. He stressed the importance of developing resilience and empathy to navigate the challenging landscape of politics. Campbell also recounted a conversation with former SNP MP Mhairi Black, who decided not to stand for re-election due to the toxic workplace environment in Westminster.
Campbell highlighted the trend of younger politicians leaving the political scene, attributing it to the negative experiences they face in their roles. He urged for a shift in perspective towards politicians, emphasizing that not all of them should be despised. While expressing his disdain for leaders like Boris Johnson and Donald Trump, Campbell acknowledged that there are politicians from different parties whom he can work with.
In his book, ‘But What Can I Do?’, Campbell delves deeper into the complexities of politics and the challenges that politicians encounter. He encourages readers to reassess their perceptions of politicians and the impact of their actions on society.
Overall, Campbell’s insights shed light on the importance of supporting and valuing politicians, despite the criticisms they may face. By fostering a more positive and empathetic environment for politicians, we can potentially attract and retain talented individuals in the political arena.
