What compels them to do that?
Is it undertow or undertones that drag them into the maw?
Is it a noble calling, or an unfed need for power more power than mere money alone can provide?
I'm talking politics here folks and this undeniable need that some few people have for pursuing votes and the respect of their fellow citizens by pursuing public office.
Having never felt that urge, I was bereft of answers to my rhetorical queries. But I did enjoy a brief conversation with a friend regarding the potential pros and cons of seeking and then actually performing in public offices.
The fact he had never sought a vote either, had no impact on our conversation since we were approaching the subject as people who basically weren't interested in ever being elected to anything. Appointed? Well, that's another story isn't it? Who wants to be an MP if you can be a Senator?
So we floated our own trial balloons regarding the various aspects of seeking a role on a community committee versus a town or city council versus a provincial seat in the legislature versus representing a good portion of the province as a member of parliament.
I think we decided that being the MP would be the best gig, simply because it paid more.
But when you listen to MPs, it's never about the money.
So, if we accept that premise, what is it about?
Is it really about an unholy desire to exercise power and influence?
Again, elected representatives will tell us that no, of course not, it's about gaining the opportunity to represent a majority of people.
OK, let's buy that one.
Opportunity to represent people to do what?
People with money can do a lot of things. They can do bad things and good things and sometimes it comes down to doing a little bit of both.
That's about the same as the politician. A little bit of wiggle room to do some good things and then you have to do a few bad things because, after all, you're only a member of a team. Bad for Sask., good for Ontario. Yay team!
You get to go out and beg for votes. You emit promises you know you can never keep, but all's fair in love, war and election campaigns. You know they're only half believing you anyway, so you might as well go for the long pass. After you get elected, then you are afforded the opportunity to buy a few votes in the event you actually want to get re-elected. You do that by being able to deliver on some of those promises the realistic ones, not the fairy dance items. But you are only able to deliver those promises and a return on voters' investments if you garner favour within your caucus and play the role of the good soldier. Politics within the politics. It gets a bit confusing and messy I am told, but the smart ones learn how to play the game quickly, using both ends against the middle.
So hey, it could be fun. It could be interesting. It could be fruitful. Or, if you're not in the right mindset, it could be a nightmare of contradictions. It's quite complicated I have been told by those who have chased votes and been introduced to the back room wheelings and dealings.
Personally? I think I'll wait for that Senate appointment because I understand I'm not eligible to be King or even a Prime Minister. Those come by decree. I don't know what a decree is, and I'm not interested in finding out.
