With high media coverage of almost every action taken by high profile politicians, it is easy to see the varying reactions to different incidents and decisions. While we can always see a difference between public opinion and the opinions of politicians, what is arguably more interesting is the different standards that politicians are held to.
For example, many look to President Biden and see him almost as a saint, regardless of his lack of action after a multitude of promises, such as his statements about stimulus cheques and human rights. Biden’s commitment to supply every American with a $2000 Covid-19 relief cheque has not been upheld, nor have his promises to not allow a single person to be deported within his first 100 days as president. According to United We Dream, Biden has deported at least 26,248 people since becoming President. He is, however, still firmly placed on a pedestal by millions across the globe. This has been said to be because he merely isn’t Donald Trump. Of course, being relieved of the constant anguish that was Trump’s presidency is bound to leave people eager to believe that competency in a debate makes someone suitable for office even without responsibility or accountability, which remains unacceptable and harmful.
This situation seems to be the same when it comes to UK political figures like Labour leader Kier Starmer, who has made many distasteful statements, such as, calling the Black Lives Matter movement a “moment”, breaking down the Labour party and replacing most of it with right-wing MPs, as well as forcing Labour MPs to abstain from the vote on flawed tier systems in the UK. His statements and actions have been harmful to the Labour party, and have limited the number of voters willing to support them, damaging the country by decreasing the likelihood of opposing the Tory government in the next general election. This may be due to the very simple fact that he isn’t Boris Johnson, who has gained a hugely negative reputation with British people, for the many mistakes he has made, particularly when dealing with the pandemic. It seems that people will worship anyone who isn’t the most hated individual in any scenario, which removes the possibility of them being held accountable for the negative actions they have taken.
Written by Kate Hopwood
Artwork by Zara Masood
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